Location: Hayward
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California, United States Food Guide: 10 American food Must-Eat Restaurants & Street Food Stalls in Hayward
Find out what American restaurants to try in Hayward. Hayward (/ˈheɪwərd/; formerly, Haywards, Haywards Station, and Haywood) is a city located in Alameda County, California in the East Bay subregion of the San Francisco Bay Area. With a 2014 population of 149,392, Hayward is the sixth largest city in the Bay Area and the third largest in Alameda County. Hayward was ranked as the 37th most populous municipality in California. It is included in the San Francisco–Oakland–Fremont Metropolitan Statistical Area by the US Census. It is located primarily between Castro Valley and Union City, and lies at the eastern terminus of the San Mateo–Hayward Bridge. The city was devastated early in its history by the 1868 Hayward earthquake. From the early 20th century until the beginning of the 1980s, Hayward's economy was dominated by its now defunct food canning and salt production industries.
Things to do in Hayward
10. Famous Dave's Bar-B-Que
Overall Ratings
3 based on 57 reviews
Reviewed By Wendy W
The Smoked Ribs, pulled pork and barbeque Chicken were awesome. I felt sorry for the waiter he was the only one serving. Its to bad that the sides weren't as good a the meats. The corn was soggy, the coleslaw had no taste and the beans were flat.Their bbq chips were good but cold.
9. Amy's Grill and Cafe
Overall Ratings
4 based on 15 reviews
Reviewed By SR-1007
I tested Amyâs with my standard breakfast challenge of French toast and over medium eggs. All were prepared perfectly. I munched my wifeâs hash browns too and they were crispy-good. Friendly and helpful people. Needs to have more seating but this is a hidden gem.
8. Black Bear Diner
Overall Ratings
3 based on 49 reviews
The Black Bear Diner in Hayward knows exactly what youâre looking for in a restaurant â great service, tasty food, and reasonable prices. You might say thatâs the trifecta of a good meal, and we happen to agree. We invite you to visit our diner and see fo
Reviewed By AnnArborMiBob
This restaurant is part of a chain, and has a bit of a country store atmosphere (though it is not really that in the sense of a Cracker Barrel). My wife and I dined here on our way to visit the Winchester Mystery House in San Jose, and got good, well prepared meals that filled us up. The waitperson was attentive to my wife's dietary restrictions (gluten and dairy) and made certain they were addressed when her meal was prepared.We did have a bit of a wait to get in, and the accompanying photos show how we spent the time.
7. Elephant Bar Restaurant
Overall Ratings
4 based on 69 reviews
Elephant Bar Restaurant is a scratch-kitchen specializing in globally-inspired dishes and traditional, American fare. Our food is all made from scratch using the best, locally-sourced ingredients available. All of our cocktails are made fresh when you ord
Reviewed By DGLION
We didn't use bar, nor did we order non vegetarian food. So our experience is based on vegetarian food only. At the outset, we must appreciate the excellent service and personal attention of the staff. One Mr Carlos served us. We started with Nachos for our family of 5. We ordered Yaki Soba noodles, which were a bit salty. The Parmesan Green beans were also good, and garlic bread as side dish completed our dinner order.The quantity was adequate. They have vast space and nice ambience to complement the experience.
6. Emil Villa's Hickory Pit
Overall Ratings
4 based on 59 reviews
Reviewed By FD B
Great BBQ and their coleslaw and other accouterments are good too--biggest serving of coleslaw I've ever had. Ambiance is tired, seems like they haven't upgraded the decor for a few decades. Service excellent on my most recent visit, and prices are in line.
5. Doug's Place
Overall Ratings
4 based on 119 reviews
Reviewed By Bryana M
Very packed so you were sitting close to the other tables but I don't mind it. They get you your meal in minutes, walked in with a hangover, walked out with a happy tummy.
4. Neumanali
Overall Ratings
4 based on 45 reviews
Reviewed By Chelle W
We had a reservation and were seated immediately. Our host, Arban, was also our waiter and the only employee we saw. He had 9 tables and didn't miss a beat. Constantly refilling the water glasses, brought my wine right away. When our meal arrived it was beautiful, and both our dishes were tasted great. I had the filet mignon and my husband had the grilled chicken. It is a little more money than we usually spend when we go out, but it was worth every dime.
3. The Cannery Cafe
Overall Ratings
4 based on 32 reviews
Reviewed By DianahR_12
At first we weren't sure how to sit/order. You stand in line, cafeteria like, and place your order. It tends to get really busy so you have to stand around and almost hover near tables to get a seat. Food was great though and coffee was amazing. They also have wine, beer and champagne. Last time we went the had a Monte cristo special. It was amazing so if they have It, order it!
2. Buffalo Bills
Overall Ratings
4 based on 214 reviews
Reviewed By Weglarz
As far as Hayward goes, this place is a great option. Convenient downtown location. Food and beer were okay and not too pricey. Half sandwich and soup at lunch for $15. Pretty standard brew pub fare. Lots of space for larger parties and outdoor seating for those hot summer days.
1. Val's Burgers
Overall Ratings
4 based on 299 reviews
Reviewed By sutrotower
How did I not know about this place growing up in the city next to Hayward! My mom said she used to have my dad go get Val Hamburgers when she was pregnant with me. Cravings! Well, I have grown children now, and this is the first i had heard of this place from her! She wanted to take my grown son here as he likes hamburgers. All I can say is they were absolutely awesome hamburgers! i got the mama burger and it was plenty big. The papa was 2 BIG patties and it was very large I split a strawberry shake with my son and I don't even like strawberry shakes.... I'm a vanilla person.... but this strawberry shake was very good! Fries are the big steak fries and they were good too, but I do enjoy skinnier fries better, but the fries were still good. Impressive place, loved the history and all the employees we came in contact with were so nice. When I find myself in the bay area again, I'd definitely come back! In fact, looking forward to that.
Where to eat Italian food in Hayward: The Best Restaurants and Bars
