Behind every great restaurant is a story of passion, resilience, and family – and Weyanti Ahmed’s Y’s Choice is a testament to that culinary magic.

Nestled on San Pablo Avenue, this soul food spot isn’t just another Oakland eatery; it’s a love letter to Ahmed’s multicultural roots and her mother’s kitchen wisdom. Born in Sudan and raised in West Oakland, Ahmed transformed her lifelong cooking hobby into a thriving business that celebrates diversity through food.

A Taste of Heritage

Ahmed’s journey isn’t your typical restaurateur story. A former nurse and single mom of five, she spent years cooking for her family before her children convinced her that her home cooking was restaurant-worthy. The result? A menu that’s as eclectic as Oakland itself – think Habesha-influenced comfort food meets Halal burgers, a delicious nod to her Sudanese and Turkish heritage.

More Than Just a Meal

What makes Y’s Choice special isn’t just the food – it’s the family legacy. A radiant mural of Ahmed’s mother, Hiwot, watches over the dining room, while her daughters Kylah and Niajah help run the business. It’s a multigenerational celebration of culinary passion that turns every meal into a personal story.

Oakland’s Culinary Renaissance

Ahmed sees her restaurant as part of Oakland’s broader food renaissance. With the city recently ranked number-one for cuisine by Condé Nast, Y’s Choice represents the vibrant, diverse culinary landscape that makes Oakland special. From garlic noodles to braised oxtails, every dish tells a story of community, creativity, and connection.