Oakland has always been a city of gathering. From the jazz clubs on Seventh Street to the barbershops on Telegraph, Black Oakland has always known that the real work happens when people come together over something warm.
But somewhere along the way, Uptown started losing its spaces. The places where you could sit for an hour, run into a neighbor, and leave feeling more connected than when you walked in — they started disappearing.
The Gap We Saw
When we looked at Uptown Oakland, we saw world-class restaurants, trendy bars, and plenty of places to grab a quick espresso. What we didn't see was a place that felt like it belonged to the community. A place where a morning coffee could turn into a two-hour conversation. Where an evening glass of wine wasn't about being seen — it was about being known.
That's the gap Kinfolx was built to fill.
More Than a Coffee Shop
Kinfolx is a Black-owned coffee shop in Oakland — and it's so much more than that. We're a morning ritual for the 7:30 AM regulars who come in before the commute. We're a midday reset for remote workers who need a change of scenery. And we're an evening destination for the wine-curious who want to explore without pretension.
At 1951 Telegraph Ave, we've created a dual-concept space that serves the community from open to close. La Marzocca espresso in the morning. Curated wines from Black producers in the evening. And community energy all day long.
What Gathering Means to Us
Every decision we make at Kinfolx comes back to one question: does this bring people together?
That's why our menu is approachable but never boring. It's why our wine program highlights producers who look like us. It's why we host community events — not because events drive revenue, but because gathering is the whole point.
Oakland's Living Room
We call Kinfolx "Oakland's living room" because that's exactly what it is. The couch is communal. The music sets the mood. The Wi-Fi works. And everyone is welcome.
Whether you're a lifelong Oaklander or just discovering Uptown, there's a seat at Kinfolx with your name on it. Come as you are, stay as long as you'd like, and leave knowing you're part of something real.
Kinfolx is located at 1951 Telegraph Ave, Ste 4, in Uptown Oakland. Open Monday–Friday 7:30 AM–5 PM, Saturday 8:30 AM–4:30 PM, Sunday 8:30 AM–4 PM. Check our menu or shop online.
