By If you’re looking for a new Black owned oyster bar in Oakland – get ready. Oakland’s culinary scene has been enriched by the arrival of The Cook and Her Farmer, a charming café, oyster bar, and wine destination located at 907F Washington St in Swan’s Marketplace. The restaurant is the brainchild of Romney Nani Steele, a renowned cookbook author, and her partner, Steve Day, an oyster expert and farmer. With their combined expertise and passion for exceptional food, they have created a unique dining experience that celebrates the flavors of California with a touch of Southern influence.
Romney Steele’s culinary journey began at a young age, growing up in the legendary Nepenthe restaurant in Big Sur, which was established by her grandparents in 1949. Immersed in the world of food, she developed a deep appreciation for fresh, seasonal ingredients and the art of cooking. As a writer, she has contributed articles and recipes to esteemed national magazines like Bon Appétit and Saveur. Steele has even authored two cookbooks, “My Nepenthe” and “Plum Gorgeous,” further establishing her culinary prowess.
Steve Day, on the other hand, brings a wealth of experience in farming and education to The Cook and Her Farmer. Originally from Chicago and raised in Memphis, he has called Oakland home since the mid-1990s. Day has dedicated his career to mentoring at-risk youth and youth offenders, and he currently teaches at the Oakland Unified School District. Additionally, his remarkable work as a volunteer recovery diver for the Alameda County Sheriff’s Department was recognized in DIVER magazine in 2018. Day’s commitment to fostering relationships with Oakland’s youth through farming has been instrumental in shaping the restaurant’s mission.
The partnership between Steele and Day was solidified during their time working together on a community oyster farm in Marshall, California. Their experience involved learning all aspects of oyster farming, from seeding to cultivation. Inspired by their shared passion for sustainable and locally sourced food, they decided to combine their expertise and open a restaurant at the historic Swan’s Market in Old Oakland.
The Cook and Her Farmer offer an exquisite dining experience where guests can indulge in a diverse array of delectable treats. From the delightful freshly baked scones to a selection of other enticing options, visitors can relish the flavors alongside a perfect cup of De La Paz coffee. The lunch menu is a culinary delight, boasting a variety of salads, sandwiches (including an irresistible fried po’boy special), grilled flatbreads, and Chef Steele’s personal favorites. Among these favorites is a pickle plate that showcases her unwavering passion for the art of pickling and canning.
For dinner, The Cook and Her Farmer embrace a California soul food attitude, featuring rotating dishes like black-eyed peas and ham hocks, gumbo, fried catfish, and flat-iron steak. Complementing the culinary delights, the restaurant offers an impressive selection of California wines, with an emphasis on biodynamic and natural options from both Europe and local vineyards. Craft beer enthusiasts will also appreciate the three beers on tap, including choices from the renowned Linden Street Brewery.
The restaurant’s ambiance exudes a relaxed and casual vibe, where guests can order at the counter and find seating at a custom-built redwood communal table or at the 16 counter seats. There is also additional seating available in the marketplace’s communal space, providing ample room for diners to enjoy their culinary experience.
About the Author
Montana Gabrielle Hooks is a SF Bay Area Realtor in the East Bay. Local entrepreneurship, playing bass guitar, and singing live karaoke are a few of her favorite things. She serves on the Young Realtists Division, Oakland board is a member of the Associated Real Property Brokers. Follow her on Instagram or learn more about her on her website.
