Oakwood Hills, tucked away in Hollywood, FL, is not just a tranquil residential neighborhood—it’s also a culinary treasure trove waiting to be explored. While it might not have the flashy renown of downtown Hollywood or the Broadwalk, Oakwood Hills delights locals with its cluster of hidden gems, family-run eateries, and a dining culture blending old Florida charm and global flavors. Whether you’re a coffee aficionado, a passionate foodie, or just want a relaxed bite after a stroll in nearby Oakwood Plaza, here’s where to eat, sip, and savor in Oakwood Hills.
The Pulse of Oakwood Hills: Where Food Lovers Gather
Nestled near the intersection of Sheridan Street and North Park Road, Oakwood Hills benefits from its proximity to bustling commercial areas while maintaining a neighborhood feel. This crossroads is where much of the food action begins, with options spanning every craving and budget.
Standout Restaurants: Local Flavor and Global Flair
*Osteria de Hollywood (Sheridan St & N Park Rd)*
For lovers of Italian cuisine, Osteria de Hollywood is a must. Here, the warm ambiance is matched only by their stellar homemade pastas and wood-fired pizzas, with prices ranging from $15–$30 per entrée. Their truffle risotto and classic margherita are especially popular, and the sprawling patio turns any evening into a soulful experience.
*Las Vegas Cuban Cuisine (Oakwood Blvd near N 29th Ave)*
Hidden in plain sight near Oakwood Plaza, this family-owned Cuban spot is a pillar of the local dining scene. Plates of ropa vieja, crispy pork chunks, and creamy flan draw regulars who crave authentic, hearty meals at affordable prices ($12–$20 per dish). Don’t miss the complimentary plantain chips and the vibrant mojitos.
*Bamboo Asian Bistro (Oakwood Blvd)*
This sleek Asian-fusion eatery makes Oakwood Hills the go-to spot for sushi, Thai curry, and inventive small plates. Besides the beautiful interior, prices are reasonable with lunch specials under $15 and flavor-packed dinner entrees topping out at around $24. Their Bamboo Roll and spicy drunken noodles never disappoint.
Casual Eats & Takeout Favorites
*Pita Plus (Sheridan St & 29th Ave)*
Serving up Mediterranean favorites, this casual counter-serve restaurant specializes in shawarma, falafel, and pita sandwiches dripping with homemade tahini. A quick lunch runs under $10, making it a favorite for weekday office workers and local families. Fresh salads and hearty plates keep the health-conscious happy.
*J28 Sandwich Bar (Oakwood Blvd, inside Oakwood Plaza)*
This Peruvian sandwich shop is a cult favorite for its pan con chicharrón—crispy pork belly served on soft rolls. Don’t overlook their lomo saltado sandwich or ice-cold chicha morada. Most items fall within the $9–$15 range. It’s the ultimate hidden gem for an adventurous lunch.
*Screaming Carrots (Sheridan St at N Park Rd)*
Plant-based dining gets a twist at Screaming Carrots, a vegan eatery beloved even by carnivores. Their globally inspired menu features jackfruit burgers, udon noodle bowls, and gluten-free tiramisu, with mains ranging from $13 to $18. It’s a bright, eco-friendly environment for health-driven diners.
Quintessential Cafés and Bakeries
*Vicky Bakery (Oakwood Blvd)*
This South Florida Cuban bakery chain draws morning crowds for their flaky pastelitos, strong café cubano, and pork-stuffed medianoche sandwiches. Most items are $3–$8, making it perfect for breakfast on-the-go or a sweet afternoon treat.
*Croissan’Time (Sheridan St between N 28th Ave & N 29th Ave)*
A tucked-away gem, Croissan’Time offers a taste of France with buttery croissants, fruit tarts, and artisan breads. Every pastry is made fresh daily, with prices under $10. Sip an espresso on their cozy sidewalk tables and watch the neighborhood go by.
Food Trucks and Pop-up Culture
On weeknights and weekends, the parking lots near Oakwood Plaza and along Sheridan Street feature a rotating cast of food trucks. Taco Loco serves up authentic street tacos for $3 a piece, while Mama’s Arepas offers Colombian arepas and empanadas filled with gooey cheese and spiced meat. These mobile kitchens keep the culinary landscape fresh, and you’ll often find live music or DJ sets on weekend evenings, turning curbside dining into a community event.
Iconic Local Food Traditions
Oakwood Hills stands out for its relaxed, come-as-you-are dining culture. Several restaurants participate in Hollywood’s annual “Eat Local Month,” offering special prix-fixe menus, while local bakeries supply treats for seasonal festivals held in nearby parks. The infusion of Caribbean, Latin American, and Mediterranean flavors honors the community’s diversity, with family recipes passed down through generations.
Best Streets to Explore Oakwood Hills’ Eats
- Sheridan Street (between N Park Rd and 29th Ave): The main drag for cafés, casual eats, and bakeries, all walkable and bustling during lunch hours.
- Oakwood Blvd (stretching past Oakwood Plaza): A haven for sit-down international restaurants, sandwich shops, and food trucks.
- N Park Rd: Anchored by a mix of diners, vegan hotspots, and specialty coffee houses, this street is perfect for those eager to branch out.
Hidden Gems Not to Miss
*The Little Greek* (Sheridan St & N 28th Ave): This underrated spot does honest, flavorful Greek classics—moussaka, spanakopita, and creamy tzatziki always hit the spot, $10–$18 per meal.
*Rise & Grind Espresso Bar* (Sheridan St): This indie cafe wins hearts with small-batch coffee, iced matcha, and locally sourced pastries. It’s a favorite remote work haven for digital nomads and students alike.
Why Oakwood Hills?
What makes the Oakwood Hills food scene special isn’t just its diversity of flavors or the affordable indulgences—it’s the warm, neighborhood spirit. Almost every spot is run by people who live nearby, ready to chat about their dishes and make you feel at home. Stick around long enough, and you’ll feel like a regular, whether grabbing a morning cortadito, indulging in sushi, or catching a sunset food truck festival.
For a taste of Hollywood that goes beyond the tourist map, make Oakwood Hills your next culinary stop. Every visit promises something new—and always delicious!