Seemor
BattambangA-Worth Trying
850 Broadway, Oakland, CA 94607
· Cambodian restaurant, Asian restaurant, Restaurant
· 4.6/5 Google (415 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout
Beloved Cambodian standby in Oakland Chinatown serving soulful classics like smoked eggplant, Battambang noodles, and amok with warm, fast service and fair prices; expect street parking and a modest dining room.
Why it gets an A- for overall quality
Battambang earns its A- grade through exceptional food quality anchored by signature dishes like smoked eggplant and amok, paired with warm, attentive service and quick pacing. The modest, dated setting and occasional consistency variations prevent grade A territory, but this Chinatown stalwart delivers authentic, comforting Cambodian cooking with genuine hospitality and strong value—a reliable neighborhood favorite worth seeking out.
Restaurant Summary
A cozy Chinatown stalwart where the room feels warm and welcoming and plates land fast. Guests describe service as genuinely caring with tea refills and guidance on what to try. One diner said it felt like a home-cooked meal shared with family. The cooking leans traditional Cambodian: fragrant lemongrass broths, coconut curries, and the much-loved smoked eggplant. Noodles in tamarind-peanut sauce and silky amok hit that savory-sour balance without heavy heat. Expect hearty portions, straightforward plating, and a focus on comforting flavors over flash. Families do well here. Kids tend to like the Battambang noodles, fried rice, and mild curries; spice can be adjusted. Vegetarian and vegan-friendly choices exist across tofu curries and noodle dishes, though seafood and pork-shrimp combos are common—scan the menu for the simpler noodle and rice options if you have picky eaters.
At a Glance
- Signature smoked eggplant, amok, and curries deliver deep, comforting flavors
- Warm, attentive service with quick pacing and frequent tea refills
- Good value for generous portions and multi-item combos
- Street parking is limited; avoid leaving valuables in cars
- Modest, dated decor focused on food over ambiance
What Sets It Apart
- signature_smoked_eggplant
- warm_owner_hospitality
- traditional_cambodian_specialties
What People Love
- Smoky, tender eggplant unlike anywhere else
- Silky, aromatic amok steamed in banana leaf
- Friendly owner who offers thoughtful recommendations
- Large portions that feel like a great deal
- Fast service that keeps the meal relaxed
Points of Concern
- Parking can be difficult and street-only with time limits
- Decor is basic and a bit dated; ambiance is secondary
- Occasional dish inconsistency (dry lemongrass pork, sweetness level in coconut soup)
- Delivery orders may face portion confusion through third-party apps
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$35-48 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Pair smoked eggplant with Battambang noodles to balance smoky richness and tangy-sweet noodles
- Add a side of rice for coconut-based soups to manage sweetness and make it meal-worthy
Perfect For
- Craving Cambodian comfort dishes
- Casual dinners with friends
- Solo quick-but-satisfying meals
- Introducing someone to Southeast Asian flavors
Location Insights
Area: Dense urban Chinatown corridor with small businesses, busy sidewalks, and casual eateries popular with locals and visitors.
Safety: Generally busy and fine, though petty theft risk; diners advise not leaving valuables in cars.
Nearby: Surrounded by Chinese and Southeast Asian shops, near downtown offices and BART within walking distance.
UptownThe dining scene in Uptown is eclectic and dynamic, featuring a mix of casual eateries, upscale restaurants, and bars. The area is lively in the evenings with a social atmosphere that appeals to a creative and diverse crowd. It is generally considered safe and accessible, with a focus on innovative and multicultural cuisine.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:00–20:00
Tuesday11:00–20:00
Wednesday11:00–20:00
Thursday11:00–20:00
Friday11:00–20:00
Saturday11:00–20:00
Sunday
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout
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