Mägo - Oakland

Food was phenomenal, but service is knocking my review down a star. We arrived for an 8:30 pm reservation for a birthday dinner, and were informed that our table was unavailable because the previous party was late. This has never happened to us at ANY restaurant, ever. We were offered either bar seating or the patio, and opted for the patio, which was more secluded but?definitely a very average patio. Although the initial experience was sour, the food was almost enough to make up for it. Every course was so unique, filled with wonderful flavors and textures. Highlights were the apple ceviche with a maple leaf cookie, the super tender pork main course, and the frozen arequipe. The arequipe in particular is a dessert I will remember for a really long time ? the perfectly balanced apple compote with the creamy dulce de leche semifreddo, topped with a delicate crunchy wafer. Overall, would definitely recommend this place for the food, but the ambience and service was certainly lacking and needs work.

The menu rotates so no point calling out specific dishes. Everything was beautifully balanced and portioned. Service was very friendly and warm. I asked them to slow down service so I could enjoy each course and they happily obliged. Left feeling satisfied but not too full. Ask for table 16 at the chef's table so you can people watch. Definitely go for the beverage pairing menu.

It was my first time having a tasting menu, but mago did not disappoint. It is not your traditional Colombian dish, but the chefs take their dishes to another level. Everything on the tasting menu was different. The presentation was well executed and the flavors and ingredients were both fresh and flavorful. We also tried the nonalcoholic drinks and if those were excellent, im sure their cocktails are to die for. Overall, such a great experience.

The people at Mägo just get it. One of the best meals I've ever had in Oakland. We'll be dreaming of the Pickled Mackerel Caesar Salad forever. Not only that, but every dish one upped the one that came before it. Many of the items cooked on this charcoal grill that you see them cooking in front of you. The entire staff, from chef to server were world class people. It was such an awesome experience. My partner has an allergy to Strawberry and not only did they accommodate for that in one of the desserts, but she argued that it was probably better tasting than the strawberry version. I tasted both, she was wrong, but pick your battles, right? I cannot wait to come back. Also the cocktail I got was so freaking good. All in all, the best time to go to this restaurant was yesterday, the second best time is today. If you can, go.

Amazing food and drinks. They change their tasting menu daily! Food was fresh, unique, and I love how the chef incorporates seasonal vegetables. A new favorite spot.