The Way South

By OtownEater

Those who grew up in Oakland may fondly remember the always consistent, family friendly restaurant, The Cantina, which was a household staple on the short, Glenview strip of Park Blvd.   When The Cantina closed, it seemed certain to the watchful Oakland foodie that this gigantic and well placed restaurant space would be doomed to failure.  Through my high school and college days, I endured sharp pangs of bitterness every time I would pass Los Compadres, the pathetic excuse of a taqueria that attempted to replace the glory that was once La Cantina. And then there were the years of boarded up windows, and blank name marquees.  At one point, I inquired to the status of the vacant space, in order to encourage a restaurateur friend of mine to open a “gastro-pub” restaurant with an eclectic, varied menu in both style of food and price (which Oakland still needs by the way).  This is when I heard an intriguing rumor, that the owner of Oakland establishment, A Cote, was in the works to open a Latin inspired alternative to his already successful French small plate fare.  Eagerly I awaited the opening of Rumbo Al Sur, and have been a regular sense they opened their doors.

While the ambience alone is enough to draw in the curious diner, the bar offers an alluring choice of cocktails and the frequently changing menu always introduces a dozen or so tempting dishes.  Rumbo Al Sur’s fare is inspired by cuisine from Central and South America, with a modern, elegant twist.  Share a bowl of the menu’s current mussel offering (such as Mussels Moqueca with Tomatoes, Coconut Milk, Cilantro & Malagueta Peppers).  Try a Chiles Relleno with house made ricotta, peas, asparagus, fava and salsa. Or sample a Peruvian specialty, Lomo Saltado (Seared Flat Iron Steak with Tomatoes, Red Onions, Aji Amarillo & Fries).  While portions may be considered “small plates,” Rumbo serves generous portions which one might enjoy individually or a few dishes shared with a friend.  I have never left hungry or feeling like I just paid too much for a tiny morsel of food!  Each dish is thoughtfully executed, with flavors that are consistently delicious.  I sometime wish the food was a bit spicier, but they make their own hot sauce which seems to go well on everything.  So if you enjoy a tingle on your taste buds, ask for a side of the hot sauce!  I even recommend saving room for dessert, as they do a great job satisfying the sweet tooth.  The Copa del Rumbo (Mexican chocolate ice cream, hot fudge, dulce de leche, vanilla bean cream, pecan crunch & caramelitas) really hit the spot!

Rumbo has a casual elegance that makes it a perfect place for any occasion, with any company.  So, call up some friends, impress out-of-towners, or make it a date night, and definitely enjoy your dining experience at Rumbo Al Sur!

Summary

Rumbo Al Sur
4239 Park Blvd
Oakland, CA 94602

Hours: Tue-Thu, Sun 5:30 pm – 10 pm; Fri-Sat 5:30 pm – 11 pm
Average Entrée Price: $12-16
Expected Wait: 0-30 min. (weekend evenings can get crowded)