Hello dear
Welcome to Asena
At Asena, located in the heart of Alameda, culinary passion converges with Mediterranean tradition, especially from Turkey. With a cozy, rustic ambiance and a welcoming staff, this gem offers a delightful dining experience, whether indoors or in the charming outdoor seating area. Guests rave about their creative mezze, like roasted yams drizzled with local honey, and heartwarming entrees such as house-made gnocchi and crispy polenta Napoleon. Asena’s commitment to fresh flavors and attentive service creates a familiar charm that keeps patrons returning. From casual dinners to special celebrations, Asena embodies a vibrant culinary adventure that leaves an indelible mark on every visitor.
Today's Suggestions
Explore the featured selections!
Roasted Sweet Yams, Caramelized Walnuts, Danish Bleu, Local Honey Drizzle
Todays Soup By The Cup
Fresh Seafood Of The Day Market Price
Paella With Chicken, Linguica, Mediterranean Mussels, Prawns, Leeks, Peppers, Saffron, Rice
About
Asena
Welcome to Asena, an inviting gem located at 2508 Santa Clara Ave in Alameda, CA. Known for its delicious Mediterranean-inspired dishes rooted in Turkish heritage, Asena offers a vibrant dining experience complete with an intimate atmosphere and a charming backyard perfect for al fresco dining.
As you step inside, you are enveloped in a warm, cozy ambiance that encourages leisurely meals, ideal for both special occasions and casual dinners. The delightful scent of fresh Mediterranean fare wafts through the air, setting the stage for a memorable culinary adventure.
Asena's menu proudly showcases an impressive selection of mezzes perfect for sharing. Must-try options include:
- Roasted Sweet Yams with Caramelized Walnuts, complemented by a drizzle of local honey - a sweet and savory delight for only $11.00.
- Warm Burrata in Plum Tomato Sauce paired with fresh basil for $14.00—an experience that melts in your mouth.
- Oven-Roasted Garlic on Onion-Turmeric Bread with Gorgonzola, priced at $10.00, is a must for garlic lovers.
Moreover, don't miss their house-made hummus with linguica, served with Asena’s signature flatbread, priced at $12.00—making for a rich, flavorful pairing.
As for salads and soups, the Mixed Greens with Warm Chevre and Toasted Walnuts drizzled with sherry vinaigrette is refreshing and satisfying at $13.00. For heartier options, consider the House-Made Gnocchi with roasted yams and crispy kale at $20.00—a wholesome dish that speaks comfort and craftsmanship.
Entrees at Asena are prepared with precision, showcasing flavors that speak to both tradition and innovation. The Petaluma Chicken Breast stuffed with mushrooms and shallots in a port wine sauce at $24.00 is a standout. Additionally, the Kabocha Squash Ravioli with sage butter offers a seasonal twist for $21.00.
As a highlight from guest reviews, food enthusiast Maurice Ramirez described Asena as “a place for very fresh Mediterranean coastal lighter fare,” while Arthur noted the excellence of the Parma prosciutto wrapped asparagus and the culinary artistry behind dishes like the whole Italian eggplant with lamb, describing it as “perfection on a plate.”
Asena is more than just a restaurant; it’s an experience that marries community and exceptional cuisine. The friendly staff adds to the ambiance, ensuring every guest feels welcome and valued. Whether enjoying a meal indoors or soaking in the buzz of the outdoor seating area, Asena guarantees a restaurant experience that lingers delightfully in your memory. Make sure to visit for a delightful dining experience that embodies the essence of Mediterranean cuisine!
People talk
Our Guestbook
“ I explored many Alameda eateries and photographed a few of Asenas highlights during Restaurant Week. I loved the closeness and intimate atmosphere, and these are the coolest dishes I saw. They serve very fresh Mediterranean coastal lighter fare, and theres a great backyard. It feels friendly and familiar. ”
“ Just when I thought my Friday evening stroll through the Island of Alameda couldnt get any better, I stumbled upon Asena, a Mediterranean restaurant with their roots from Turkey! I started my culinary adventure with their housemade bread paired with a delightful balsamic and olive oil dip. The Parma prosciutto wrapped asparagus was a flavorful and indulgent appetizer, setting the tone for what was to come. For the main course, I opted for the whole Italian eggplant with lamb, Gruyere, and Marsala demiglace, and let me tell you, it was perfection on a plate! The flavors melded together beautifully, and each bite was a symphony of taste. To top it all off, I indulged in their blood orange cheesecake with a pomegranate reduction. It was the perfect sweet ending to a fantastic meal. And lets not forget the serviceextraordinary doesnt even begin to describe it! The staff was attentive, friendly, and made me feel right at home. Overall, Asena is a hidden gem in Alameda that should not be missed. 1010, would dine again! GRUBLYFE ”
“ An Alameda institution, weve been coming to Asena for over a decade, typically for special occasions. Their restaurant space is compact, but cozy and homely. There is a small ally adjacent to the main dining room for outdoor seating with lightly romantic ambiance. Their food is wonderful. Our favorite was the perfectly cooked salmon and warm freshly baked bread! Over the years, weve found certain dishes to be more salty than wed prefer, but our comments were happily taken and future adjustments were always accommodated. The owner and staff is always friendly, courteous, and prompt. Give Asena a visit for a nice dinner or for that special celebration! ”
“ We had an early dinner on a weekday evening. The entrees were varied, excellently prepared, full flavored, beautiful. and delicious. I enjoyed a novel cider from Denver. The desserts were not as unique but delicious and beautiful nonetheless. The ambiance was such that we talked until quite late and were accommodated easily. ”
“ Delicious food and great cocktails! One of the best upscale Mediterranean restaurants in the Bay Area! The staff was super courteous and nice, their service was quick too in spite of running full house. We had the Ribeye Steak and Eggplant stuffed with minced Lamb topped with demiglaze ahh! So satisfying! It was my birthday and they also gave us a complimentary Pana Cotta! It is now one of our goto places for sure. ”
“ Very good main dish salmon raviolis in lemon cream sauce and sides. So many delicious dishes to choose from! The only negative was the blood orange cheesecake. The flavor was excellent, but texture was rubbery, like it had been sitting around awhile. The entire top layer slipped off.... ”
“ Wow. Id go back for the service alone. This place came highly recommended and it didnt disappoint. The duck ravioli and paella were out of this world. Asparagus soup and lamb filled mushroom caps were phenomenal. Im going back. ”
“ Fabulous dinner at a family owned 15 years. What a gem. Great food and good service. Will return ”