San Francisco Bay Oakland International Airport offers 16 new restaurants and 12 shops with a strong East Bay flair

OAKLAND, Calif. (KGO) — Tamara and her friend are spending their birthday weekend in Mexico. Before they get on the plane, they get a coffee. But they don’t want to go to a chain store.

“Because it’s close. It’s an Oakland cafe in the Oakland airport. I don’t go to a chain,” said Tamara, who only wanted to give her first name.

Oaklandish Coffee Collective is one of many new shops opening at San Francisco Bay Oakland International Airport (OAK), selling coffee from local roasters and goods from local retailers.

“Many of these passenger improvements are designed to help make OAK an even better gateway to the Bay Area,” said Kaley Skantz, an airport spokeswoman. “So the passenger experience certainly makes a difference when they’re deciding which airport to fly through.”

MORE: Oakland Airport name change unanimously approved by board

According to Skantz, construction work is already underway on a total of 16 new shops and 12 new restaurants. The specialty stores will range from electronics to cosmetics. There will even be a CVS pharmacy, and some kiosks have already been set up. And there will be a distinct East Bay atmosphere.

“Here at OAK, we have a fantastic environment to draw from. We have fantastic small businesses to showcase here. It allows us to showcase the culture of the East Bay and the Bay Area,” says Skantz.

Some of the shops include: Oakland Square, Shop the Town, Oakland Supply Co., Mt. Diablo Market, Temescal Alley, and Lake Merritt Essentials. The East Bay Trails store sells local goods.

Berkeley-based Cancun opened in April. Its manager is Bernadine Simon Van Hook. She said it’s not easy to get into the airport, especially because of competition from fast-food chains, so this opportunity is huge.

MORE: Oakland International Airport considers major expansion project

“When a company comes to the airport and integrates its brand, it also gives local entrepreneurs the chance to have a presence at the airport. And we help them build their business from the airport,” said Simon Van Hook.

Passengers say the changes make a difference.

“I really like the changes since my last visit here. Checking in and coming back is pretty quick, and you can enjoy good food,” said Frank Chavez III, a passenger on his way to Las Vegas.

Construction work will continue until next year.