Venues in Oakland, California

Such a cool atmosphere to have some drinks. It’s always a cool vibe to catch with some friends. I love the funky pictures they’ve got on the walls. Of course, the drinks are good too!

Tasty cocktails, super cool ambiance, and friendly bartenders. Yes, check it out!!

This venue is hard to believe in existence, unless you go there. 1. The quality. Every single performance we went to for the last couple of years is unique, the highest quality and exquisite. The actual room is small and you can literally "see and sense" the music or flamenco moves in the air. Artists selection can be easily compared with Yoshis or SF Jazz,with one exception - there's no big team behind it. Just Karen. One person pulls up shows same quality. 2. Food and wine price/performance wise give this place another 5 stars on top another 5 from the p.1 3. You may be thinking the tickets price is through the roof.....Nope! It's under $50. Enough said. Just select any show and go. Thank me later 🙏.

Nice spot to listen jazz in Oakland. Very good sound system. Excellent artists. Fabulous desserts. Reasonable prices for drinks and venues. Great way to spend an evening.

Great taproom, the owner was super knowledgeable and definitely had a love for beer. We ended up doing some flights, and were really happy with all the options. Fun beer week lineup as well with a bunch of So Cal beers on tap. Definitely going back to this taproom next time I'm in Jack London.

Awesome place with great variety of tap and canned beers and very loyal audience. We’re there for the first time on Sofar event and can tell that the atmosphere was amazing! The only thing that I can ask as a not a beer person a couple more of ciders would be really great(:

A great local bar with the friendliest service! I love that they're always doing something festive (king cake for Mardi Gras, corned beef and cabbage for St. Patty's, all the sports games, etc.) They make a mean dirty martini, and the Irish coffee the owner made me for St. Patty's was perfection. I need to make it here on a Friday for their BBQ lunch, it always looks amazing.

Great atmosphere! Great place to get a cocktail made by our own Gabe! If you want to watch the game without the big crowds but with the big screens this is your place. Chill vibes and great funky music.

Go through time and drink at this historic place right next to Jack London's cabin. Tbh it's tiny inside so you will likely be outside like us. However the inside feels like a ship with the slant. You'll love the shack with brewskees. It's pretty good. I would say 7.5/10

TIME CAPSULE IN THE BAY AREA! If you’re a history geek who also loves beer, you cannot skip this! I went to Oakland just for Heinold’s First and Last Chance Saloon, and it was epic! It felt like I was in a time capsule! The place is pure history!!! The floor is slanted due to the 1906 earthquake and they kept it that way. And the walls and tables felt like they’ve absorbed over a century of stories. There’s also a WWI helmet in the ceiling. Wait!! Did I say this saloon was open since 1883? The place was small but I love history and time capsules! So amazing! And!! I had a blast just chatting with the guys serving beer. They’re more than bartenders. They were storytellers. I kept asking them about the history and all the quirky details inside, and then one of them actually lit up the original gas lamp. Yes, gas lamp!! One of only two left in all of California. How cool is that!!! In that moment, I swear it felt like I’d been transported back in time. Touching the old tables felt like touching the past itself. They don’t serve food here, just drinks, but that’s what keeps the focus on the experience. It’s not just a bar. It’s a living piece of California history.

The place is great, just wish they had more coconut inspired and theme glasses to each drink like most tiki bars do.

It’s a vibe here! Cool aesthetic and the bartender was really nice

Night heron is a must see!! Super cool drinks. Hella sick vibe! Highly recommend you pop in!

Cocktail bar located in Oakland off Telegraph, not too far from the Fox theater. Good spot to grab a drink before or after a show. Cozy lighting, lots of seating, good drinks and friendly bartenders. They sometimes have a dj here and play good music. Nice and chill spot to start and end your night. I have definitely stumbled in here while bar hopping and enjoyed it. There’s some street parking and nearby parking garages out here.

Shi is wonderful and is a joy to watch make drinks. I sit at the bar specifically for this reason. She’s super friendly and you can tell she enjoys her job and is very talented too. I will be coming back again and again. Even Ryan at the door made me feel welcome. I have gone to Shiru both with my boyfriend and just by myself and I look forward to bringing my friends here too! Vibes are great, drinks are amazing and the music selection and volume is perfect.

Bar Shiru is an incredible spot in Oakland for anyone who appreciates great cocktails and an amazing vibe. The focus on high-quality vinyl music sets the tone perfectly — the sound system is crisp, and the music selection is thoughtfully curated. The cocktails are expertly crafted with a balance of creativity and classic flavors, and the staff is knowledgeable and welcoming without being overbearing. The atmosphere strikes that rare balance between lively and intimate, making it perfect for a date night or catching up with friends. Highly recommend for music lovers and cocktail enthusiasts alike!

I went here for a Virgo birthday and what can I say it's Oakland so they didn't disappoint. Drinks were on point and so was the music. Smart to have the water pitcher out as well. I definitely drank more water here than any other club do to accessibility.

Price and service,way too expensive, table service, only , hookah, only on one section, when it was clearly being saved for friends. Empty tables sat, open. For no reason. DJ was off the hook, too pricey for the quality.

Really cool ambiance inside. I have not had any of the custom drinks but I did stop by on my lunch and try the Lion Dancing dog. Very good! The lady bartender was very nice and welcoming too! Definitely will be going back to try drinks/more dogs. Update 6/20/25: tried a few drinks and they were wonderful! I had the pretty privilege & baby boy...oh and another Lion Dancing Dog.

Really like the vibe of this hipster dive. The drinks are great, especially the Vesperado for all my Mezcal lovers. The food is all vegan, and while I liked my kimchi hot dog, it does seem to go down awfully fast for $14; in other words, not quite worth the price but I appreciate their playfulness in creating the menu. Cocktails, I will definitely come back for!

Felt right at home. You can sense the history around you with all the ear marks of a classic dive bar. I love it and even bought a T-shirt 🍻 Good drinks, people and service. The back patio is awesome with a rentable loft

It was the last place we went before the pandemic hit and the first place we went when we were allowed to go out again. I’ve been to this local dive for many years and it’s always a nice casual atmosphere. They have a large back patio, TVs, two bars, free salted and buttered popcorn, and it is dog friendly. We rented the upstairs room for one of my birthdays, and it was also very convenient for $200. Street parking. One unisex bathroom in the back patio and one male one female bathroom inside.

Because it's not Penrose! The Iconic Piano Bar with pianists Bryan Seet and Jef Labes took over the music scene almost 10 years ago from Rod Dibble and have continued the tradition of accompaning singing around the piano. Each week people from near and far come to test out their voices along with the regular singers of the place. The Alley is know for its steaks, fried chicken and enormous burgers, great fries, in fact all the portions are very hearty. People come for the music, food and Alley Family!

If you like the eclectic, old school Bay Area hole in the wall, this is your place! If you like the corporate clean sterile boring, please don’t bother. They have (almost) daily music program. Not everything will delight your ears ( when the neighborhood Pavarotti thinks he has to Make up for lack of talent by singing louder during open mic karaoke). Food is solid old school. Wine…. Please skip. Even the more expensive $12 glass makes vinegar a superstar. No draft beer :( Service was great land customers are as unique as the place itself. To me this is a jewel. But, check out the images before you go- to make sure it is your style. We lost WAY TOO MANY of these unique places since the early 2000’s in tie Bay Area, and with it also left the characters operating and patronizing these kind of classic Bay Area places. Come visit and visit often to keep THE ALLEY going.

Halloween is every day of the year at The Avenue. Traditional small bar with great staff and pool table and quiet area at rear. Pictures tell the story.

I absolutely love this place!!!!! One of my favorite places in the Bay Area and the coolest dive bar! Halloween themed! And every October the decorations are absolutely incredible. Wish I posted these pictures sooner. They’re from the end of October 2024.

The best tiki bar decor makes the creative cocktails and tropical drinks even more delicious. The glowing puffer fish are priceless. Big room is perfect for parties. Aloha!

Kona Club to close out our Friday night, and I'll tell you what this should have been a Speakeasy Tiki Bar because walking up I thought I was being memed on. Greeted by Amazingly friendly door men, and other patrons. Alas the doors open and you are instantly immersed in a paradise of awesome music, (which should have been karaoke by the amount of engagement it was receiving with singing and dancing, song after classic song) not enough Smash Mouth in my humble opinion, haha. But it definitely didn't disappoint. The drinks where themed correctly with some cool twists and the bartenders where on point with their recommendations and authentic presence. This place was made for making friends. So come have some fun, I guarantee you will not be disappointed. And if you are then you definitely shouldn't be here. Haha. Other noteworthy things, A pool table in its own game area, a complete other chill area on the other side of the wall from the bar with huge connect four / forever. This place was awesome. Thanks for the fun new friends.

Yes, it gets busy. The Double Standard is my Holiday standard in Oakland. They really go all out during the holidays. Drink menu, decor, everything. Their lovely Coast redwoods are the Christmas trees! Eggnog, brandy drinks, hot buttered rum, antique Victorian sounding drinks in specialty holiday glassware. All delicious.

Quality drinks made by cool servers. The back patio with the large tree is a classic in Oakland. Very fun and chill bar to go to.

Strolling through what felt like a small-town square in the middle of Uptown Oakland (who knew?), I stumbled upon Drake’s Dealership. At first glance, it doesn’t look like a dealership—unless you’re in the market for craft beer and carbs instead of the latest Dodge Charger. The name may harken back to its Dodge roots, but this place is a hidden gem disguised as a sudsy varietal urban oasis. I wandered into the outdoor beer garden—a wide-open space with fire pits, string lights, and the kind of gravel floor that screams “this is going to get stuck in your shoes, but who cares.” Seating was self-serve, which I appreciated. I don’t always want to be guided—I just want a chair, some shade, and something to tickle my palette. And that’s when I met my waiter: a QR code. Yes, Drake’s has joined the digital age in style. Tap, scan, scroll—it was honestly one of the more intuitive and pain-free ordering systems I’ve encountered. The menu was interactive, highly customizable (shout out to the “no onions, add avocado, extra cheese” crew), and even better, it didn’t judge me when I ordered a salad and a burger - sans bun. QR quietly let the carb cutting move in this high carb zone slide. Let’s talk about that burger. Juicy, flavorful, and stacked, just the way I wanted. The side salad? Crisp, fresh, lightly dressed—like it knew it wasn’t the star but still showed up looking good. Beer lovers, rejoice: the tap list here is a borderline novella. From hazy IPAs to malty lagers, there’s a pour for every palate and then some. While I didn't partake in the brew fest offerings, I know where I'm bringing friends and family that crave well crafted suds. They also offer cocktails, which is always a fun bonus at a beer-first joint. I gave the margarita a go—decent, lacking the bold personality I’d hoped for. Kind of like hanging out with Jose Cuervo's younger cousin - right family, needs to learn a few more family secrets before bursting onto the prime time bar scene. In all, Drake’s Dealership is a vibe—part industrial nostalgia, part modern beer garden, with food that surprises in the best way. Come for the beer, stay for the burger, and soak up the friendly, easy going atmosphere.

The outdoor patio is the real star here—huge space, fire pits, and a great vibe. The beer selection is top-notch, tons of local options. Pizza was solid, but nothing mind-blowing. Service was hit or miss, depends on how busy they are. Still, a great spot to chill with friends over drinks.

dive bar vibes. not a bad thing but atmosphere was definitely different from shiru next door which is more my speed so i felt a bit out of place. i wanted to get out of there as quickly as possible. because it was a bit overstimulating. the grapefruit drink was good (and pulpy). $10 drink in n out wasn’t bad but i could have skipped it. i see the appeal but it just wasn’t for me.

Consistently one of my favorite bars in Oakland. I’m a tequila kinda gal but I always drink greyhounds when I’m here (as is tradition).

Great bar, fun karaoke spot! Bar tender/owner is fantastic! Super approachable and fun location.

This bar has the potential to be a fun bar but unfortunately every time I went it was empty. I like the location even though it's off the beaten path in old Oakland. The staff is alright, the drinks are ok, but the music is absolutely horrible. I'll continue to come every so often.

I’ve heard great things about the wings here at Xingones so I finally made some time to try it out for myself! Xingones offers fast casual dining and also has a bar. We opted for dine-in so we ordered at the front, took our number, and seated ourselves. Their decor is very vibrant yet feels cozy with how it’s set up. There are some high top tables, couch seats, and normal tables. On the back wall, you’ll see their logo, a great photo-op if you come with friends! This restaurant would be great for large gatherings as well. I’m not sure if they were understaffed when I was there, but it took a few minutes for someone to come take our order at the front. Once we ordered, we grabbed some water at the self-serve station and waited for about ten minutes. The food came out pretty quick! Our Xingones Nachos came out first, I was very excited to try the Picadillo on the nachos. It’s one of my childhood favorites! The nachos were $14 and it came with a pretty decent serving, definitely enough for two people. It was topped with picadillo (stir fried ground beef and veggies), cotija cheese, sour cream, cilantro, onion, and had red salsa on the side. I’m not sure what kind of salsa it was, but it was pretty bland and rather oily. It did offer a nice contrast and character to the richness of the nachos which was nice. The nachos were plentiful, but rather than the toppings being layers between the chips, it was just smacked on top. So, once we got through the top layer of chips/topping we were left with a bunch of plain chips. The chips itself were very crispy and not too oily. For the wings, we got a Large (12 pieces) with two flavors (citrus hot and spicy Korean) which came with two ranch cups, carrots, and celery for $23. You could pay a few extra bucks for all flats or all drums but we like a nice variety. For me, the star of the wing platter was the ranch— I really enjoyed how much dill they used in it! The wings were obviously fried, but were not crunchy at all and the meat was pretty dry and didn’t have much flavor soaked into the meat itself even though the sauce was evenly coated. It also didn’t feel like the wings were fried to order, but I could be wrong. Thankfully, the citrus hot sauce made the wings somewhat enjoyable. It was bright, flavorful, and seasoned well. The hot korean sauce was too one-note for me. The spice levels were both very mild, but that’s okay! I am truly hoping it was just an off day for Xingones, as many of my friends have told me they come here just for the wings. Since it’s down the road from me, I’ll definitely come back to see what the rest of their menu has to offer.

New location located in Jack London! And it's the perfect atmosphere for them! Beautiful and colorful decor that provides a welcoming atmosphere. Drinks are nice and strong. Even their agua fresca were delicious; i recommend blueberry lemonade. And the food is just as good. I had the fried chicken and mole while my friend had the chicken taquitos and they were both delicious. Hot and crunchy fried chicken with a smokey mole sauce with a kick served with rice, beans and a side of tortilla and pico de gillo. The taquitos were crunchy and the chicken, while white meat, was still flavorful and juicy. Then i had their vanilla bean panna cotta which was the absolute star of the night. With whipped cream, toasted coconut flake, caramel sauce and berries, it was absolutely mouth watering. They dont have table service. You order at the counter and they give you a number. And if you need to order something else, go back to the counter.

My most favorite beloved dive bar in Oakland. Strong drinks, good price, jukebox, dark atmosphere, pool table, sticky floors and clientele that are very chill and no nonsense.

I felt like a local at this nearly-hidden 104-year-old bar. Everyone there knew each other. The service was top-notch and the drink was strong. The atmosphere is like none other. We enjoyed our visit.

Out of all the establishments in Oakland this is definitely my new go-to. The staff and ownership take pride in what they do! Service is paired with a smile no matter the request. The ambiance is cool and a great place to unwind after work. Looking for afro-beats and some good food and vibes this is the spot!

They didn't have any ginger beer, only Canada Dry ginger ale, which is sweetened with high fructose corn syrup. How do you make mules without ginger beer?? I ended up getting a Guinness. It was $8 for a 22oz bottle, which is a decent deal. Still, not cool to not carry ginger beer.

It is such a wonderful atmospheric. A girl can drink there by herself and not be bothered. Roy the bartender is an exceptional person.

Indoor-smoking, awesome dive. Owner operated and very friendly. Smaller groups for well here; more than 5 is pushing it.

Came here after work for an early dinner. I shared the Low bar nachos with my friend and both of us liked it well enough. We liked the topping to chip ratio but lots of the toppings were very wet so the chips got soggy quickly. I got the pink flag cocktail and was happy that they put what glass it would be served in on the menu. The salt and pepper wings were crisp but a little too salty. My friend got the breaded fish tacos and she liked them but they came with a sauce that was very spicy

This place was fine. It’s a pretty basic bar/restaurant. The location is cool, the interior is small but chill. The staff was chill and laid back. The tequila selection is pretty mid. I had a great time because of the company I was with, but the food and drinks were just ok. There was nothing wrong with this place but there also wasn’t any reason I’d be dying to go back. If you’re just looking for a spot to drink and meet with people I think this spot is great. But for a fun and interesting meal? Probably not. It’s downtown Oakland so parking isn’t easy.

Great local watering Hole. Super amazing service wonderful drinks and they have pop-up food out front that changes daily.

Room 389 in downtown Oakland had potential — cool location, decent crowd, music was alright. But all of that went out the window thanks to one incredibly rude bartender. I was out celebrating my birthday and asked, politely, if they offered any kind of birthday discount for a drink. Not only was I met with a flat-out “no,” but the way it was said was condescending and dismissive, like I was out of line just for asking. No smile, no courtesy — just straight attitude. The energy shifted immediately. It made me — and the people I was with — feel unwelcome, like we were bothering them by being there. It’s one thing to not offer a discount, but it’s another to treat a customer with zero respect. Especially when they’re out trying to enjoy their birthday. That bartender’s attitude single-handedly ruined the vibe of the night. Won’t be coming back Wouldn’t recommend to celebrate birthdays here. 60 bucks just on three drinks

Been coming to this bar for years, glad to call it a neighborhood spot. Great place for groups, stopping in with the dog, or a book after walking the lake. Back patio and photobooth are nice features, and cash is preferred even though cards are accepted now. I've always enjoyed interacting with the folks working here, but Michael has been such a joy to chat and hang with! Always happy to see him when I walk in for a drink 🍻🦇

As someone who works in the restaurant industry, this is hands-down my favorite place to unwind! Michael here is everything you want in a night out—charming, flirtatious, and full of personality. On top of being ridiculously handsome, he’s also incredibly talented at what he does, pouring drinks with style and making everyone feel like the center of attention. His tattoos? Absolute bonus—they add to his irresistible vibe. This place wouldn’t be the same without him. If you’re looking for a spot with great drinks and even better company, this is the place to be.

I'm always looking for places that don't have a TV on as the standard. Thank you for letting me enjoy a refreshing libation in peace! Quiet, calm atmosphere at 6pm. I asked for something interesting from the bartender and he said if I didn't like it he'd make me something else. Wow! I normally don't get that kind of treatment. Loved the Iron Man pinball machine and the name sake of the bar (Rufus the wolfhound) strutting his stuff. Whenever I'm in the area I'll be back.

Neighborhood bar with a cast of local characters. Great lighting, nice decor, jukebox, pinball & I believe a pool table as well. Modest prices for draft beer & I think cans might have been even more reasonable. Look for Chris behind the bar - he will make sure you never go thirsty plus has an ability to keep a conversation intriguing.

A good mix of music. A nice selection of custom drinks with a regular bar. There was a food truck in patio area. Next door is a restaurant who'll deliver to the patio. Stop by and make a good time!

Great spot to stop for a game. They had several TVs and they were playing multiple games. Of course at the 4th quarter, they changed all the TVs to the warriors game. It felt like a good mix of people in the place. There is a coin-op pool table. The service was quick. The mezcal cucumber cocktail was very refreshing on a warm day. The mezcal flight for $15 was def worth it.

Two stars. The burgers and fries are only worth 2 stars in terms of taste and quality. about the level of McDonald’s. On a Saturday evening, the café wasn’t busy, which says something. The beer was nothing special, just average quality. It’s also self-service.

Two pitchers is really great. It’s a little loud and lively and they seem to have trivia, but it’s such a cool vibe, it’s in a fun part of town and there’s great indoor and outdoor seating. It’s great for big groups or small and even if it’s packed there’s seating. The beer, wine and fun drink category is soooo big how can you not be happy getting a drink here. If you get hungry walk over to the courtyard and grab a burger at lovely’s.

Souled out Saturdays-every third Saturday of every month. Flyest Fridayz- every fourth Friday of every month. Hookah, drink specials, live performances, the bestde q djs...and good vibrations!

The bartenders could have a bit more personality, and be a bit more friendly. They could definitely smile more and make you feel more welcome. The manager was very nice. DJ and music are good.

Went here for lunch over the weekend with the family. We were there at about 30 past noon and it was not crowded at all. Think the crowd comes in much later. This place has the "friendly neighborhood bar" feel to it. Pretty good collection of artisanal beers. We ordered the falafel burger, the banh mi tofu sandwich that is actually vegan and double slices of margherita pizza for the kids, all of which were good. The portions are generous and the pricing is very nominal. This is right on the main street so parking could be an issue.

Came in for a burger today after not having visited in many years. I remember the burgers as being really great. Not anymore. Thin with an off taste and the plate was just a mess of thrown together salad and burger toppings. Salad was drenched in dressing. Things have gone downhill unfortunately.

Please read this review as I am doing so with an intentional blessing from a distance , as I write as short and to the point with positive vibes . I was born and raised in Oakland Cal .1964 , Across the street (corner of 35th & Mac) 1974,was Bob Brown Shell station ,yes I am part of Oakland history and very very proud the Town is me heart and soul . I actually retired as a Mechanic just a block away at Mcgee and Macarthur .my building still standing today . I was looking for Merles hilltop tavern where your establishment now stands I was shocked and happy to see such a change ,and look forward to stopping in soon as many people have moved on over the years , I have so much to add to what I am trying to say so I apologize for taking up space . Live music !! So much needed back in the laurel district I am wondering and yet giving some of Oakland rich history back and alive The Laurel district was once the Jazz hotspot of the bay The old Laurel lounge was a venue of historical value so if you didn't know you know now , also in history Merles hilltop tavern which was at the location you are now was the only native American owned and operated tavern in the bay area for many years .I found it very interesting and moved by the reviews enough to want me to visit home again .Thank you for reading Btw I'm called Oakland Homeboy where I live for the last 21 years and give my hometown great reviews always we always get bad press publicity !! Thank you hope to meet you all soon !

My first time here and I had a Ball ! Great Bartender (Elana).I even ditched my old friends and made new friends (Greg). Came back on Saturday for more 😁. I enjoyed myself and you will to from karaoke to Live bands. The love of music is in the air. Enjoy tunes 😉

They make the best vegan wings I've ever had. Their vegan buffalo wings are the only ones I've ever had that actually get the taste and texture right (they're supposed to be buttery!) the rest are excellent too. They're so good I ended up ordering every flavor and I was worried it might be overkill but we ate them all right away now I'm craving them again and my partner already even said they wished we had more too.

The Hatch serves up delicious, affordable pizza with a variety of sauces (including several really spicy ones I truly appreciate!). The chef is not only incredibly kind but clearly takes a lot of pride in the food. The outdoor patio is a gem—super accessible, relaxed, and welcoming. One thing I truly admire is that this spot offers great food at prices that make it accessible to everyone in the neighborhood, including folks experiencing homelessness. It feels like a place built for the community, where everyone is welcome.

El Rey has a lot going for it: decent music, vibe is fun, good place to hang out. BUT sometimes it's loud in a way where conversations are nearly impossible unless you're right next to someone. Also, parking’s a pain on busy nights arrive early or expect to walk a bit. The bartenders seemed overworked but tried to stay nice. I’d go back, especially for a headliner DJ or themed night. If you want something more chill, maybe go earlier in the night.

This place is for dirty old men the women at this place bring beer and you pay them for the company. They allow the men to touch them inappropriately and bounce from lap to lap.

This place has super fun karaoke! Really enjoyed the one time I joined. On a Saturday (today), I came to join the yoga class as it said there is one online every week. I got ready and drove over here to find out that a special event is taking place. It’s frustrating and disappointing to set out to go enjoy a community class for the first time to find out it’s not happening. My wish is that there was communication online about the event being cancelled, that way I could have spared myself the drive and the difficult process of finding parking near this place on a Saturday.

vibes are kinda lit! there’s lots of games, the bartender was super nice, the bathrooms were nice, and there seemed to be great activities lined up on the activity schedule. most importantly, it’s got a great name and an even better happy hour menu

Always great ambiance here with tasty drinks including really solid options even for non alcoholic beverages! They have the best bartenders who work extra hard with those game day crazy crowds because I love coming to Mad Oak to watch games. The indoor/outdoor space makes it perfect especially with our Bay weather.

Such a great place for casual trivia and a beer with friends. Went on a Tuesday night and was surprised with how busy it was — tons of good energy paired with an expansive outdoor patio (don’t forget your jacket though, it got cold!) made for a great evening. I’d give it five stars, but the chips and salsa were a bit disappointing — the salsa came in a little paper sample cup, which was hilariously small for a side meant to serve 4. Otherwise, things were great — especially the expansive beer and cider menu. We also ordered the nachos, and they were well received by everyone. One last thing to know — the place cleared out immediately after trivia was over, so expect to pack up and head out by 9:30pm.

Amazing drag brunch here! The entertainment was great and lively, and the food was delicious! I had the steak and eggs. The steak was cooked perfectly, the eggs had a nice bit of truffle in them and the potatoes had the perfect texture. The pork belly was also really tasty as were the cocktails. The drag show was super fun and interactive, and the service was fast and friendly. Definitely want to come back for more of their events!

Came here on a Sunday evening for a comedy night which is located upstairs. This is a pretty big bar, club, and venue space. The comedy club is upstairs and usually comes with a 2 item minimum, which includes food. I got an espresso martini and my friend got a margarita. We ordered the pizza belly pizza that had pork and jalapeños. We also got their chicken wings (Parmesan and herb) with a side of fries and it was really good. Service was great, they have a huge dance floor on the main floor and large bar area downstairs. There are plenty of bathrooms. There’s street parking not too far away and parking garages around the areas.

I went for the first time and it's truly a locals spot. The Bartender was welcoming and greeted me as i walked in. The bar seemed fully stocked and for the Wednesday night Steppers set, there were some Steppers in there. Casual to comfortable dancing attire was acceptable. The cocktails were reasonably priced. It appeared to be a Black-Owned business and I was glad to see people patronizing this establishment.

Love miss creole lady who cooked them neck bones, macaroni, rice,corn bread,string beans delicious, the band marvelous job...bartenders Bravo like the bald head one..see yall soon again..

This is one of my most favorite places to grab a steak and socialize. These steaks are always delicious and perfectly grilled and are hand cut. I also really enjoy that atmosphere, the friendly people and the entertainment.

Great place to grab a drink, some good food, and watch a game! Staff n owner are awesome!

This is one of our favor rite go to spots in Oakland. All great bites and drinks. A good place to watch a game. Personally I enjoy the Irish Coffee ☕️ 🍺 Plenty of vegetarian options 🤙🏾

Sophie was very kind and polite the hostess, and she also weighed on my table as well. The food was great Nachos with Grill chicken is delicious!!!!

It's a first time dining at D.Monaghans on the Hill on June 26, 2025. The name of the restaurant sounds appealing. For my male companion's birthday celebration, he chose DMonaghans. Okay, he booked the reservation for 7 PM. We arrived and their parking lot was full. Street parking was problematic and my companion ended up parking in a red zone half a block away, hoping his car would not be towed. Upon entering the restaurant, there is no host or maitre'd to escort us to a table. A nonchalant waiter told us just grab a table and seat anywhere. First time at any restaurant I usually will order an Arnold Palmer (1/2 tea, 1/2 lemonade). The beverage is to determine whether the quality of the food is delicious. In this case, the Arnold Palmer passed the test (4 star). Next up - eats. Eats: for starter, beet salad consisting of a spring mix, diced beets, thinly sliced orange, candied walnuts, diced goat cheese, topped with a balsamic vinaigrette. (4 star). Salmon with a wine glazed sauce with roasted potatoes and mixed vegetables was on point and delicious. It was fresh and moist. (4 star). My friend ordered the NY steak with the same sides. I'm not sure if he asked for medium well. Even though it was well-seasoned with rosemary, the texture was chewy, not tender. Was it cooked too long? Gristles? Wrong cut of meat? Then he asked for steak sauce. Waiter brought out a bottle of A1 steak sauce. My friend wanted Lea & Perrins worcestershire sauce. I know the next time my friend orders a steak he better specify the Lea & Perrins. (3 star) No room for dessert. We were full. However, that bread pudding probably would have been great. Inasmuch as I would like to give D Monaghans a 4 star rating, and there is no such thing as a 3.5 stars, either I round it up or round it down. In this case, it's rounded down due to lack of attentive service, parking and a steak with gristles. Overall: it can be a hit or it can be a miss. Future visit? Might, then might not.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ D.Monaghan’s On The Hill — A Hidden Gem with Soul I’ve had a few unforgettable experiences at D.Monaghan’s, and every time I go, I’m reminded why it’s one of my favorite spots in the city. One night, my friend and I stopped in for drinks and decided to try the vegan buffalo cauliflower — and wow. I’m not even vegan, but this dish completely blew us away. Crispy, flavorful, just the right amount of heat… we were raving about it for days. The drinks were just as amazing — clearly crafted with intention, and perfectly balanced. Another evening, I came back and had the salmon dinner, and it was absolute perfection. So often salmon gets dry or overcooked — but not here. It was moist, flaky, tender, and cooked exactly right. You could tell someone in the kitchen really cares. One of the most special moments I’ve had here was dining in the private room with the fireplace. I was with my granddaughter, her other grandmother (on her father’s side), and we shared a beautiful meal together. The food was, as always, delicious — but what stood out was the feel of the room. The glow from the fireplace was soft and warm, and the whole space felt incredibly cozy — personal, even. Like being in someone’s home, but with the charm and ease of being taken care of. It was intimate and meaningful in a way you don’t always expect from a restaurant. The service has been wonderful every time. One server in particular was so kind, I genuinely felt like I had met her in another life. And Danny, the owner, is the heart of the place. He treats every customer like a friend — which is rare, and deeply appreciated. D.Monaghan’s On The Hill isn’t just a place to eat — it’s a place to feel. To connect, to relax, and to enjoy something genuinely special.

Nice windows up front but nice and cozy in the back. Very comfortable stools, tons of different sports on the different TVs, two nice pool tables I think about $1.50. The bartender is very friendly and chatty and it seems like mostly regulars. Nice variety of seating options : bar, 3x six seat high tables, a few tables outside off the side walk and a few tables for two at the front windows Also I think the term “ dive bar” is over used and does not apply to this place. This is a nice friendly neighborhood bar

Good place to play pool, they have 2 tables. Just make sure to monitor your name on the queue because people will likely try to skip you or even erase your name. If you play Mo, watch for the double hit foul. They do have good equipment for a bar though. Drinks are good although not too generous on the pours... The food is almost always good.

Update: Ben 'N Nick's has become my go-to spot in the neighborhood. The bartenders and servers are super fun to chat with, the beer selection is solid and rotates pretty frequently, and the food (nachos, chicken Club, wings, etc.) has been really spectacular the last few times I've come in. Special shout-out to the burger-- absolutely perfect and a great price during happy hour! I also took my family here when they visited from out of state, and they loved Ben N' Nick's as much as i do. Great spot to hang out and have a few beers and a solid meal! Original review: Fun neighborhood bar with a cool atmosphere and friendly staff. I've tried the buffalo wings, Philly cheese steak and chicken sandwich from here on 2 different occasions. The wings are great and I will definitely be coming back for more, however the chicken sandwich and Philly were both a bit bland and got extremely soggy after a few minutes. From now on I'll probably just go with the wings and a beer when I come here because they are awesome, but I will probably not have the Philly or chicken sandwich again. Would recommend this spot if you are looking for some great wings and a cold beer.

Great food, very chill atmosphere and lots of tvs with sports ball on. Service was fast and attentive but never overbearing. Grilled cheese & tomato soup hit the spot on a rainy day. 5/5. Arguably one of the best grilled cheeses I’ve ever had. Club sandwich 5/5 it was very juicy, the bread was perfectly toasted and the fries were hot and crispy. Guinness was poured perfectly as well. Dog friendly covered patio/ parklet

Definitely one of my favorite bars in the east bay! Always good atmosphere, fun music & a good time. Bartenders are so amazing & friendly. I enjoy coming here after a long day!

Wow Ruby Room is back, as soon as I’m leaving after living here 15 years on and off… new ownership, waltzed in on a Tuesday at 10pm and the atmosphere was great. Great speaker system, still the same classic decor, nice vibe and people…. I will miss this place. The fact that this place isn’t packed 247 leaves me curious why. Also, the sound and acoustics are fantastic, not sure if they updated after new ownership or if I’ve just not been here in a while

I had an awesome night at District Oakland—definitely one of the better dining experiences I’ve had in a while. We sat at the bar and were lucky to have Teddy taking care of us. He was quick, super friendly, funny, and just had great energy overall. You could tell he actually enjoyed what he was doing, which made the whole vibe that much better. Teddy gave us spot-on recommendations for everything we ordered. The margherita pizza came out perfectly blistered with fresh basil and gooey cheese—simple but done right. The burrata with prosciutto and crostini was rich and flavorful, and the spinach arancini with that tomato sauce might have been the sleeper hit of the night. Everything came out fast, hot, and delicious. Also, gotta say—the Prosecco Teddy recommended was probably the best I’ve ever had. Crisp, refreshing, and way better than anything I’ve been served at most restaurants. Service was on point from start to finish. I’ll definitely be back soon, and I’ll be asking for Teddy again.

It was my 1st time having brunch and I was pleasantly surprised. The food was tasty and the service, as always, was great

The bartender was super cool.

Found my new go to bar to watch games or just have a drink. Drinks were reasonably priced. You can bring outside food and there are plenty of options around. They have lil bags of chips for sale.

I have had two events at this venue. The staff support is amazing. So kind and accommodating. Great price too. Highly recommend it if you need a place for any event.

It was a good time. I went there on a Friday for Afrobeats night. Flygerian Jeff had us getting it with the tunes. However, it was a shared DJ booth, which meant there was more trap and house music.. all in all, t'was still a good vibe.

Local dive bar that opens really early... Day drinkers paradise.. great bar staff and lots of locals

A family own bar: was an excellent night at the" 2101 Club". The place was active with locals. All there to watch the game between the Warriors and the Portland Trail Blazers. Finial 128 - 103. The people are very friendly: Bell, in the middle of photo gave our first round for free. We shared the well served pint with Puerto Rican food from a local restaurant across the way. The bar keepers: Tony and Valerie served the drinks like true pros. As Tony stated, "It feels like Philly!"

Kerry House, nestled on Piedmont Avenue in Oakland, stands as an exceptional local haunt revered by residents for its vibrant atmosphere and welcoming vibe. The establishment boasts a well-curated jukebox and an inviting outdoor patio where smoking is permitted, making it a rare find. Bartenders exude energy and friendliness, contributing to the lively ambiance that has been a hallmark of Kerry House for years. Flanked by exquisite restaurants and charming baguette spots to both the left and right, it's positioned in a bustling area, promising an engaging experience. While soaking in the locale's lively spirit, visitors should be mindful of parking regulations. Ensure you feed the meter or opt for paid parking to avoid the inconvenience of a ticket. Kerry House is more than a bar; it's a testament to Oakland's spirited community and a must-visit spot for an authentic local experience.

Was passing by this place and wanted to stop by for a drink but saw these lovely plants just sitting there in this awful state!!! This negligence made me stop and I went to another bar. Makes me wonder how they handle their cocktails and dishes... This is the face of the store, after all. The management obviously does not care, which is very sad and unprofessional.

The bar is gross and unclean. The glasses are dirty and prices are not listed. I noticed the bartender charge customers different prices for the same drink. It’s clear the taps are busted beer taste flat. I mentioned to the owner/ bartender she wouldn’t provide a refund or a new beer . It took her 3mins to pour the beer due to the constant foam. Absolutely disgusting. Clearly the bar has not been cleaned, visible cobwebs, stains broken sockets. Bathroom smells of vomit and other unthinkable odors . Lastly, the bar is unsafe over serving clearly intoxicated customers. This creates an unsafe space for the customers, especially the women. There is no security or accountability. I would not recommend this bar several red flags .

This is my normal spot to come have a drink and play some pool with my housemates and have a great drunk made by Karl, one of the top bartenders in Oakland.

Great time. Bartenders worked hard to get drinks pushed. Good atmosphere. The front area has a good ambiance with a decent amount of seating. The patio out back is also great w some seating. But it's mostly standing. There is a separate room w a stage, good view from almost all area of the dance floor.

Used to find this spot a safe space for queer women of color but when I went this past Saturday, one of the bartenders yelled at me and my friend for having plastic water cups from the bar right outside the door. I understand not wanting the bar to be liable for anything but we weren't being rowdy or loud, and yelling "go back inside" multiple times is a vibe killer. I left before the drag show I paid for even started.

Oleskool Drank strong and the music is long. The patio is my favorite place to be...

This is my old hood spot love everything about it

Visited around 9PM on Saturday in September. Mostly empty which was awesome cause we had convo with the bartender. They also have bottle services in the second floor. Good vibes and beautiful decors. Fancier looking compared to the rest of Oakland bars 🤣🤣🤣 would definitely come back.

One of those hit and miss spots . In &outs need to be outlined . How is it that I pay for a bottle and you charge me to get back in after stepping out for 5 mins

How could it be! We are in at an upscale roof top bar in Downtown Oakland and the only music that is played is Disco pop, No R&B No Jazz two thumbs down for the prices we pay to come to the roof top. 90% of the patriots are African American. This place does not play any R&B WOW WHAT A DISAPPOINTMENT! DONT WASTE YOUR MONEY

Love ya Torch. Just please tell the bartenders my $20 Cadillac margarita should have a shot of tequila or grand Marnier on the side .. in addition to the tequila in my cup. Im they got it right tonight after I said somethin.. besides that, I love Oweee catering, the music , the rooftop vibe! LOVE IT

Pleasantly surprised by this place! Food was really good and the happy hour was a great deal. Ordered sliders, calamari and nachos. The nacho dish was huge! The calamari pieces were large and well cooked and the little burgers were cooked perfectly and included bacon! So ce I was staying at the hotel this was super convenient! I would happily eat here again. Oh and if you live sports, they have so many TV's with games playing...

Rosa provided top quality and personalized service and Chef Shay cooked up huge fabulous meals! We are visiting from Colorado and they made us feel like family. The portions and quality of the food is worth the price. Highly recommend

Drove from SF on a friday night for hookah and a vibe. Hookah was 45 but only came with one coal..small crowd but good music!

The owner seems pretty shameless about moving into a neighborhood with a ton of residential buildings and yet has the gut to blame longtime residents who complained about the late night blast. Just… be a decent bar owner and do something about the noise.

Taco Tuesday at Qué Rico is an absolute steal! They serve $2 tacos that are honestly ridiculously good—super flavorful, fresh, and way better than you’d expect for the price. I had three and immediately wished I’d ordered five (pro tip: go big). They’re small, so you’ll want a few if you’re making it a meal. Out of appreciation (and a little guilt, because there’s no way this isn’t a labor of love), I grabbed a drink to support the bar—and I’m glad I did! More than just the food, Qué Rico has such a safe, welcoming vibe. As a cisgender woman, I really appreciate being able to grab a solo meal in the evening and feel totally at ease. Everyone is so kind, and the atmosphere is vibrant without being overwhelming. It’s the kind of neighborhood spot that reminds you how good an inclusive community can truly feel.

Great gay Latinx bar. Very diverse group of people showed up for a drag show and it was loads of fun. Drinks were great and there was some food. The show was outdoors, and the bay gets chilly at night so wear a coat if you like plan to see a show at night. The inside was cute too but we mostly hung outside due to COVID and waiting for drag show

I called to get a quote for catering at my wedding. The venue requires all caterers to provide proof of licensing. I politely asked them if that is something they can foward to my venue managment. His response was so unproffesional "well obviously we do but if you need so many requirements find something in your area. I'm not going to leave the restaurant without documentation and carry it in my pocket for your event." Like did I say you need to bring it? Just email it or something.That was beyond rude, Im here basically here take my money, ill pay your gas, your time. You want a job most people are on it.There is ways to word yourself and be polite.

$20 cover charge for men and $15 for women. Majority of the folks there are men. It’s a set of tables and loud music. Not worth it.

If you're killing time before a show, this is a nice spot to catch some views of uptown Oakland - best at sunset, of course! Cocktails were pretty good, but I was surprised by how stained some of the furniture and flooring was. Not really their fault, but better materials for an outdoor bar should probably have been chosen in the first place. The brie-baked baby potatoes and cheese-covered pretzel bites were notably good and filling. Note: This visit took place in September 2024.

I made a reservation for my birthday and was shocked to see how poor the customer service was. The bar tender was trans which doesn’t matter but had an attitude when i ordered a drink. He acted annoyed that it was my birthday and was sarcastic when I was in a good mood on my special day. There was no workers to order food and the tables were not cleaned and the fire pits were broken. I complained to the other bar tender and he felt bad and gave me a free drink which was nice. Cool place to stop buy but don’t expect the best customer service especially for a special day like your birthday.