Bar Shiru

This spot is serves up great drinks and just the perfect laid-back vibe. We stopped by on a Monday night for a few drinks, and from the moment we walked in, the atmosphere immediately stood out. Theres a wall adorned with vinyl records, and the bar, with its aesthetic portraits on top of all the spirits, creates a cool, inviting feel. The music selection is spot on, enhancing the laid back vibe of the place.The host greeted us warmly, and since we were happy to sit at the bar, we were seated right away--though I was surprised by how busy it was for table seating. We would've waited for a table if needed, but the bar was a great choice. The bartenders were friendly, attentive, and got our drinks to us quickly.As for the drinks, the Mystic Bounce was a fantastic choice--an excellent alternative to an espresso martini. The Whiskey Smash was light and refreshing, both cocktails I'd happily order again. My wife tried the Moonglow and Oka Yuzu Highball, and she enjoyed them as well.All in all, this place offers a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere and fantastic cocktails. We'll definitely be back next time we're in town!

If you're into vinyl bars and cafes then this is up your alley! High ceilings with vinyl records covering the walls. There are some "rules" regarding tables and seating so good to get there early!The drinks were not very balanced which led us to only have 1 drink. However, the bartender did switch it up for my friend and ended up enjoying her drink. As for me, my drinks were just too strong. I will say that for it to be a a build in listening experience, you can't hear the music and there were some dead spots. Overall, would I come back? I'd give it another try. Would I recommend it to a friend? Sure

Very beautiful and relaxed vibes at Shiru. I haven't tried any food items here but their cocktail selection is great. The service is overall excellent and the staff is super friendly and welcoming. Highly recommend this place if you're in the area.

A hidden gem in downtown Oakland. If you're looking for a cute bar with vibey music (hi-fi) and want to get away from the loud crowded bars and lounges I highly recommend this place. It's a dim bar with lots of music artist art pieces and an incredible vinyl wall collection.The host and bartenders were great, very attentive and kind. They have craft cocktails ranging from Japanese whiskey to tequila to beer/wine/sake. They also have cute mocktail options for those that prefer non alcoholic. I would definitely come back!

Came here for the atmosphere - am not a big drinker, but friends are. They leave the menus with you when you sit, but you must order drinks and pay at the register. There are no food items/snacks here.I just had a nice ginger beer, which I sipped while lounging on their super comfortable couch. The music was outstanding (such a mood) and the sound quality was definitely top notch. I don't ever remember being in any bar and being able to hear friends so clearly AND also hear the music so clearly. They really set up the space well - no negatives from me.

Very classy bar, quiet ambiance, with surprisingly mediocre cocktails.We had ~15-30 minute wait for seats at 11pm on a Friday.* Moonglow ($16) - 3 stars* Velvet Mood ($16) - 3 stars. Overly strong, not well balanced.

Visited before a show at the Fox theater and immediately as you walk in you are teleported to an amazing vibe and ambiance. A real gem in Oakland. Simple decorations set a classy vibe with a wall of records taking up an entire wall in which the music playing inside the bar is strictly from those records. The security person at the door was incredibly polite when we arrived and the staff inside was great as well. We were sent to the standing room only area as it was full and we were completely fine with standing but were promptly seated as a table opened up without us asking. The drinks were excellent, unique, and flavorful.

Great spot in Uptown. Nice vibes, good music. Order at the bar. Cocktails were well balanced. Good number of people, even on a Tuesday night. Will come back!

I have to give credit to my husband for finding Bar Shiru. We've been coming here for a few years and I always feel super hip, like I've been transported to a trendy little well-kept secret. Bar Shiru is a straight up cocktail bar, which is very on brand for me. Their cocktail menu is different and interesting with a Japanese flair. I usually order from the menu to try something new and let the mixologists do their thing. The bar is doubles as a vinyl "listening bar." What that means is that you get to listen to smooth jazz tunes as you sip your hand-crafted libation. All around, this makes for a pretty fantastic pre- or post-dinner destination.

The drinks here are really good and the workers are so friendly! We went on a weekend and just happened that it wasn't busy. Great intimate setting for date night. Highly recommend this spot for a nice sit down and sip on some drinks