The Most Flavorful Cocktail Bars in Oakland

Casa Del Toro

★★★★☆ 4.2 (483) • $$$

"Started skeptical because it was dead inside, but then assumed that this was due to it being a holiday weekend. Ordered the glazed pork ribs, gambas, and calamari off of the starter menu; again not expecting anything spectacular. WOW food was elevated and finger licking delicious! We also ordered two cocktails and they were top shelf...not at all watered down, had all the garnishes and proper ice for what we ordered. Support this local diamond in the ruff, you won't be disappointed! Only suggestions and not a necessity. Turn up the thermostat a tad. Chop up cashews and sprinkle on the top of the ribs instead of serving them whole-whole makes them a little misplaced. PS: very friendly staff!"

Legionnaire Saloon

★★★★☆ 3.7 (163) • $$

"Found my way to this gem by chance and am so glad I found it! Perfect bar in Oakland for a good time and some cool vibes. Great kareoke and a super friendly and fun crowd. The bartender Justin went above and beyond and the whole staff was very hospitable! Will definitely come back and everyone else should check it out too!!!"

Southside Spirit House

★★★★☆ 4 (358) • $$

"Attended a private party in August. Very nice, clean interior and ambiance. The bartenders were quick and generous with their pour. Enough room for a DJ, private concert, dancing and seating for those socializing at the bar or in the lounge area. Our food was catered in, I am not sure of their menu options. Parking is not far and secure."

Noka Ramen

★★★★☆ 4.3 (510) • $$

"This spot has been popping up on my social media for awhile now but only decided to go spontaneously with my bf today 1 hour before closing and honestly no regrets! They put a lot of detail and care to ensure you have a wonderful experience. Right when you walk in, the walls are decorated with a floral, jungle leaves and references to anime culture. I'm not sure if they cycle out certain themes every now and then, but everything was themed Pokemon this time around--from their menu to the employee outfits (Ash from Pokemon). They even had really fun plates and their chopstick covers were branded with a kantana sword. The menu is a lot of fun with colorful branding and dishes inspired by their current Theme (Pokemon), but they also had other anime /Japan pop culture references like the Sailor Moon shot flight and the Power ranger cocktail. I was really excited to try out their food, and couldn't wait to dive in. To my surprise, a Pikachu mascot came out to greet us and the other guests, and it was so cute. It really felt like I was in Japan again, at a themed cafe. Experience and branding is 10/10.I really thought this was one of those places where they focus so much on the decor that the food is lackluster, but this was exactly the opposite! The food tasted great! I got the black garlic ramen, and the broth was so flavorful!While the price tag is a bit on the pricer side, I totally get it considering how much they put into the entire experience and the flavor was there too! The customer experience was great too, they were approachable and friendly. It was too early for cocktails so I asked for a cocktail because I really wanted the themed pokemon drinks. Unfortunately I couldn't get a mocktail, and opted for an in-house spritzer. Our server was kind enough to add the Pokemon themed cards to our drinks! I'm sure if you ask, they will make your experience amazing (: I highly recommend anyone who loves Japanese pop culture/anime to visit this spot, whether it's just for some fun cocktails or a meal, you'll find something tasty!"

Chef Chu's

★★★★☆ 3.9 • $$$

"Yes, the owner's son is Jon Chu, director of movies like Crazy Rich Asians and more recently Wicked.It's been a popular Chinese restaurant far before Jon's directing career though.They have a wall of pictures of celebrities/politicians who've ate here previously. Justin Bieber, Serena Williams, Jeremy Lin, The Bush family, also apparently Margaret Thatcher ate here (damn, she ate this food and still managed to destroy UK's industry? hey-ooo)I was afraid that this restaurant was going to be too westernized, but I think they do a good job of striking a balance between western and Chinese authentic taste.Most of the food was delicious, though the Mongolian Beef didn't taste that great. That's usually one of my go-tos when trying to determine a Chinese restaurant's chops.Parking can be challenging though they have additional parking at a private lot down the neighborhood road and is a mild walk to and from the restaurant.It's a 3.5 but rounded down for me, the service was kinda meh and all the seating arrangements were very tight and crammed."

Tunnel Top

★★★★☆ 4 (843) • $$

"This bar was cute and quaint ! The French bartender was quite charming and very friendly ! The price wasn't too bad for a margarita ,and I like the smaller feel of a bar but The bathrooms are large :-)"

Dos Botellas

★★★★☆ 4.1 (36) • $$

"I would definitely go back when I'm in the area. The ambiance was nice with the choice of indoor seating or patio seating. The Al pastor super burritos and chicken verde enchiladas were really good. Chips and salsa included and the salsa was really good."

Quinn's Lighthouse

★★★★☆ 3.5 • $$

"So we are back. This place changed hands a couple of years ago and went more Vietnamese cuisine while still keeping some of the best of Quinn's menu selections from before. Still has most of not all the memorabilia on the walls and ceiling. The deck is still happening as is the upstairs bar. We had the mussels and clams. Slightly different presentation but still great. Also had popcorn shrimp which with the accompanied rabbit food was excellent. Still a 5 in my book."

Zaya Thai Pantry

★★★★★ 4.5 (244) • $$

"This was a really great Thai spot situated in the heart of Danville downtown. We went for a friend's birthday and they were able to accommodate a big group. The ambiance of the place is really nice and the staff were friendly. Our favorite thing was the lychee martinis they were packed with the alcohol punch, but yummy taste or lychee. We liked it so much we got a second one. Definitely recommend this refreshing drink! The food was pretty good, I really enjoyed my pad see ew dish. The egg roll appetizer was a nice touch with the sauce. Overall a good fancy Thai dining experience."

Pier 29 Waterfront Restaurant

★★★☆☆ 3 (527) • $$

"Much, much better! I see there has been changes to the management, so we thought we'd give them another chance.At first we were to be seated in the larger dining area alone, but we asked to be on the bar side. They accommodated us without issue. To me the bar side is warmer in atmosphere and the Warriors were on the television. Thank you for that.Our server was attentive, friendly and had a great sense of humor. Our first surprise since our last visit, was the bread. Previously it was unappealing plain white bread, but now it is a very nice sourdough. It would have been even better warmed. We then ordered Clam Strips and Clam Chowder as appetizers. They were also much better than our last visit. While really good, the chowder needed more seasoning. We all hit it with S&P and it was great! One of my favorite appetizers was the crab cakes, If I have know they were that good, I would have ordered them as my entree'.We then ordered salad with our entree's. It was fresh and a nice companion to the main dish. I had the Cajun Scallop & Shrimp saute' and enjoyed every bite. My wife had the grilled prawns with garlic butter, also really good. And last, my son ordered the muscles. He said the muscles were good, but that he expected them in a cream sauce, whereas, the sauce was more of a light broth that needed to be doctored. That aside, a very nice dinner was enjoyed by us all. We will definitely be back!"

Anh Restaurant & Bar

★★★★☆ 3.9 (471) • $$

"We found this place by accident while taking a walk in the area. The view was wonderful and so was the food!! I can't wait to go back!"

Elbo Room Jack London

★★★★☆ 4.3 (36) • $

"friends and I were walking by heard the music spoke to the security very welcoming invited us to go in have a drink. staff was great and they had a delicious food vendor outside. free entry definitely a place to go hangout with friends and good drinks"

Hyde Park Lounge

★★★★☆ 4 (59) • $

"Awe yes, this place was the beginning of a wild night and a VERY rough Friday, ha! Here we go.We had started the night off at a different dive bar. Can't remember the name and it's not just because I was wasted, but that definitely ain't helping the situation! Anyway, got a pitcher there, chilled, moved on to good ol' Hyde Park Lounge.Grabbed another pitcher, Elysian Spacedust (not coke) probably. We're in the back on the patio, just me'n'mah boi hanging out. Funny enough, we saw several people this bar who migrated from the same bar that we just came from. One of the gentleman and my friend hit it off, and as we're hanging out in the back, I see the bar lady bringing a pitcher out toward us. No one's out there, just us, and I freaking IMMEDIATELY knew that dude was gonna be the death of us. So now we're 3 pitchers of Spacedust in and things are getting fuzzy.Then the shots start rolling in. Oh Jame-O, you dirty dingo. Well, that's pretty much when things started getting real blurry and funny stories were to be told come the morning, along with the pounding headache. Lovely.Anyway, it's a dive bar, bruh, if you have high expectations, maybe you oughtta stick to your bougie places cuz this ain't one of 'em! Awesome people, though, if you have an open mind.So let's get it, baby! Next round's on me ^_____^"

Berevino

★★★★☆ 3.7 (686) • $$

"Wonderful dinner here tonight. Wife had the chicken parm, I had the short rib papperdelle and son had the Meatza pizza. The food was outstanding. Really really good. Drinks were good as well. Service (Antonio?) was really attentive and good. Kills me that they are changing to become a kebab place. That's tragic!! Oh well. Glad we went before the change."

Club Tac

★★★★☆ 4 (53) • $

"Reopened. Regulars seem to be very happy to be back. Haven't noticed food or anything different, but there is way more room. I originally visited this place for the bullshooters dart boards. One connected online.I'm sure the rest will come in time. I'm just really glad they are back. The dive bar part seems to have gone but it was 3 p.m. so well have to visit later next time. Still a gem."

Delhi to Kathmandu

★★★★★ 4.6 (43) • $$

"Delicious did, beautifully decorated, and amazing service. Great with kids and fair prices for such a nice restaurant."

Lone Palm

★★★★☆ 3.8 (404) • $$

"What an unexpected treat to find a vintage Art Deco-style bar hidden in the Mission that evokes classic Manhattan nightclubs like El Morocco. I could even picture Barbra Streisand here brushing Robert Redford's hair off his forehead as she sighs his name in breathless pre-coital ecstasy..."Hubbell Gardiner". Loved "The Way We Were" but as usual, I digress. I showed up at 4PM, rather early for a cocktail, but...Oy, I was having such a day. The bartender just opened the front door, and the place was, of course, empty and quite dark . There were white tablecloths, aquamarine neon lighting, and potted palms with classic Trompe-l'œil images on the walls. The stylish decor required a cocktail that matched the mid-century mood. A $12 Makers Mark Manhattan (photo: https://bit.ly/44UpFyZ) was smooth and just the right libation. All they need is the Glenn Miller Orchestra.COCKTAIL - 5 stars...potent and classy cafe society drinkAMBIANCE - 5 stars...the vintage vibe really wooed me, and the lone palm is out on the sidewalkSERVICE - 4 stars...not too chattyTOTAL - 5 stars...meet me at El Morocco, soldierRELATED - Exploring the Mission? Here's a collection of places I've visited and reviewed: https://bit.ly/2NHtst6"

Off The Record

★★★★☆ 4 (226) • $$

"Craving butter chicken and went to Rangoli's only to find out they are no longer in business. So Yelp to the rescue! I been seeing adds for Off the Record, but never bit. I actually didn't realize it was Indian fare. They were closing in 52min and would reopen at dinner time. I was not waiting. Very cute location with cool outdoor seating/patio area. Walked in and felt kinda nightclub-ish. Lights were warm and inviting, walk up bar, nice padded booths. The menu is pretty vast. I can comfortably bring my vegan kid and we would both have lots of options. Great smells wafting from the kitchen. Ended up with butter chicken, butter naan and rice. I'll be back to update on the food. Update: butter chicken was just that...nice and buttery and creamy. And boneless. I have a dislike for bones. Nice chat to the meat and very tender. Basmati long grain and butter mama to go with it. I like my naan a bit more flavorful so I will try the garlic next time. All in all good experience. Will be back for the outside dining"

Acre Kitchen and Bar

★★★★☆ 3.8 (205)

"This place has the best skinny fries on the strip--they changed them once, and a lot of people weren't happy about it. Fortunately, they've somehow brought back what works. The restaurant consistently delivers fresh ingredients and interesting menu options. I especially enjoy their salads and rotating dishes. I've even had oysters and some delicious appetizers during happy hour. Overall, it's a great sit-down spot next to Market Hall--just be sure not to upset the lunch hostess by bringing and eating your Market Hall finds on their patio!"

Sessions on 15th

★★★★★ 4.8 (26)

"Sessions was on my list after seeing them on BoozieBrunch's IG Reels. Came by with some girlfriends to enjoy a night cap after our night out downtown.We were kind of confused upon entering, as we were the only people inside and the vibe was not disco ball fractured lights, spinning vinyls, or packed. BUT we were told that that's more of the weekend energy. So come on a weekday if you're a fan of having a more private bar experience (I'm all for it). We brought in our own food although the bar does partner with the restaurant next door, so you have options. We sat at the bar as those seats were more inviting, AND they have purse hooks. Restrooms are all genders and clean. Drinks were delish without the fanfare of the bougieness. My friends loved their old-fashioned and gin fizz. I really wanted to try the espresso martini as did my other friend, but we are not fans of vodka. And Vivi did us a solid and made it with mezcal. MM! So smoky, so unique. Brava.Vivi was the star of the night. Vivi was our bartender and kept us laughing and intrigued, sharing about the artist that created Sessions' eye-catching vinyl afro mural and the exciting music events on weekends. Parking was a-plenty on a late weekday evening (after 6pm), highly recommend Session's for a night cap on a chill weekday. The art and music are *chefs kiss* you won't catch them spinning top40 here which is SWEET SERENITY to our ears."

Low Bar

★★★★☆ 4.2 (165) • $$

"Someone referred us to Low Bar on a local FB page...so glad he did! We went there for an early dinner before a concert at the Fox a couple weeks ago. Loved it and went back last weekend with our 28-year old niece. The food AND service were great! We ordered several different things and shared. Got a second order of a couple things!Low Bar has a casual local hangout kind of feel with a good vibe. Love the Photo Booth! The first time we took BART and walked; last weekend we parked in the public lot across the street. The lot can be reasonable ($5?); however, if there's a 'special event' at the Paramount, the fee is a flat $20. We are older than what appeared to be their usual demographic (we're in our early 60's); nevertheless, we felt comfortable and had a great time!Looking forward to going back!"

Blue Rabbit Bar

★★★★★ 4.6 (17)

"First time I've ever wanted to gate keep because boy is this a hidden gem! This is the second time I've been influenced to come out to Richmond/San Pablo for a new spot, but unlike another spot this place met and exceeded expectations. So glad there's a lounge with good eats in the area. Spot is in an unassuming plaza with a small parking lot, but in the middle of the week twas no issue. Came to catch up with an old friend and we both left pleasantly surprised, starting with seating. They have a window bar with stools literally outside which made me think this could be a dog friendly out there but not certain. Anyway we chose to eat inside and ordered food and drinks. Everything was delicious ... the queso fundido, the tomatillo soup, the slushies... I'd reorder all of them but truth be told I probably won't just to taste what else is good. Will definitely be back and can't wait!"

Red Sea Restaurant and Bar

★★★★☆ 3.8 (281) • $$

"Seemed like a good idea because it had so many food options but it was fair. Prices were decent but it didn't have the real Ethiopian flavor that I'm used to. They didn't even put the beef awaze on top of the injera in the box?!?The injera also was lacking something but not sure what since I don't make it. Overall, it was decent but I don't think I would try it again. The chicken sambusca had a great crisp but also lacking on flavor. My friend had the fried green tomatoes with crabmeat but said it had an odd "too crabby" taste."

Ivy Room

★★★★☆ 4.1 (94) • $$

"I have been coming to the Ivy Room for a few years now. It is truly one of the best music venues in the bay area. The owners are wonderful people and the space is perfect - small venue so you can enjoy the bands up close and personal.They have a really nice bar. The bartenders are always great. Last night I let the bartender choose my whiskey and she picked a winner. Drink was delicious and not overly priced.Parking is usually relatively easy especially compared to San Francisco. Crowd is eclectic and always a bit different depending on the band, but always friendly and warm. I think a lot of neighborhood people go there. I'm so happy that they have managed to survive Covid. I know it was touch and go there for a little bit and I encourage people to go there and see live music. It's so worth it.!"

Rye

★★★★☆ 4 • $$

"Endless love for Rye, Eric the bartender, & Weiner Wednesdays for being there for me when my friends & I first moved into the city. I discovered Rye on FunCheapSF when they were promoting their Weiner Wednesdays, where you get a free hotdog with every Tequila drink purchase. We loved how empty it was on Wednesday nights and would come every Wednesday for MONTHS. They are known for their wide whiskey selection and I'm not much of a whiskey person but their cocktails are amazing & there is definitely something for everyone. I personally am a big fan of the Khaosan Tea (a Thai tea + vanilla Bourbon drink) and Bees & Toes (an herby, honey lavendar gin drink). I also became a big, big fan of Japanese whiskey because of Rye!Super elegant and dark space with a good amount of indoor seating + a gated outdoor area. Sometimes they project a movie on the wall or a DJ plays in the back. During Halloween & Christmas, they will decorate the place and bartenders wear cute gimmicky costumes. Their menu also changed often for the holidays. A very dog-friendly space!Location is a little rough at night, luckily very accessible to me via the 38/38R bus line. When coming via car, we haven't had trouble finding parking but definitely not the safest area to leave your car. Haven't run into any issues or dangerous situations at all though.Definitely recommend!"

Bearing West

★★★★★ 4.7 (118)

"Perfect all around. We will be back. Excellent food and service. Fish wete perfectly cooked. Thank you for a delightful evening!"

Casa Azteca

★★★★☆ 3.9 • $$

"Thanks to our friends, we visited this amazing restaurant. My son was amazed with the name and kept thinking about the colonial era. He enjoyed the wall paintings. I would say, we all did as well. Beautiful!!!! Let's get to food. I ordered shrimp fajitas which was delicious and generous portion. The refried beans and tortillas were okay. For the first time, my daughter ordered Mexican pizza. Not sure, if she'll ever order again. And to my surprise they had chicken wings on the menu. It's a Mexican restaurant. My son ended up getting chicken wings but it had no Mexican flavors. My husband ordered pork fajitas however he found it dry. Customer service was great. Yesterday was National Margarita Day. We did celebrate by ordering house Margarita's which delicious. Totally recommending the margarita. And try the guacamole dip. You will love the crunchy chips. Overall, awesome experience."

The Sherwood Cocktails and Lounge

★★★★☆ 4.1 (50) • $$

"Nicole and Tanya are the best!! Such an amazing neighborhood bar. Classy and yet familiar!!"

Flores Emeryville

★★★★☆ 3.9 (194) • $$

"Was in the mood for Mexican food and one my colleagues suggested we come here for lunch. She had tried them out on a past visit and recalls how really good her meal was.Walked in on a very quiet Election Day and got seated immediately. Table for 3 was available right away. I automatically took notice of the amount of Tequila Brands the bar had. Was I thinking of Margarita's or what! Complimentary chips were served, it had a light vinegar flavor to it. I ordered their Enchiladas Rojas de Pollo. The menu said it contained spicy salsa ranchera, but it was mild flavor. We ordered a pitcher of classica margarita which was about 4 servings, perfect for a simple happy hour.Our food was delicious. Service was very friendly. Location was perfect. Price is affordable. I'd return here on my next visit."

51 & Tel

★★★★★ 4.6 (13)

"Love this new spot! Cool vibes, great cocktail selection, huge outdoor patio (heated!), and they have a DJ on weekends. Thanks to Ben for opening which will definitely become one of our new favorite spots in the neighborhood!"

Reception

★★★★☆ 4.3 (15)

"Nice........and.........well decorated.........friendly staff..........overall great........highly recommend"

Penelope

★★★★☆ 4.2 (216) • $$

"Such a great find. We stumbled upon this spot last Saturday and couldn't have been happier. Shocked to hear they had been open so long. Great vibe and awesome bartender."

W XYZ Bar

★★★★☆ 4.1 (33) • $$

"Sorry to say, this place had gone way downhill on my last visit. Since Marriott took over, the W XYZ branding is gone and it's just "Aloft." The soggy fries were more like any other restaurant, and the soda was noticeably watered down. The steak cut has been downgraded to ribeye.I'm glad I was able to enjoy it when Starwood was striving to bring a premium experience to budget-conscious consumers. Now the budget part is more painfully obvious, and where I had gone out of my way to visit before, it now feels like an overpriced Denny's. Bye, Felicia."

Warehouse Cafe

★★★★☆ 4 (406) • $$

"Definitely worth the drive and cook unique iconic location . Recommend going on a Friday or Saturday night and order the prime rib dinner. Note they are cash only but they have an ATM onsite.Be sure to stop by the whimsical gift shop while you're there. You won't find any other place like this place"

Napa Yard

★★★★☆ 3.8 (126) • $$

"It's digital, so bring yo phone!Our first time experiencing Napa Yard and it was legit. We were welcomed when we came in and we're given a run down on how things work. 1. We pick anywhere we want to eat.2. We scan the QR to order food and drinks and then it appears relatively quickly. You can choose weather to run a tab or keep it open for you and your crew. Great place for kids, groups, and pets. Nice view of big screens for the games as well."