11 Best Bars in Berkeley

“Henry's Bar & Restaurant offers a lively and retro-inspired atmosphere for a Saturday night out. The food menu features a great selection, with dishes that are described as delicious. The beer and drink options are also praised as being above par. While the service can be a bit slow at times, especially when the restaurant is busy, the staff is reported to be friendly. The establishment seems to have a mix of mid-lifers and students, creating a unique Berkeley vibe. Overall, Henry's provides a pleasant dining and drinking experience, with a nostalgic appeal for those familiar with the local area.“

“East Bay Spice Company offers a chill ambiance, perfect for a date night with great cocktails, service, and food. The staff, like Danny, provides excellent service, making the dining experience enjoyable. Despite minor incidents like misplacing items, the overall satisfaction with the food meets expectations. The restaurant is recommended for those looking for a good meal and a relaxing atmosphere.“

“Study Hall Rooftop Lounge offers wonderful service, particularly from Yuki, who provides attentive and joyful care. The menu accommodates dietary restrictions with great food and drink options, including delicious wings. While prices may be high, the rooftop atmosphere and excellent service make it worth a return visit.“

“Ippuku is a popular spot with a cool atmosphere, especially around the bar. The menu offers a variety of options, including vegetarian and gluten-free choices. The black pork belly is a standout favorite, and the crab croquette is also a must-try. With a focus on fresh ingredients, the restaurant serves dishes individually, including korokke, dashi maki, bekon mochi, negiyaki, and buta bara.“

“Bear's Lair is a great spot for a delicious meal. The menu features amazing pizza and fries, as well as unique options like the Kale Salad and Brisket Sandwich. The staff are friendly and attentive, providing exceptional service. Happy hour is a great deal, and the chef's talents shine through in every dish. With a remarkably hardworking team, Bear's Lair is a must-visit before a show or anytime for a tasty meal.“

“Tipsea is a top-notch establishment in Berkeley, offering exceptional service and high-quality drinks. The warm and hospitable staff, including Gabriel, Shilo, Felix, and Chloe, go above and beyond to ensure a fantastic experience. The menu features delicious options like lemon pepper wings and fish and chips, served until 1:30 am. The drinks are expertly crafted and bursting with flavor, with both classic cocktails and specialty creations available. While it can get chilly inside during winter, the friendly bartenders and excellent service make it a great spot to relax and enjoy a great time.“

“Cali's Sports Bar & Kitchen is a new establishment that has recently opened its doors. Located in a prime spot, this restaurant offers a diverse menu and a lively atmosphere, catering to both daytime and nighttime crowds. The reviews suggest that the restaurant has a welcoming staff who are attentive to customers' needs. The ordering process is convenient, with the option to order at kiosks or the register. The atmosphere, while a bit loud, is described as having a vibrant energy, with a full bar upstairs and the potential for a dance floor downstairs. The food offerings have received mixed reviews. While the fried chicken sandwich and shroom burger were praised for their taste, one customer found the portion sizes to be small and the chicken sandwich to be bland. However, the reviewer acknowledged that it was the restaurant's first day of operation, and they remained optimistic about the establishment's future potential. Overall, Cali's Sports Bar & Kitchen appears to be a promising new addition to the local dining scene, offering a lively atmosphere and a diverse menu that, with some refinement, could become a popular destination for both casual lunches and lively nightlife.“

“Acme Bar & Company is a warm, cozy spot with friendly staff and great clientele. The inside is amazing with low lighting and awesome bartenders. They offer a wide selection of whiskeys and creative bartenders who can make drinks for you. While the food options are limited, they have unique choices like Ritz crackers, potato chips, and pimento cheese. The bar also features drink specials during happy hour and a fun crowd. Whether you want to learn about whiskey or simply enjoy a relaxing evening, Acme Bar & Company is the place to be.“

“Spats Berkeley offers excellent drinks and service in a chill atmosphere, making it a refreshing spot to unwind. Knowledgeable bartenders craft great cocktails, and a diverse beer selection is available. Happy hour prices are offered until 6pm daily. Although food options are limited, great food pop-ups are available, and the kind staff adds to the welcoming vibe.“

“Raleigh's Pub offers a lively atmosphere, with a great selection of craft beers and outdoor seating. The menu features a Club sandwich, Tex-Mex salad, and tacos, though the reviews are mixed - the carnitas were a bit bland, and the birria tacos were disappointing. However, the $6 margaritas on Taco Tuesday provide a quintessential Berkeley undergrad experience.“

“The Tap Haus at UC Berkeley offers top-notch drinks at great prices. The bartenders provide excellent service, creating a cool and friendly vibe. With an abundance of pool tables, it's the perfect spot for a chill night out. Highly recommended for those looking for a great selection of drinks and a fun atmosphere.“