Lounges near Berkeley, CA

“If you're in the mood for a great night out, this bar is a hidden gem that delivers in both food and atmosphere. As soon as you walk through the door, you're greeted by a warm, inviting ambiance. The lighting is soft but not too dim, the décor is cozy yet stylish, and the sound level strikes a perfect balance — lively enough to feel energizing, but quiet enough to carry on a conversation without shouting.

The food is what truly sets this place apart. While many bars serve standard snacks or pre-packaged appetizers, this one takes its menu seriously. Every dish is thoughtfully prepared and packed with flavor. The appetizers, including hummus and pita, or seasoned steak or chicken skewers are perfect for sharing over drinks.

The bar staff is friendly and knowledgeable, happy to recommend drinks based on your preferences or suggest food pairings. The cocktail list is creative and the beer selection is varied, making it easy to find something that suits your taste.

What makes this bar truly special, though, is its welcoming atmosphere. The staff makes an effort to connect with patrons, and it’s clear that regulars are made to feel like family. Whether you’re there for a casual drink, a light meal, or a night out with friends, this bar hits all the right notes. It’s a place that feels like a home away from home — comfortable, fun, and full of great vibes.

Highly recommended for anyone looking for delicious food, a great drink, and a place where they can relax and enjoy the company of others!“

“Things haven’t gotten going yet so you can still make it.“

“This is a lovely little wine bar! Excellent selection, and the owner was kind enough to put together a little charcuterie board for one person (although the normal size serves 2-3).

I highly recommend stopping by for a glass and a nibble if you’re shopping in the area - very relaxing space.“

“Lovely venue and great service!“

“Got drinks here after dinner in the neighborhood and we were extremely impressed with the quality and inventiveness of the cocktails on offer. If you’ve been to East Bay Spice Company then you know the kind of creativity they offer- it’s the same situation here but closer to downtown. We loved our servers and would absolutely come back for drinks.“

“I don't go to Julia's for lunch very often but had lunch there with two good friends recently. The food was excellent (echoed by my two friends) and the atmosphere was relaxed and relatively quiet even the the restaurant was quite busy. I'll be back for lunch.“

“so fun With our friends. I hope to see you guys all soon.“

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“Always an interesting experience and fun treat. Classic cocktails in a classic atmosphere. Service is on point! Food is innovative yet still comforting and familiar. Never disappointed.“

“Go to this place if you want to hear some blues on a Saturday nite. The jam starts at 6. Bring your harmonica, bass, sax, etc and play some blues. The local talent is dope! Get a stiff drink or two and chill.“

“Marianne's was absolutely amazing!! I went with a couple friends for my birthday and our bartender/waiter Chris made the night so special. The food was absolutely delicious, drinks were perfect, and got the cutest photos ever. Would 100% come again.“

“The lounge is nice and warmly lit with football games playing on TVs near the bar counter. We had a few bar snacks to go with our Presidio Fall Spritz and Affogato. The drinks were excellent all around. They were, however, very expensive with the spritz coming in at $30. I suppose that is to be expected when you have a drink at the Ritz so I won’t hold it against them.“

“Every time I’m in Oakland, I make a point to swing by FLUID510. It’s one of those rare spots that keeps you guessing—in the best way possible. One day it’s R&B dancing, the next it’s a stand-up comedy set or a full-blown drag performance. It’s not just a restaurant. It’s not just a lounge. It’s an experience. The energy shifts, but the hospitality never does. The staff is warm, welcoming, and many of them have been part of the vibe since day one. Whether you’re grabbing dinner or stumbling into an unexpected dance lesson, FLUID510 always delivers something unforgettable.“

“Great people, great cocktails and great music all in a relaxed and rustic environment.“

“I hit this bar anytime I’m in the area. Quirky, friendly, funny… perfect! It’s a full bar so you can get all sorts of cocktails made, or just have a bottle of Buddha beer in the green bottle. Definitely worth a stop if you’re in the area.“

“I came for the Silent Book Club. It seems to be a nice place. I didn't order anything at this visit. We were in a room in the back and were given water and small snacks. The bar seems to be a place with a bit of an intellectual vibe and seems inviting. Maybe it would be nice to return for some of its offerings.“

“The View Lounge is an absolute must-visit when in San Francisco and easily one of the most memorable bar experiences in the city.

Perched high above the skyline on the 39th floor, the panoramic views are simply breathtaking—especially as the sun sets and the city lights begin to sparkle. Floor-to-ceiling windows give you that “wow” moment the second you walk in, and it’s easy to see why this spot is so popular with both visitors and locals.

The cocktails are just as impressive. The margaritas in particular are outstanding—beautifully balanced, expertly made, and definitely on the stronger side. If you’re not a big drinker, one is more than enough to enjoy the experience, which actually adds to the value given the quality and strength.

The atmosphere strikes a perfect balance between sophisticated and relaxed, making it ideal for everything from a special night out to simply soaking in the view with friends. It’s not just about having a drink—it’s about the entire experience.

Yes, it’s a little on the pricier side, but between the stunning outlook, quality cocktails, and unique setting, it’s absolutely worth it. A standout destination that truly lives up to its name.

The The View Lounge sits on the top floor of the San Francisco Marriott Marquis.

It’s located on the 39th floor, which is why you get those incredible panoramic views over San Francisco. The hotel itself is that distinctive tall building with a curved, modern design in the SoMa district—hard to miss.

If you go, try to time it just before sunset so you can enjoy both daylight views and the city lights coming on!!

There staff are friendly. It does get busy around 5pm especially on Fridays and weekends but they seem to cope. It’s worth going for the view. Surprisingly, regular visitors, visitors who are there weekly, don’t seek to know about this bar 😱. I’m okay with that! I always get the best seat!!! Lovely place!“

“Just come! See you there 👍🏾🎱“

“★★★★★
I had a fantastic experience at Parkway Lounge! The atmosphere was relaxed and welcoming, the staff was friendly and attentive, and the drinks were great. It’s a perfect spot to unwind, enjoy good company, and have a laid-back night out. The overall vibe is comfortable and inviting. I highly recommend Parkway Lounge to anyone looking for a great local bar!“

“Amazing staff. Lovely owners out of this work drinks and mock tails and the plants !!!!“

“Johnathan who was clearing glassware was very friendly and on top of his job and the bartender whose name I believe is Jake was great and very helpful with helping us choose cocktails we enjoyed! The live music was phenomenal, lively without being overwhelming. Shoutout to the guys at @magicschoolbusk on instagram. Definitely a must stop when your in SF.“

“Enjoy the atmosphere and the tasty food !“

“Great service and breakfast!!“

“Deliciously vicious cocktails“

“Nice bar and really like the roof fan“

“Fun time and great cocktails and food come here with your friends for sure.“

“⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Double Standard delivers an exceptional dining and bar experience with creative cocktails, flavorful food, and a stylish, energetic atmosphere. Every dish and drink is thoughtfully prepared, well-balanced, and consistently enjoyable.
The vibe is modern, lively, and welcoming—perfect for a night out with friends, a casual date, or simply enjoying great food and drinks in a vibrant setting. It has a unique personality that makes every visit feel special.
The staff is friendly, attentive, and professional, ensuring smooth service and a comfortable experience from start to finish. Their hospitality adds to the overall enjoyment of the venue.
If you’re looking for great cocktails, delicious food, and a fun, upbeat atmosphere, The Double Standard is a fantastic choice. Highly recommended and well deserving of five stars! 🌟🍸✨“

“Great bar and bartender! Arno was a pure gentleman! Great spot for a late night drink after the crowds have cleared North Beach. We were the only two people in there on NYD at midnight but the bartender made us feel welcome and happily gave us great service even though the streets were dead. He also pointed us to a premium sandwich shop for lunch the next day. $14 specialty cocktails and $5 beers too!“

“Historical significance with Jack Kerouac and very cool looking. Great location.“

“😃🥰nice place for cocktails“

“Novela is such a great spot. The library-themed decor is super cozy and gives the bar a really intimate, laid-back vibe—perfect for a chill drink that can easily turn into a longer night. It feels stylish without trying too hard.

The drinks are amazing, especially the punch-on-tap flight. Fun flavors, generous pours, and definitely worth sharing. Easily one of my favorite bars in SF and a place I’d always come back to.“

“I could not have enjoyed my stay at the Hyatt Regency SF more than I did. Exceptional friendly staff and the room I had at the top of the world with a world class view of the Bay , stunning. . . . Not inexpensive but if you can afford a room here with a water view, , do not hesitate. Ferry building across the street is fun to browse and the boardwalk wonderfully walkable/runable.“

“Beautiful space. Alicia and her team are lovely hosts as well. I’ll be back again soon!“

“I love performing their can't wait to go back“

“Great views, great staff, great food, and great drinks. Loved the decor and atmosphere. Would recommend and will return. Enjoyed the DJ, my favorite drinks were the Love Cats and Mr. Jinks. We shared several plates and the pork belly skewers, the pretzels (the mustard and pimento stuff was delish) and the asparagus salad were all amazing.“

“Great cocktails and service, not a massive venue so would be perfect to have a cocktail party“

“Orafo is a hidden gem perched above San Francisco’s Financial District — a restaurant that blends California boldness with classic Italian soul, all wrapped in Four Seasons elegance. I came here for two breakfasts and one indulgent lunch, and each meal was a perfect mix of thoughtful preparation, fresh ingredients, and flawless service.

The space itself is stunning: airy and sunlit during the day, warm and intimate at night. Whether you're seated by the windows or tucked into a cozy banquette, it feels like a refined escape from the busy city below.

Must-orders: the seafood soup — rich, comforting, and full of depth — and the perfectly seared steak, which was easily one of the best I’ve had in SF. Everything from the plating to the pacing felt intentional and quietly luxurious.

Whether you're staying at the hotel or not, Orafo is absolutely worth a visit. It’s effortlessly chic, never pretentious, and ideal for anything from business meetings to slow, indulgent meals above the city.“

“Very cozy place with a warm and inviting atmosphere. The hi-fi music setup creates a relaxed vibe without overpowering conversation, and the bar is beautifully done with great drink options.

It’s honestly one of the best spots in Oakland for a date night or meaningful conversation.“

“Finally came and was pleased with service! Expectations is low from previous experiences but the vive ans ambiance is so nice, I stopped by for a stiff drink (I knew to stick to shots...actually had a beautiful and it was perfectly beautifully) and service was pleasant! To bad Google don't have stars for beverages...lol“

“Nice atmosphere, friendly staff.“

“Low key, relaxed vibe, cool tunes, best drinks. And a stellar taco truck in the parking lot. Very friendly staff. 5 stars all day, every day.“

“VERY nice bar tucked off in Albany, inside is a wooded theme fireplace, candle lit tables with umbrellas outback on the patio. They have games like checkers, pool etc,. Super low-key but very chill-romantic vibe. I enjoyed myself and will be back again.“

“Kava is a new thing for me. To be honest, I'm still not sure about the taste. But the culture here is amazing. I found myself having actually-delightful conversations with the folks around me, and my date and I really enjoyed being able to curl up on a convenient couch and chat just by ourselves, too. The staff was incredibly knowledgeable and kind, and even gave us a few samples of things so we were able to follow along with our senses.“