“We dropped into Baxter's randomly last night and we're lucky enough to be seated in the speakeasy. This was a side room of the restaurant but also a world away! The atmosphere was amazing, plush, comfortable and yet sleek with a bit of a club feel. Then the food! Not only was it beautiful in presentation but absolutely delicious. My husband had the lamb and practically licked the plate clean he loved it so much. The scallops were also amazing and not over sauced. Both came with mashed potatoes and veggies which at most restaurants aren't that great, Baxter's however made these side dishes equally fresh and appealing. Their bartender knew what he was doing and made some great martinis as well. Overall it was an excellent experience, highly recommended! Usually I'd have to go to SF to get this kind of service, food and atmosphere.“
“Amidst the bustling traffic in El Cerrito, there's a hidden gem and a recent addition to the area. Blink and you'll miss it. Even during a brief pause at a stop light when there's a chance to look around, it's highly probable that you'll still miss it. There's no signage on the building itself, so look for the wine barrels sitting on the sidewalk as your clue, or perhaps you'll spot their small sandwich board just outside their front door. Find parking somewhere near 10368 San Pablo Avenue, the address to Banter, a wine bar with a warm atmosphere, welcoming decor, and communal tables. Offering a curated selection of old and new world wines, Banter focuses on small producers who prioritize minimal intervention from vineyard to bottle. On location, you can purchase a bottle from the shelves to enjoy at home or savor a glass (or bottle) in-house. If you need something to eat while you're there, choose from various delicious snacks including cheese, charcuterie, and other tasty treats. During the pandemic, while drinking wine and eating cheese in their backyard, owners Claire and Devin were inspired to open a wine bar, but they wanted their wine bar to feel like "home," - comfy, casual, no frills, just...chill. A collection of cozy couches in the back creates an ambiance reminiscent of enjoying a drink in the living room of your most stylish friend. Classic VHS tapes and 80's knick-knacks are precariously stacked high next to small vintage TVs playing films that will take you back in time. When I was last there the original Flash Gordon was playing. You probably won't get to hear any of the movie dialogue because the bar is spinning LPs from an ever-expanding vinyl collection, fueled by contributions from patrons. A pinball machine in the back room adds to the decor's nostalgic charm and provides an entertaining distraction between pours. With a partial kitchen, Banter partners with local talent and the community to create new opportunities by featuring "pop-ups" - temporary restaurants that allow chefs and restaurateurs to try out a new neighborhood, experiment with their menu, generate a following, or just get some great experience for their staff. During my most recent visit, I got a front-row seat at the bar to witness Chef Emmanual from the restaurant Bolita work his magic with fresh masa, a must-have ingredient at the center of all his signature dishes. Most notable was the Tamal de Calabaza which featured squash masa, mole negro tamal, roasted kabocha, and cashew crema. A nice compliment was the Papas Rositazadas, simple roasted potatoes with black garlic aioli. Both were deliciously elevated and beautifully plated for such a casual environment. Unfortunately by the time you read this Bolita would have moved on to their next location but you can track them down on their website at www.bolitamasa.com. Banter will continue to feature pop-ups and to find out what's in store next visit their location or follow their Instagram @banter_winebar. As temporary as the pop-up food concept is, Banter is hopefully here for good as they focus on what's most important, which is most fittingly stated by the intentionally sloppy, hand-painted sign in front, "Bad Signs, Good Wigns!"“
“Live Band Karaoke with THE LOST WEEkENDs was exceptionally fun! The band are VERY talented musicians and they work hard to give each 'guest' singer a good experience.The crowd at the IVY ROOM was very supportive (and forgiving!) and the staff was enthusiastic,and charming as usual.Aside from the live band part, it differed from regular karaoke in that the lyrics you are reading do not alert you to a starting point where you should start singing. They ARE on anIpad, but it's pretty much just the same as holding a piece of paper with lyrics printed on it. I suggest going to the band's website, finding the link to their list of Karaoke covers and practicing a little with a YouTube karaoke video of that song beforehand-if you don't know the song you want to perform really well already.I can't wait to go back, I hope the LosT WeeKends return to The Ivy Room soon !“
Italian • $$
“I intended on trying something new and ordered the Salmon Caperi. I just had an unexplainable taste for something that the dish Perfectly satisfied. Great atmosphere for a stormy day made for a perfect silver lining as well. Divine dining!!“
Peruvian • $$
“We had reservations for 6 of us.Menus were on tablets that were on the table for guest to viewWe order appetizers plus 6 main dishes.Every dish was beautifully presented and very delicious.Our waiter was funny, helpful and polite in our likes and dislikes.He was very attentive to our needs which made our first time very memorable..The Flan dessert was so good and tasty.I will definitely go back.Extra points for having easy parking too.Kid-friendliness: They have high chairs and welcome families with toddlers“
“Taking time to say goodbye to a classic. Chevys is closing at least two more local locations in my area, so won't have the opportunity dine here anymore.We had to have one last meal at this fun chain restaurant. We both had plates of their delicious fajitas. One steak and chicken, one carnitas and pork belly.The chips and salsa have always been so good and we added a small bowl of the creamy guac to top it off.And of course a margarita had to accompany the meal... ?Will miss this place.“
“Ok so stumbled in to this place after work on a Friday accidentally Anyway was looking for a thrift store had heard about they weren't there any more .... Probably Covid! Lame! Back to this place it f'ing rocks, the bartender is awesome . The people that are customers were so nice to me, I had a great time. Go check it out!“
“When I first entered toots I thought it was rather small. I had no idea there was a back room for shows! The place is actually pretty nice and has ample space inside. Parking is a little tricky and the sidewalks are rather high as my friend fell off of one of them. I recommend this place for good shows and great gatherings'n“
“We love middle Eastern food. Zaytoon has the best variety and taste. I was treat for Iftar. Thank you so much.Vegetarian options: Hummus, tabola, musaka, felafel, soup.Wheelchair accessibility: Yes it's easy to get around the restaurant.“
“Such a cool treasure!The location is a historical neighborhood with a view of San Pablo Bay and train line.Staff were fun, engaging and welcoming.Wish we had 3 more hours to take in all the tchotchkes and historical pieces.The Warehouse is a rare and special gem.“
“A very warm and inviting atmosphere. I went there with my daughter. The drinks were great and the bartender was very pleasant and easy to talk to. I felt very comfortable there and seeing everyone else comfortable,engaged in pleasant conversations. They also have a drag show which I think is twice a month that I definitely plan on seeing.“
“I had a great time last night out with my sisters. It's been a while since I've been here but a good time was truly had. There's a new proprietor and new bartenders. Moe is still there but not alllll night. She closed her shift around 9. Seems like a new party crowd mixed the the old timers... a DJ showed up and so did security and a doorman that charged admission after 9 or 10. I loved the upgrades to the back patio area.“
“Typically neighborhood bar. No food served. Basic fun place. Ppl come here to watch the games, have a great time, and live their life. I'm not too impressed but it will work while I wait for a friend. I'm early for the Halloween Party“
“It is great to have them back after 2 years. It is very affordable the staff helps you as soon as possible and the sound system is really good. You can really feel the music as it is nicely played. Also they update new songs asap so you will get to sing most new songs.“
“Anne is the sweetest! It's a nice quiet bar and everyone is super friendly. There's a pool table too. Its chill bar to go to for a quick drink and to watch the game in peace. Definitely recommended for those who want to relax after a long day and not have to worry about the overly drunk people.“
“It was my first time at the Beverly Elks Lodge. The have a full bar and kitchen if you're hungry. I was there because on Wednesday nights, for a nominal charge of $10, they teach Chicago Style Steppin' . I has a great time and met some new friends. I can't wait to go back next week.“
“Really great bar food and spot to watch a game. Lots if TVs and friendly staff. We went when they were swamped and had to wait a good while for food, but that was OK because we were in the mood to chill. Wait was worth it. My wife was obsessed with the chicken club sandwich.“