50 Best Bars in Oakland

The Double Standard Bar • $
2424 Telegraph Ave, Oakland

Customers` Favorites

Grilled Mac and Cheese
Tap Cocktails
Kettle Chips

“I thought this would be a dime a dozen dive bar type spot, but thankfully I was wrong. It was pretty poppin for a Monday evening, but not enough to where it was overwhelming. The trees are fantastic, and the cocktails were actually good! We even got a nifty NA cocktail as a nightcap. I'll be coming back next time I'm in the area.“

4.6 Superb46 Reviews
2

Odin

Odin Mexican • $$
444 Oak St, Oakland

Customers` Favorites

Chicharrón \u0026 Guacamole
Guacamole with Chichirrones
Chicharrón & Guacamole
Tamales with Mole Sauce
Beef Barbacoa Empanada
Tostadas Con Guacamole
Ceviche Tacos Dorados
Chicken Wings Bravas
Chips and Salsa
Flan De Canote

“How cool that this Oakland gem has adapted during the pandemic! All of the delicious drinks and all kinds of new menu items all for take-out in...wait for it...compostable containers...even the bottles the drinks come in! Please support this sustainability-minded, amazing and delicious restaurant. They have a few outdoor tables, too. Go. Go now!“

4.5 Superb64 Reviews
Cafe Van Kleef Cocktail Bar • $
1621 Telegraph Ave, Oakland

“A unique place that offers a fun respite from the usual watering hole. The signature here is to serve drinks with a freshly squeezed grapefruit twist. There is also an engaging I-spy game utilizing the rich decor inside that guests can play for a chance to win a prize. The service was very friendly and we all had a great time!“

4.5 Superb40 Reviews
Bar Shiru Bar • $$
1611 Telegraph Ave #100, Oakland

Customers` Favorites

Japanese Whiskey Flight
Ki No Tea Gun

“I've never been to a bar I've liked more. Everything about my experience was top shelf. The service was impeccable - attentive, engaging, and helpful. The listening experience was divine. The interior decor was a perfectly executed intersection of mid-century modern and industrial. What isn't to love? A gem.“

4.5 Superb95 Reviews
Redfield Cider Bar & Bottle Shop Bar • $$
5815 College Ave, Oakland

Customers` Favorites

Cider Flights Available
Fruity

“An incredible spot to enjoy some top quality draft ciders. I'm not an expert on ciders by any means, but I've had some incredible stuff here (I've particularly loved anything I've had from Yonder). The vibes here are great, the bartenders are lovely, and they have some great merch for sale! My mom who visits from out of state has bought a tote bag, hat, and sweatshirt from Redfield just so she can flex to her friends back home how awesome this bar is. If you enjoy cider, or even if you just want to stop in for a quick beer, this is a great and classy place to come to. Love Redfield!“

4.9 Superb32 Reviews
The Avenue Bar Bar • $
4822 Telegraph Ave, Oakland

“Halloween vibes year around!“

4.7 Superb42 Reviews
Night Heron Bar • $
1780 Telegraph Ave, Oakland

“We stopped in because this place is located across the street from the Fox Theater and we were seeing a concert. What a terrific find. Fantastic cocktails, wonderful bartenders, and you can order food from a Japanese restaurant next door and they deliver it to you at the bar. Enjoyed a wonderful bento box with gyoza, seaweed salad, and fried chicken.“

4.6 Superb47 Reviews
North Light Bar • $$
4915 Telegraph Ave, Oakland

Customers` Favorites

Pulled Pork Sandwich
Castelvetrano Olives
Kale Caesar
Bruschetta
Classic
Tots

“They're always so nice to me here! Mama loves the craft cocktails and the book curations. We live nearby so it's a favorite neighborhood hang, and we appreciate all the thought that went into the menus.“

4.4 Superb80 Reviews
High 5ive Rooftop Bar Bar • $$
437 25th St, Oakland

Customers` Favorites

Chipotle Honey Wings
Baked Pretzel Bites
Prosciutto Sliders
The Beautiful Ones

“A beautiful place with a great vibe, delicious food, and AMAZING drinks.“

3 Average41 Reviews
The Barbary Bar • $
3332 Grand Ave, Oakland

“The best! I highly recommend you make a visit and enjoy good company.“

4.4 Superb58 Reviews
11

sandbar

sandbar Bar • $
2418 Broadway, Oakland

Customers` Favorites

Gorilla Milk to Go
House Made Sangria
Iced Coffee

“This was my first time in this establishment. There's actually sand on the floor/ground! ID is checked at the door. We sat at the bar. Our bartender was great! She's a great mixologist, hilarious conversationalist, and an asset to the Sandbar.“

4.5 Superb39 Reviews
The Lodge Bar • $
3758 Piedmont Ave, Oakland

Customers` Favorites

Chicken Wangs
Free Popcorn
Cupcakes

“Nice atmosphere, friendly staff.“

4.6 Superb28 Reviews
Tiger's Taproom Bar • $
308 Jackson St #4, Oakland

Customers` Favorites

Street Tacos

“Great bar and good food trucks out front“

4.6 Superb24 Reviews
Elbo Room Jack London Bar • $
311 Broadway, Oakland

“Best bartenders, awesome owners, killer sound and all around good times always!“

4.6 Superb23 Reviews
Merchants' Saloon Bar • $
Shasta Produce, 401 2nd St, Oakland

“A fun dive bar with kind and friendly staff“

4.3 Superb46 Reviews
Wolfhound Bar Bar • $
5516 San Pablo Ave, Oakland

Customers` Favorites

Mighty Dry Cider

“Best quiz in Oakland! Wednesday night“

4.3 Superb37 Reviews
Gold Palm Bar • $$
1900 Telegraph Ave, Oakland

“Love this new spot in Oakland. Came from SF to try-it out. Great small plate food options for family style eating, really well balanced cocktails and super friendly staff. It’ll be my new meetup spot for any shows at the Fox. There is also a door at the back that leads into a separate space , darker lit speakeasy called moon glow.“

4.3 Superb34 Reviews
Rockridge Improvement Club Bar • $
5515 College Ave, Oakland

“Fantastic neighborhood bar. Full of fun people, great entertainment from karaoke to drag shows, live music and DJs. Trivia, skee ball and arcade games. And now bingo. Love the staff and owner.“

4.2 Good47 Reviews
Heart & Dagger Saloon Bar • $
504 Lake Park Ave, Oakland

Customers` Favorites

Garlic Rice
Jameson

“If you've ever been to Heart and Dagger, then you know it's a quintessential Oakland dive bar.
No fancy frills or eccentric cocktail menus. Just decently priced booze, good music, and plenty of space for good company. The back patio is rather large and a cute little hangout spot with a gorgeous tree and some cool old signage! The only caveat is that it's a smoking patio, so if that isn't your thing, you'll just have to enjoy the inside and front. The staff gets their shit done and will definitely be nice to you as long as you're nice to them! But also, it's a dive bar: don't expect the fine dining experience and just have a good time!
There are lots of yummy food options nearby that you can bring in. Sometimes, they even have a food vendor in the front, but I don't know much about the frequency.

(Also, they play hella movies that range from funny to horrorifying! 🧡)“

4.2 Good29 Reviews
Roses' Taproom Brewery • $
4930 Telegraph Ave, Oakland

Customers` Favorites

Flight of Beers
Cake Walk

“The gals serving you up are kind… but I really like Ashley… very welcoming…. Back patio is a nice ‘escape’ zone and they serve their beer there as well! Nice beer!!“

4 Good33 Reviews
Viridian Cocktail Bar • $$$
2216 Broadway, Oakland

Customers` Favorites

White Rabbit
Tomato Beef

“been here a few times but recently came for happy hour! so good!

got the tomato beef cocktail (their signature & most popular), their crispy chicken wings (DELISHHH) and their spicy cucumbers all for about $40! which in oakland is a wonderful price especially since i had leftovers which i ate the next day.

i came solo with a book on a saturday around 5pm and it was such a lovely date to take myself on. nobody bothered me. music was vibey. lighting was sensual. 10/10 would recommend :)“

4.7 Superb59 Reviews
Smitty's Lounge Dive Bar • $
3339 Grand Avenue, Oakland

“I'm only giving this bar four stars because it doesn't have the same grit and dive bar feel after the remodel and reopening. And that may not be fair, because it's a great bar. And it's great that it's open again. I love the place“

4.1 Good10 Reviews
The Wolf American • $$$
3853 Piedmont Ave, Oakland

Customers` Favorites

Roasted Heirloom Eggplant & Saffron Risotto
Casarecce Pasta with Short Rib Sugo
Raw Kumamoto Oysters 1 2 Shell
Star Route Little Gem Salad
Little Gem Lettuce Salad
Fried Brussels Sprouts
Chicken Liver Mousse
Grilled Ribeye Steak
Beau Soleil Oysters
Black Forest Cake

“Loved my birthday dinner tonight! Portions small for the prices in our opinion. A scallops main dish with 3 scallops is small. Drinks were amazing, decor fabulous and great service. My son had to go eat more food afterwards as he was still hungry. Bigger portions would be good. Loved everything else! Great choices, appetizers, main dishes and creative drinks were delicious. Kind of surprised knowing they knew it was my birthday that they didn't offer me a birthday "something" to make it special. For these prices I would expect something.“

4.5 Superb51 Reviews
Popoca Oakland Salvadoran • $$$
906 Washington St, Oakland

Customers` Favorites

Frijol Y Queso Pupusa Refried Black Beans Jalapeño Perejil Queso GF V
Pollo En Chicha Chicken Cooked in Fermented Pineapple Radish Dates
Salvadoran Quesadilla Sweet Cheese Bread and Dipping Chocolate
Salvi Side Plate Rice Beans Crema Escabeche
Smoke and Japanese Whiskey Cocktail
Stone Fruit and Beets En Alguashte
Passion Fruit Tres Leches Cake
Pupusa De Calabaza
Blue Corn Pupusas
Ceviche De Atun

“I am Salvadoran. I had the hongos pupusa, the chicken pupusa, the yuca con chicharrones. Every bite was an adventure. The Salvadoran dishes are made so creatively. Flavors stayed on your tongue as the sauce of la yuca. The drinks exceptional good. I had the mango verde cocktail….so rico. It was like eating Salvadoran food on fine china.“

4.3 Superb120 Reviews
Hello Stranger Bar • $$
1724 Broadway, Oakland

Customers` Favorites

Hello Stranger
Hell's Belles
Cheech Combo
Oaksterdam
Tiger Eye
Boom Box
Impala

“They have some cool parties all week long. The fun never a ends. My favorite day of the week to go is Mondays.“

3.6 Good61 Reviews
Thee Stork Club Bars • $
2330 Telegraph Ave, Oakland

“cheap and fun. please go.“

4.3 Superb52 Reviews
The Monk's Kettle Gastropubs • $$
5484 College Ave, Oakland

Customers` Favorites

Ahi Nicoise

“Yes I do recommend The Monk’s Kettle. Friendly people and great food😋“

4.1 Good76 Reviews
28

Mua

Mua American • $$
2442a Webster St, Oakland

Customers` Favorites

Fried Chicken with Corn Bread and Cole Slaw
Shiitake Mushroom Crostini
Dungeness Crab Cakes
Chicken Milanese
Beef Bone Marrow
Brussels Sprouts
Blackened Catfish
Pork Spare Ribs
Grilled Romaine
Crispy Polenta

“food was great atmosphere was nice recommend going there“

4.1 Good70 Reviews
Sobo Ramen Ramen • $$
988 Franklin St, Oakland

Customers` Favorites

My Favorite Spicy Black Tonkotsu Ramen
Basic Tonkotsu Ramen Choose One
Tonkotsu Ramen with Tonkatsu
Curry Chicken Katsu Ramen
Spicy Black Garlic Ramen
Spicy Miso Ramen
Agedashi Tofu
Chicken Gyoza
Edamame
Karrage

“I’ve ordered Tonkutsu Ramen (mild), its good but too spicy for me. I asked for hot water to reduce d saltiness n spiciness. Flavor still great!“

3.9 Good63 Reviews
Cato's Ale House American • $
3891 Piedmont Ave, Oakland

Customers` Favorites

Pesto Mushroom Sausage Pizza
Double-Slice Margherita
Hallelujah Sandwich
Impossible Burger
Chicken Sandwich
House-Made Chips
House Made Chips
Falafel Burger
Steak Sandwich
Cuban Sandwich

“Love eating on the Sun porch and the refills on the ice tea!“

4.5 Superb112 Reviews
The Cat House Bar • $
3255 Lakeshore Ave, Oakland

Customers` Favorites

Shot of Four Roses
Pilsner

“Welcoming, laid back bar, weekend piano bar action, stellar cocktailian offerings. What's not to like.“

4.7 Superb43 Reviews
Kona Club Bar • $
4401 Piedmont Ave, Oakland

Customers` Favorites

Beachcomber Zombie
Dealers Choice
Macadamia Nut
House Tiki Mug
The Scorpion
The Undertow
Beer Samples
Kona Cabana
The Vixen

“Solid drinks at solid prices, however the drinks did not seem as strong as other tiki bar drinks.

The interior decor was very tiki themed with old school movies playing on the TVs, there's a pool room in the back with a decent table. No food served but people were bringing outside food in

They're known for the Chi Chi which to me just tastes like a milkshake, too sweet for my palate but people like them.“

4.5 Superb91 Reviews
MeloMelo Kava Bar Cafe • $
3264 Grand Ave, Oakland

Customers` Favorites

64 Oz Growler of Melo Chocolate
Traditional Kava Nak
Kombucha Flight
Melo Dream
High Tide
Low Tide

“The Spiced Apple Kombucha was fun!

I walked in on a Friday about noon and there were only 4 other guys in there. The worker behind the bar was talking to someone sitting at the bar. Another guy sitting at the bar seemed to working.

There was plenty of open seating. The space was clean and a whole vibe. The fourth guy was on the couch on his laptop.

I wanted to see if they sold snacks and I didn't see any but the kombucha on the menu caught my eye. The guy behind the computer ran through a simple explanation of what they had on tap and I settled for the spiced apple because it had CBD. I was not disappointed. I look forward to stopping by and checking some other things out.

I'd easily recommend this to others to check out 👍🏽“

4.5 Superb57 Reviews
Room 389 Bar • $
389 Grand Ave, Oakland

“Far and away my favorite bar in the Town. The space flexes for all occasions. I’ve found myself here to work, dance, day drink, wedding after party and everything in between. The drinks are for real delicious and everyone is friendly and welcoming. 6 stars.“

4.5 Superb57 Reviews
35

DREXL

DREXL Bar • $
382 19th St, Oakland

Customers` Favorites

Dealer's Choice

“The best bar in Oakland. Hands down! They will make you anything you can imagine. They have the best mixologists in town. There is no other cocktail bar where you can order literally any drink and they can make it for you. I ordered an “amaro cocktail” and they gave me something that tasted like limoncello but is WAY better than limoncello. 10/10 we come here every week.“

4.6 Superb39 Reviews
36

Bar 355

Bar 355 Bar • $
355 19th St, Oakland

Customers` Favorites

Negra Modelo

“Really nice speak easy giving 60s to 80s vibes mirrors everywhere. It’s one way in one way out leather seating wooden tables. I recommend it for business professionals looking to go out or a group of friends that don’t want to be bothered. Either way I will be back they do not serve food therefore they got a low food rating. But there isn’t a array of alcohol. Can’t give you a good sense of service considering there’s only five people here but that may be a good thing.“

4.7 Superb20 Reviews
Heinold's First and Last Chance Saloon Bar • $
Jack London Square, 48 Webster St, Oakland

Customers` Favorites

Blindwood Dry Hopped Ciderblindwood Dry Hopped Cider ABV 5 8
A Fine Selection of Spirits Including Our Favorites
Line 51 Brewing Red Death Imperial Red ABV 7 5
Faction Brewing Seasonal West Coast IPA ABV 6 6
Faction Brewing 1970's Lager ABV 3 9
Bear Republic Racer 5 IPA ABV 7 5
Bitburger Drive Non-Alcoholic
Almanac Flow West Coast Pale
Federation Blonde

“A saloon with history from 1883! Worth having a beer or cocktail when in Jack London square.“

4.3 Superb109 Reviews
Penelope Bar • $
555 12th St Ste. 120, Oakland

Customers` Favorites

Manhattan Project
Oaxacan Sunrise

“Always enjoy talking with Johnny & Myra! Their drinks are good too!“

4.6 Superb21 Reviews
Ben 'N Nick's Bar & Grill Bar • $$
5612 College Ave, Oakland

Customers` Favorites

Ribeye Philly Cheesesteak
Truffle Deviled Eggs
Fish & Chips
Chicken Wings
Onion Rings
Half Wings
French Dip
Fries

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4.4 Superb40 Reviews
The Good Hop Bar & Bottle Shop Bar • $
2421 Telegraph Ave #102, Oakland

“Simply the best. Better than all the rest! (The song that plays in my head when I walk into the Good Hop)The draft list is always fire. And if you can't find a beer in the back you like.... well. That's not possible.Go and drink it!“

4.5 Superb25 Reviews
41

Mixé

Mixé Mexican • $$
2337 Broadway, Oakland

Customers` Favorites

Tlayudas Vegan Mexican Pizza
Tlayudas Oaxaqueno Or Vegan
Queso Flameado Con Chorizo
Enchiladas House Mole
Molcajete Caliente
Super Nachos
Chips Guac
Tres Tacos
Esquite
Fajitas

“Loved Mixe! Never had trouble getting a table, food comes out fast and is super tasty. Good for groups too. Love the bar space, perfect for when I'm downtown and just need a Mezcalito and a beer. Mezcal selection is getting to be the best in town, bar manager is super knowledgable and happy to talk Mezcals to get me what I'm feeling. Friendly service, always a great time!“

4.3 Superb48 Reviews
Everything But Hugs & Kisses Bar • $
1707 Telegraph Ave, Oakland

Customers` Favorites

Kumamoto Oysters
Lao Sausage
Green Curry

“Bomb Digs!! Great staff and owner. Food was so good. Not one bad dish.“

4.9 Superb7 Reviews
7th West Bar • $$
1255 7th St, Oakland

Customers` Favorites

Fried Chicken Vegetable Lumpia Brussels Sprouts Fries
Chicken Adobo Special Fries with Cheese

“A very eclectic and open air patio area. Great vibe!“

4.3 Superb30 Reviews
AU Lounge Bar • $$
2430 Broadway, Oakland

Customers` Favorites

Creole Crispy Prawns over Garlic Noodles
Creole Steak and Lobster
Chicken Wings
Mac & Cheese
Catfish

“Great fun night x totally recommend“

4.3 Superb30 Reviews
Grand Oaks Bar & Grill • $$
3701 Grand Ave, Oakland

Customers` Favorites

Pepperoni Pizza

“Warrior's Lamd🏀🏀🏀🏀 Nice AndFun People“

4.4 Superb15 Reviews
2101 Club Bar • $$
2101 MacArthur Blvd, Oakland

“The bartender Carlie is a true sweetheart. The service is stellar. They give you HUGE Shots here. I've never seen anything like it. She gave me 4 shots and it's like 2+ shots in each drink. Money will spent and they're not expensive. Based on quality of service I would've given them a 5 star review but it's just a dive bar. I'll be back #FACTS“

4.5 Superb11 Reviews
The Hatch Oakland Gastropubs • $
402 15th St, Oakland

Customers` Favorites

Chicken Wings
Alpastor
Fries

“Actually Hatch Oakland is superb, good, clean and healthy atmosphere as well as good drinks 🍻 and decor“

4.2 Good30 Reviews
George Kaye's Bar • $
4044 Broadway, Oakland

“Geo Kaye’s in Oakland is the quintessential dive bar experience done right. This place has that perfect blend of no-frills charm and a laid-back vibe that keeps you coming back. But what truly sets it apart is Winston behind the bar. He’s a master at his craft—quick with the drinks and even quicker with the wit. Whether you’re a regular or a first-timer, Winston makes you feel right at home with his warm, welcoming energy. If you’re looking for a spot with character, strong drinks, and a bartender who knows how to make your night, Geo Kaye’s is the place to be.“

5 Superb3 Reviews
Ruby Room Bar • $
132 14th St, Oakland

“Wow Ruby Room is back, as soon as I’m leaving after living here 15 years on and off… new ownership, waltzed in on a Tuesday at 10pm and the atmosphere was great. Great speaker system, still the same classic decor, nice vibe and people…. I will miss this place. The fact that this place isn’t packed 247 leaves me curious why.

Also, the sound and acoustics are fantastic, not sure if they updated after new ownership or if I’ve just not been here in a while“

4.2 Good21 Reviews
Shakewell Bar Bar • $$
3407 Lakeshore Ave, Oakland

Customers` Favorites

White Gulf Prawn & Moroccan Spiced Chicken Paella
Grilled Beef Tenderlion
Chicken & Prawn Paella
Shakewell's Paella
Little Gems Salad
Chicken & Churros
Bacalao Croquetas
Fried Chicken
Papas Bravas
Falafel Bites

“We’re guaranteed an excellent experience every time we go. It used to be a special occasion place for us but now it’s a must go for any out of town visitors (or on those days where we just want everything to go right). The food alone is so good and perfect every time, but it’s really the experience that makes this. I’ve never seen a restaurant run so well. You’ll see owners and staff alike working together to make sure patrons are taken care of. We’ve only had the best experiences every time we’ve gone and truly treasure this place.“

4.1 Good157 Reviews

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