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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in Oakland

Cool spots with beer

A cold beer in a space with a distinct, laid-back energy is exactly what the evening requires.

Based on 715 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Original Pattern Brewing image 1
Original Pattern Brewing image 2
Original Pattern Brewing image 3
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Industrial-style brewery with cozy indoor and outdoor seating including a loft and patio. Atmosphere stays relaxing and family-friendly with live jazz music enhancing the vibe. Groups gather around long tables while enjoying freshly made pizza and a variety of well-crafted beers.

Fantastic beer and cool staff create a cool vibe throughout the brewery. The atmosphere feels relaxed and the location adds to the overall coolness.

Fresh beer is always brewing with a wide selection of IPAs, lagers, stouts, and sour beers on tap. The pear beer and Hazy and clear IPA flights stand out, and four-packs are available to go.

People are saying

"I thought the beer selection here was super cool."

"I thought the pizza here was amazing and freshly made."

"The beers here are amazing, especially the IPAs."

Good to know

1

Local events happen every Friday and weekend, offering a lively atmosphere.

2

On certain nights, woodfired pizza is served on site.

3

Street parking is available, but be cautious of break-ins.

02
Ghost Town Brewing - Laurel Biergarten & Kitchen image 1

Outdoor patio with sunny, covered seating and heating lamps creates a laid-back yet lively atmosphere. Space welcomes dogs and kids, making it family-friendly and casual. Unique artwork and eclectic music add character to the venue.

The space features a cool outdoor patio and bathrooms with a circus theme. The overall vibe feels relaxed and laid-back.

Offers a great beer selection with a focus on rare and unusual styles. House beer costs $3 a glass, and the Maliciously Viscous Stout stands out as a notable chocolate stout.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the great beer selection they offered."

"The outdoor seating is great for pups and kids."

"The space here is really cool, with unique artwork."

Good to know

1

New brews are introduced every Friday, perfect for beer enthusiasts.

2

Trivia night happens every Tuesday at 8pm, offering a fun experience.

3

Street parking is the only option available, so plan accordingly.

03
The Double Standard image 1

Back patio with giant redwood trees and open-air yard creates a spacious, chill vibe. Music plays loudly inside while outdoor speakers let the DJ's jams fill the air. The bar feels lively but not overwhelming, with a fun, cool atmosphere and detailed seasonal decorations adding character.

Quality drinks come from cool servers who add to the super cool vibe inside and out.

Offers a variety of good beer with a notable Frosty IPA. Serves plenty of options for those who enjoy drinking beer.

People are saying

"The outdoor seating is amazing with the giant redwoods and Christmas decorations."

"I found the vibe here to be super cool."

"I enjoyed the good beer here."

Good to know

1

The bar is open late, making it a good spot for night outings.

2

Expect a lively atmosphere on Fridays and Saturdays.

3

The patio is spacious and ideal for groups of up to 10 people.

04
Prescott Market West Oakland image 1

Food court combines enclosed indoor space with a large outdoor area featuring a sandbox and kids' play zone, making it family-friendly and dog-friendly. Atmosphere varies from relaxing and spacious to lively with loud live music. Secure parking and free WiFi add convenience for visitors.

Several food choices create a beautiful collection of restaurants in a peaceful, welcoming vibe. The patio suits little ones and dogs, with live music adding to the cool atmosphere.

Almanac offers good beers in the afternoons and Violet's has a full bar. Prescott Market West Oakland serves great beer alongside food and music, making it a solid spot for a casual drink.

People are saying

"The food options here are great, especially the pizza."

"It's a cool spot with lots of food choices."

"I enjoyed the great food and beer here."

Good to know

1

Trivia nights occur every Thursday at 7pm with no entry fee.

2

Live music is featured on weekends, enhancing the atmosphere.

3

The Prescott Night Market runs every Friday evening, offering local vendors.

05
The Monk's Kettle image 1

Gastropub offers a dark and moody atmosphere with a cozy vibe that invites lingering without rush. A heated back patio provides a warm, intimate outdoor space hidden behind a narrow hallway. The place features a curated beer selection alongside a large, clean bar and a classic dining room setting.

A relaxed vibe sets the tone here, making the bar feel very cool and welcoming. The atmosphere stays fun and easygoing throughout.

A dynamic selection of foreign and domestic beers appears on draft and in bottles, served in complementary glassware. Staff offer fantastic recommendations to explore unique and amazing brews.

People are saying

"You'll find a great beer selection with a solid variety."

"I found the burgers here to be amazing and on point."

"The food here is really good and hit the spot."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is open until midnight for late-night dining.

2

Parking is available on College Ave., just 50 feet from the entrance.

3

The restaurant offers a kids menu with crayons for young diners.

06
Heinold's First and Last Chance Saloon image 1

Saloon with historic 1880s design features a slanted bar and uneven floor that survived a major earthquake. Atmosphere feels like stepping back in time, with antique furnishings and a large outdoor patio offering a quiet, relaxing space. Patrons enjoy a mix of lively indoor energy and calm outdoor seating.

A historic bar with a lot of stories creates a weird and cool vibe. It stays interesting even with the tourist crowd and feels like a great spot to have a beer.

Local draft beers and a good wine list feature prominently. The patio offers a relaxed spot to enjoy a cold beer amid a historical atmosphere.

People are saying

"This historic bar feels like a time capsule from over a century ago."

"You can have a beer and touch the past here."

"This place is a cool piece of history, like a time capsule."

Good to know

1

Bring your ID to enter the saloon, as they card everyone.

2

The saloon is one of the oldest establishments in the area, opening in 1883.

3

The sloped floor is a remnant of the 1906 San Francisco earthquake.

07
The New Parkway Theater image 1

Movie theater features comfy couches and quirky decor with tables and coffee tables in screening rooms. Atmosphere feels warm and bohemian, blending a diverse coffee house vibe with a home movie shack feel. Frequent activities in the lobby and mezzanine add to the lively, welcoming environment.

Community events like Cereal Cinema create a cool vibe. The lobby always hosts something cool, and the seating adds to the relaxed atmosphere.

A good selection of beers complements the food and drink options. The beer list is perfectly curated and pairs well with the menu.

People are saying

"It's a comfy and welcoming movie palace."

"This local spot hosts so many cool community events."

"They offered a great beer selection."

Good to know

1

The theater hosts community events like trivia and bingo throughout the week.

2

Karaoke night is every Friday at 10pm with a two-drink minimum.

3

Food options include unique snacks beyond standard theater fare.

08
Sideshow Kitchen image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Hamburger restaurant offers spacious outdoor patio with covered seating and multiple TVs playing sports. Atmosphere stays warm and friendly with a mix of Bay Area hip-hop music and relaxed vibes. Patio welcomes dogs and encourages lingering with picnic tables and heaters.

Casual, family-friendly vibe blends with a chill, young crowd. A cool patio and TVs add to the relaxed atmosphere, while the staff keeps the energy inviting.

Fresh beer flows with a great rotating selection and a dim but good beer menu. A cool patio offers a spot to enjoy your drink alongside burgers and fries.

People are saying

"These juicy burgers are delicious and perfectly cooked."

"The beer here is always fresh and the list is good."

"The food here is cool, flavorful, and seasoned."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited, so arrive early to secure a spot.

2

The menu is small but features unique items specific to the Bay Area.

3

Sideshow Kitchen is pet-friendly, allowing well-behaved dogs.

09
Mad Oak Bar ‘N’ Yard image 1

Large indoor and outdoor spaces include a second-story patio with retractable awning and spacious seating. Music ranges from live bands to DJs, creating a casual, hipster vibe with a younger crowd. TVs and games like shooting hoops add to the lively atmosphere during sports events.

Very cool vibe with a casual feel and good music. Outdoor seating and an upper bar area add to the relaxed atmosphere.

A large number of taps offer an extensive and impressive selection of craft beers and ciders. The menu covers a great range of styles and choices, making it a solid spot for casual beer tasting.

People are saying

"The outdoor seating here has a great mix of indoor and outdoor space."

"I loved the great beer selection on tap."

"I found the bar to be a cool spot with good vibes."

Good to know

1

Electronic payment is required; cash is not accepted.

2

Trivia night happens every Tuesday at 8pm.

3

Happy hour offers great prices on drinks and appetizers.

10
MENSHO image 1
Ramen restaurant

Ramen restaurant with modern decor and shared tables creates a loud, packed atmosphere that feels cramped but lively. Music adds a loungey, housey vibe while seating includes a section for solo diners. Air conditioning runs strong, sometimes uncomfortably so.

A super cool vibe fills the space, making it feel fresh and inviting. The atmosphere blends modern style with a welcoming energy that suits all kinds of visitors.

A wide variety of beers includes Kyoto Matcha IPA, a green beer with real matcha flavor, and Fieldwork beer, noted as a standout. The list features Asahi on tap and sour beers with appealing presentation.

People are saying

"I found the ramen here to be amazing and flavorful."

"The vibe here is super cool."

"I loved trying the unique Kyoto Matcha IPA beer."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted, so expect to wait during peak hours.

2

During peak hours, there might be a 20-30 minute wait, so it's better to go right when they open.

3

The restaurant offers vegan and vegetarian options for most of its menu.

11
The Athletic Club Oakland image 1

Wall-to-wall TVs cover two floors, creating a 360-degree viewing experience with no bad seats. The atmosphere is lively and social, with people chatting, cheering, and enjoying pool tables and arcade games alongside sports. Beers come frosty cold, and the vibe stays energetic during major games and events.

The atmosphere feels laid-back and the staff are friendly and approachable. The overall vibe comes across as cool and welcoming.

Beers come frosty cold with a nice pour and stay fresh on tap. The beer bucket offers a good value without being too expensive.

People are saying

"It's a great place to watch any game with TVs everywhere."

"The food here is so good and tasty."

"The beer here is frosty cold."

Good to know

1

Come early for big events to secure a good spot.

2

There is a $10 cover charge for major events.

3

Street parking is free on weekends, but limited.

12
The Lumpia Company image 1
Filipino restaurant

Filipino restaurant offers indoor and outdoor seating with spacious patio and water views. Atmosphere is family-friendly with a vintage arcade corner featuring free play games. Music and TVs create a lively vibe, while Filipino-flavored beers add a unique touch.

A bar with six large TVs shows different sports, creating a lively vibe. The space feels open and cool, serving tasty Philippine food and drawing fans of GTC because of band members from Guam.

Unique beer options include Filipino-inspired beers and an ube ale with distinct flavors. Flights offer a variety of cool beer flavors to sample.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and packed with flavor."

"The Filipino-inspired beers here are fantastic."

"It's a cool spot with an arcade and tasty Filipino food."

Good to know

1

Live bands perform every few weeks; check the schedule for exact dates.

2

Comedy nights are hosted regularly; plan to attend for a fun evening.

3

Parking is limited, so arrive early or be prepared to walk.

13
McNally's Irish Pub image 1

Old-school Irish pub with a real log fire and Smithwicks on tap creates a cozy, lively atmosphere. Sports on TV attract Seahawks fans, while a pool table and jukebox add casual entertainment. Local crowd welcomes newcomers, blending traditional vibes with an American bar feel.

The bar has a cool vibe with a relaxed ambiance. It feels like a chill spot to hang out.

Several good IPAs from microbreweries appear on the beer list alongside Smithwicks and Guinness. Some beers come flat and cost around ten dollars each, which feels steep given the quality.

People are saying

"I enjoyed drinking cold beer with fellow fans."

"I thought the ambiance here was really cool."

"It's a cozy neighborhood Irish pub with great service."

Good to know

1

Expect to pay around ten dollars for a beer.

2

Credit card payments may incur additional fees.

3

Open mic comedy events are hosted regularly.

14
The Cat House image 1

Bar offers understated chic design with cozy couches and a secret garden smoke section. Atmosphere stays laid back and warm, blending classy and trashy vibes. Outdoor patio provides a quiet retreat amid eclectic seating options.

A laid back atmosphere sets the tone with a dark vibe throughout. Staff come across as cool and friendly.

Offers an excellent and diverse beer selection with a good list of local beers on tap. Drinks come at reasonable prices.

People are saying

"It's a friendly neighborhood spot with a cozy, laid-back vibe."

"The outdoor seating in the back is a little slice of paradise."

"I found the beer selection to be pretty cool and dark."

Good to know

1

They don’t provide food, but allow outside food to be brought in.

2

No one under 21 is allowed in; IDs are checked at the door.

3

The bar is open late for evening outings.

15
Dan Sung Sa Restaurant image 1
Korean restaurant

Eclectic interior with private booths creates a cozy yet lively atmosphere. Loud music and energetic vibe make it a fun spot for late-night hangouts. The space feels like stepping into a South Korean joint, distinct from its discreet exterior.

Late night hangs come alive with a cool space and a laid-back vibe that suits groups of friends well.

Massive Cass Fresh Cold Brew Beer XL bottles stand out, matching the size of a 2-liter soda. The IPA beer pours smooth, and many beers come in large and cheap servings.

People are saying

"I found the Korean fried chicken crispy and flavorful."

"The spicy seafood noodle soup is a really cool, generous portion."

"You can get giant bottles of beer here, they're massive."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is open late, serving food until 11:30 PM.

2

Expect a busy atmosphere on weekend nights with slow service.

3

Portions are small, especially for groups, so order accordingly.

16
June's Pizza image 1
Pizza restaurant

Small pizzeria inside an old industrial building features an open kitchen and industrial assembly line for pizza production. Atmosphere is warm and inviting with Motown music and exposed wood beams, creating a classic diner feel. Space fills with groups, keeping energy upbeat and sustainable.

Effortlessly cool vibe shines in an unassuming location. The atmosphere feels stylish yet tucked away.

Micro brewed beer stands out on the menu alongside good beer and wine options. Drinks include beer, limited soft drinks, and a free water station.

People are saying

"The Margherita pizza's sauce was elegant and complemented the fresh mozzarella."

"The atmosphere here is so cool and stylish."

"They offered good beer and wine."

Good to know

1

After 9 pm, only margherita pizza is served.

2

Expect a long wait during peak hours.

3

Parking is limited at the pizza place.

17
Persian Nights image 1
Persian restaurant

Warm Persian authentic ambience fills cozy indoor and outdoor spaces with beautiful holiday decorations and a cozy patio featuring outdoor heating. Quiet atmosphere encourages easy conversation, while a small bar with TV adds casual charm. The setting feels like a welcoming family gathering spot.

A little bar with a TV adds a unique touch. The atmosphere features cool decorations that stand out.

Rostam beer stands out as a cool choice here. Waitstaff sometimes leave empty beer glasses on the table when serving other drinks.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

"The food here is so flavorful and fresh."

"The Rostam beer was very cool."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends to avoid long wait times.

2

The restaurant no longer offers a buffet option, focusing on a la carte dishes.

3

Expect higher prices than average for Persian cuisine in the area.

18
Eli's Mile High Club image 1

Blues club with massive courtyard and intimate stage offers live metal and punk music alongside a chill Oakland vibe. Indoor and outdoor spaces provide room for dancing, socializing, and people watching. Crowd is eclectic and diverse, reflecting the area's artistic and historic roots.

A large, chill patio offers a great spot for conversations. The venue hosts punk shows and indie markets, with an amazing late-night food menu.

A varied beer selection is available, served at both the main bar and a second bar in the vast backyard area with tables. Beer options complement the outdoor seating well.

People are saying

"The outdoor seating is ideal for socializing and conversation."

"The back area is large and really cool."

"They offer beer, and there's a vast backyard area."

Good to know

1

Live blues music happens every Monday night, attracting a lively crowd.

2

The venue has a $25 cover charge for live music events.

3

Liquor is only available from the main bar; no outside drinks allowed.

19
Mama's Boy image 1
Pizza restaurant

Spacious pizza restaurant with upstairs mezzanine seating overlooking a lively street scene. Atmosphere blends New York pizzeria vibes with a casual, chill energy and often loud music. Frequented during busy events, it offers a fun, social setting with friendly staff and classic arcade games.

Pricing stays cool and the atmosphere feels laid-back. It works well as a hangout spot during busy events.

Craft beer specials appear alongside a menu with pizza and sandwiches. The tap includes Fieldwork west coast IPA, and beer can be enjoyed upstairs.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza here was the best slice in the Bay Area."

"The beer here is cheap and pretty damn good."

"I was surprised by how good the pizza here is."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Meatball Wednesday features a special meatball sub available only on that day.

3

Pizza by the slice is available, making it a quick option for lunch.

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