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Bars in Downtown Oakland

A bar that welcomes you in for a drink without the need for a scene or a cover charge.

Based on 665 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
CoCo Noir Wine Shop & Bar image 1
CoCo Noir Wine Shop & Bar image 2
CoCo Noir Wine Shop & Bar image 3
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Wine bar blends glamorous decor with a community vibe through live music and local art. It offers customizable flights spotlighting BIPOC and women winemakers. Service is personal and attentive, creating a classy experience in lush surroundings.

Offers a classy wine bar experience with lush surroundings and wonderful service. The space feels community-oriented with personal attention from the owner and staff.

People are saying

"I loved the wine and the friendly, knowledgeable staff."

"This bar is a community space with heart and history."

"I heard live music from an amazing band."

Good to know

1

Live jazz performances occur every Friday and Saturday night starting at 9pm.

2

Drag night featuring local queens happens on the first Thursday of each month.

3

Happy hour is available from 4-7pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.

02
Town Bar & Lounge image 1

Small space shines with gorgeous interior design and live plants. Vibrant, warm vibe fuels dancing with great DJs. Bar offers amazing drinks and a unique gay bar feel, embracing queer BIPOC culture with friendly, inclusive energy.

Offers an awesome gay bar vibe with amazing drinks and a unique touch of live plants and music videos.

People are saying

"The bar staff here is super nice and welcoming."

"I found the craft cocktails here to be excellent."

"The DJs here keep the entire crowd dancing for hours."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 5-7pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

The bar is LGBTQ+ friendly and welcomes everyone.

3

Expect a lively atmosphere with a diverse crowd on weekends.

03
Fluid510 image 1
Restaurant

Two floors with massive dance floor and live DJ create an energetic vibe. Bars serve craft cocktails and elevated bites in a bright, upscale space. Welcomes LGBTQ+ and ally crowds with a warm, inviting feel and adaptable event setup.

Large, well-lit space offers an upscale vibe with great daytime lighting. Bar serves craft cocktails and elevated bites like grilled octopus, creating a fun atmosphere that welcomes all.

People are saying

"The brunch drinks and bites, like pork belly, were on point."

"This bar has amazing drag shows and comedy nights."

"The staff here is so inviting and friendly, making events a success."

Good to know

1

Happy hour lasts until close on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays, and until 9 pm on Fridays and Saturdays.

2

Fluid510 hosts a range of events including drag shows and comedy nights.

3

A two-item minimum is required for comedy shows upstairs.

04
Bar 355 image 1
Cocktail bar

Cocktail bar shines with strong cocktails and quick service in a cozy 1930s setting. Vintage amber lighting and a disco ball add retro charm. Music steers clear of mainstream pop, creating a unique soundtrack for a relaxed night.

Strong cocktails and quick, friendly service create a welcoming vibe. The bar plays great music that avoids overplayed pop and offers a unique, charming atmosphere.

People are saying

"The bar staff here is so friendly and takes great care of you."

"They have live vinyl music and dancing during Happy Hour."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 5 pm to 7 pm on weekdays.

2

Live vinyl music and dancing are scheduled during the week and weekend.

3

Food options are limited to popcorn; plan accordingly if you're hungry.

05
Cafe Van Kleef image 1
Cocktail bar

Eclectic decor and tight standing room create a lively dive bar vibe. Music blends 2000s R&B and pop at moderate volume, perfect for conversation. Specialty cocktails shine with fresh squeezed grapefruit, especially the renowned Greyhound.

Unique dive bar atmosphere stands out with a squeezed-fresh pink grapefruit Greyhounds specialty. A single bartender manages the bar, adding to the authentic, local vibe.

People are saying

"This bar's decor is visually interesting and eclectic."

"I loved the fresh squeezed grapefruit in these cocktails."

Good to know

1

Expect longer wait times on Friday nights due to high traffic.

2

Reservations are not accepted, so arrive early to secure a spot.

3

The bar does not serve food, only drinks.

06
Penelope image 1

Chic cocktail bar feels like a speakeasy with apothecary decor and cozy indoor and outdoor seating. Friendly staff create a relaxed vibe perfect for good conversation. Prices match San Francisco standards, making it a hidden gem off the main drag.

Inside feels like a speakeasy with a chic vibe. Friendly bar staff make it easy to have a good conversation at the bar.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are really special and unique."

"The bartender Sam makes pouring drinks feel like a masterclass."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers half-price cocktails from 5-7pm on weekdays.

2

Reservations are not required but recommended for larger groups.

3

Expect a casual dress code; no formal attire needed.

07
Kinfolx image 1

Gorgeous space with afro centric artwork and comfy seating creates a warm, welcoming vibe. Frequent live DJs add laid-back energy while many work on laptops. After 5 pm, enjoy a smooth wine bar with delicious drinks perfect for evening relaxation.

Wine bar after 5 pm offers a smooth transition from coffee service. Drinks are consistently delicious with a peaceful vibe that suits evening relaxation.

People are saying

"It's a thoughtful, calm space that feels right for working."

"I loved the breakfast and the cozy, inviting atmosphere here."

"The wine bar drinks were delicious and they had amazing nonalcoholic wines."

Good to know

1

Kinfolx does not accept cash; only credit cards and mobile payments are allowed.

2

Wi-Fi at Kinfolx is restrictive and blocks many popular websites.

3

Arrive early to secure a seat, especially during busy hours.

08
Sante Adairius Rustic Ales Oakland Arbor image 1

Historic building with original brick and polished wood creates a cozy, rustic vibe. Outdoor beer gardens and a spacious patio offer a relaxed spot for groups. Bar features wheelchair accessibility and a friendly golden retriever, making it welcoming for all.

A great pub with fine brews and a side bar with extra taps. The bar is wheelchair accessible and features a friendly golden retriever behind the counter.

People are saying

"The craft beer selection here is incredible and amazing."

"This brewery's IPAs are vibrant with amazing hop aromas and flavors."

"I found the beer selection here to be amazing."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens every Tuesday at 8pm with a $5 entry fee.

2

Street parking around the area is targeted by thieves; consider the $5 parking lot nearby.

3

The establishment is BYOF (Bring Your Own Food) and allows outside food.

09
Ruby Room image 1

Dive bar boasts an old school feel and a pool table for fun. Music keeps energy lively and atmosphere relaxed. Known as one of the most authentic dive-y spots around.

Offers a classic dive bar vibe with an old school feel. Known for its authentic dive-y atmosphere that stands out in the area.

People are saying

"It's the dive-y-ist dive bar with an old school feel."

"It's a great dive bar with an old school feel."

Good to know

1

DJ Alleyoops plays at Ruby Room on select nights.

2

Be cautious of your surroundings as safety concerns have been noted.

10
Mad Oak Bar ‘N’ Yard image 1

Large indoor and outdoor spaces feature a second-story patio with a retractable awning. Craft beer lovers enjoy a wide tap selection and friendly staff offering tasters. Live bands and DJs create a casual, hipster vibe with games and TVs adding to the lively atmosphere.

Craft beer lovers find a large number of taps with great beer and cider selections. The bar offers a friendly atmosphere with knowledgeable staff who provide tasters. It suits large groups well and serves solid bar food like a fried chicken sandwich and caesar salad.

People are saying

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

"I loved the great beer selection on tap."

"The bartenders here are cool as hell and super friendly."

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.

11
Bar Shiru image 1

Vinyl records spin on high-end tube amps, filling the space with rich sound. Enjoy expertly crafted cocktails featuring a great selection of Japanese whisky. The vibe blends mid-century modern and industrial styles with a Japanese-inspired jazz bar feel, perfect for chill conversations.

Strong, high-quality cocktails stand out with a great selection of Japanese whisky. The bar offers a warm, calm atmosphere with incredible vinyl music that sets a perfect tone for conversation and relaxation.

People are saying

"I thought the craft cocktails here were the best in the East Bay."

"The jazz sounds amazing through this high-end analog stereo system."

"The craft cocktails here are amazing and worth the price."

Good to know

1

Bar Shiru does not serve food, so plan accordingly.

2

Reservations are only accepted for groups of 7 to 15; smaller parties are first come, first served.

3

Expect a wait time of about 30 minutes during peak hours.

12
The Athletic Club Oakland image 1

Wall-to-wall TVs create a 360-degree viewing experience with no bad seats. Frosty cold beers flow fast even in a full house. Lively crowds enjoy pool tables and arcade games alongside sports, making it a well-organized sports bar with an energetic vibe.

Full house crowds do not stop quick service at the bar. Every seat offers a clear view of multiple TVs. The setup suits sports fans looking for a lively, well-organized sports bar environment.

People are saying

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

"The food here is so good and tasty."

"This bar has wall-to-wall TVs for watching any game."

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.

13
Oeste - Bar image 1

Rooftop bar shines with beautiful patio and outdoor heaters. Music blends chill R&B and live bands, boosting a lively yet easy vibe. Drinks are solid, menu simple, and parking is convenient across the street.

A rooftop bar with a mellow vibe and a nice DJ sets the mood here. Drinks are solid, the menu stays simple, and parking sits right across the street.

People are saying

"The Red Beans And Rice here makes you want to dance."

"The brunch vibe here is amazing with chill R&B and hip-hop island beats."

"The bar was so packed, it felt like a party downstairs."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for rooftop dining to ensure a spot.

2

There is a $5 processing fee for card payments at the bar.

3

Entry fee is $15 per person to support local talent during events.

14
Bocanova image 1
Latin American restaurant

Spacious dining with an open kitchen and walls of windows shows local art and a courtyard garden. Full espresso and cocktail bars serve top-notch mezcal and passion fruit margaritas. Soft Peruvian music and dim lighting create a cozy vibe with attentive service at the bar.

A wall of windows brightens the bar, which offers a full espresso and cocktail selection. Peruvian music plays softly, and bartenders deliver great drinks with attentive service.

People are saying

"The food here is thoughtful, beautifully prepared, and genuinely delicious."

"The seafood here, like the moqueca, is rich, creamy, and packed with tender fish."

"Alex at the bar makes amazing drinks and great conversation."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 3 to 6 pm with $2 oysters.

2

Valet parking is available at the Marriott across the street.

3

Bocanova has outdoor seating that is dog-friendly and equipped with heaters.

15
Dinner House image 1
American restaurant

Classic bar with a speakeasy feel offers a cozy, friendly vibe. German beers on draft and great lagers pair well with high-quality food like meatloaf. TVs show hockey games or old westerns, while a pit bull at the bar adds charm.

Classic bar setup with a speakeasy feel creates a cozy atmosphere. A pit bull often sits right at the bar by the door, adding a unique touch.

People are saying

"The German beers on tap here were spot on."

"The vibe here is super chill with top-notch mixed drinks."

"The drinks here are delicious and perfectly balanced."

Good to know

1

They use high-quality ingredients like grass-fed beef.

2

Dinner House makes the ranch fresh in-house every morning.

3

Dinner House doesn't have long hours.

16
DREXL image 1

Bar has a chill vibe with an upbeat late night energy and a back patio. Expert bartenders craft creative cocktails priced around $13. Staff offer top-tier service in a community-focused setting, perfect for laid back socializing.

Cocktail orders get made exactly as requested with expert bartenders. Staff provide top-tier service in a community-focused setting.

People are saying

"You can imagine any cocktail and they'll make it for you."

"I found it to be the best bar in Oakland."

"The vibe here is so chill and friendly."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs at DREXL, offering discounted drinks.

2

Cocktails cost $13 each at DREXL.

3

DREXL does not serve food, so plan accordingly.

17
The Hatch Oakland image 1

Small hole-in-the-wall dive bar offers a laid-back atmosphere with a hot vibe. Accessible outdoor patio adds to the chill feel while anime and movies play on a projector. Vegan wings and tacos stand out among food options.

Small hole-in-the-wall dive bar with a hot vibe. Surrounded by plenty of eateries and drink options.

People are saying

"I thought their vegan wings tasted so good, I ordered every flavor."

"This bar has a cool, chill vibe with movies playing."

"I loved the delicious, affordable food, especially the spicy pizza."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but expect busy nights on weekends.

2

The bar offers a variety of vegan and non-vegan food options.

3

Prices for food are generally reasonable, with vegan pizza slices around $9.

18
Sobre Mesa image 1
Restaurant

Chic interior and perfect lighting create an intimate vibe. Bar offers excellent cocktails like mezcal drinks. Small groups enjoy regulated traffic and tasty beef empanadas in a sophisticated setting.

Gorgeous bar with a great vibe and excellent cocktails. Traffic is regulated to keep the space comfortable for small groups.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, with vibrant, tangy flavors."

"The dim lighting makes it a perfect spot for a romantic date night."

"The food at this bar is delicious and truly impressive."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with discounted food and drinks.

2

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

3

The Queer and Couture Oakland Pride event is a highlight, showcasing local culture.

19
Night Heron image 1

Lush night club vibe meets cozy lighting and comfortable seating for a chill night. DJs spin good tracks while small games add a quirky touch. Near a major theater, it’s perfect for pre-show drinks or casual hangs with food delivery from a Japanese spot.

Cozy lighting and lots of seating create a relaxed vibe. Small games scattered around add a weird and dumb charm. Food from a nearby Japanese restaurant can be delivered right to the bar.

People are saying

"I found the cocktails to be inventive and delicious."

"I loved the custom cocktail menu for the party."

"The cocktails here are inventive and very drinkable."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great drink options from 4-6pm on weekdays.

2

Street parking is available, along with nearby parking garages.

3

You can order food from a Japanese restaurant next door.

20
The Punchdown - Wine Bar + Bottle Shop image 1

Comfy wine bar offers a natural wine selection with rare orange wines. Chill vibe echoes small Lisbon eateries and welcomes dogs. Minimal hospitality means slow service, but you can pick and open your own wine at the bar.

A comfy wine bar with a local vibe lets you pick your own wine and open it at the bar. Hospitality is minimal, mostly limited to opening bottles, and service can be slow even when the bar is empty.

People are saying

"I found the wine selection to be unique and interesting."

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

"This bar serves unique, interesting, and delicious wines."

Good to know

1

The place is dog friendly, making it a great spot for pet owners.

2

Happy hour offers good deals on drinks and snacks after work.

3

The bar stays open late on weekends for a fun night out.

21
Fox Theater image 1
Live music venue

Historic theater boasts intimate setting and clear sound that highlights vocals. Multiple bars offer easy access to drinks, with the Fox Theater bar providing a unique vibe. VIP room and handicapped accommodations add to the classy, nostalgic atmosphere.

Bars form a separate space with their own vibe. Multiple bars are scattered around, making drinks easy to access. The bar at the Fox Theater stands out with its distinct atmosphere.

People are saying

"This venue is gorgeous and perfect for seeing a show."

"The interior design and art deco look are really cool."

"There were bars all over the place inside."

Good to know

1

Tickets must be shown at the door, and metal detection screening is required.

2

Parking is available in nearby garages, but be cautious of break-ins.

3

Valet parking is conveniently located right in front of the theater.

22
Hello Stranger image 1

Narrow bar with fancier decor and a cozy upstairs area offers a chill vibe. Friendly staff and strict door policies keep the crowd lively but controlled. Music is on point, and bottle service upstairs adds a special touch.

Bar staff are super friendly and the decor looks fancier than typical bars. It can be extremely crowded but also mostly empty at times, with strict door policies and a loud playlist.

People are saying

"This dance spot gets really lively and the crowd is great."

"I enjoyed the DJ; the music was on point."

"The bar has great music and good vibes."

Good to know

1

Expect a $10 cover charge, even when the bar is empty.

2

Drinks are on the expensive side, so budget accordingly.

3

No food is available at the bar, so plan to eat elsewhere.

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Downtown Oakland, Oakland

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