Best Bars in Oakland

Real videos of Bars in Oakland — 12 places, filmed by creators on the ground.

Ranked venues

Otto’s Uptown Kitchen
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$VibrantSeasonalModernCraft cocktailsSeasonal menuBrunch specials
About the venue
Otto’s Uptown Kitchen, located on Broadway in Oakland, California, serves a variety of American dishes with a twist, focused on seasonal ingredients. The vibrant atmosphere combines modern decor and a menu featuring brunch favorites like avocado toast and creative entrees for dinner. Opened in 2018, Otto's is known for its emphasis on locally sourced produce and house-made sauces. The restaurant also includes a full bar offering a range of craft cocktails, wines, and local beers.
What the videos show
A bartender is shown preparing two cocktails: a dark-colored drink poured into a glass with ice and a pink cocktail strained into a martini glass. The video ends with a shot of the finished cocktails and the bar shelves behind them.
2455 Broadway
@citizenoftheskyy
Merchant's Saloon
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$HistoricCozyLivelyExtensive whiskeyCraft cocktailsLive music
About the venue
Merchants' Saloon at 401 2nd St, Oakland, California, is a historic bar established in the late 1800s, known for its extensive whiskey collection and craft cocktails. The venue features antique decor and a cozy atmosphere, making it a staple among locals and visitors alike. They regularly host live music events, showcasing local talent on weekends. Their small plates menu pairs well with the drinks and is designed for sharing.
What the videos show
The video opens with a close-up of a neon sign for Modelo beer and Oakland Roots, then pans across a dimly lit bar with purple lighting, revealing patrons seated at tables and standing at the counter. The panning continues to show additional wall decorations, including a skull encased in chains, before ending near a TouchTunes jukebox machine.
401 2nd St
@ronjacksonmusic
Viridian
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$$$FreshInvitingPlant-focusedPlant-basedSeasonal dishesBright decor
About the venue
Viridian, located on Broadway, highlights a plant-based menu inspired by global cuisines since 2018. The restaurant boasts a bright, airy space filled with greenery, creating a refreshing dining environment. Guests can enjoy dishes like their signature jackfruit tacos and vibrant salads made with seasonal produce. The atmosphere attracts guests ranging from health-conscious locals to curious food lovers.
What the videos show
The video showcases various scenes within a bar setting, including a mural of Kehlani, patrons at the bar and outdoor patio, pinball machines, and drinks being prepared and served. It also captures a moment in a restroom with a selfie being taken.
2216 Broadway
@markanthonyfoodies
@Wanderingbelly
Night Heron
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$$$TrendyCozyCraftyArtisanal cocktailsOutdoor seatingThemed events
About the venue
Night Heron is a trendy bar located in Oakland, California, known for its craft cocktails and cozy ambiance. The venue showcases an extensive drink menu featuring artisanal cocktails, local beers, and wines, emphasizing seasonal ingredients. With a layout that includes both indoor and outdoor seating, the bar attracts a diverse crowd of young professionals and nightlife seekers. Regular events like themed nights and local music acts keep the atmosphere lively.
What the videos show
The video showcases a glass containing an amber liquid with ice cubes and a black sesame seed rim, followed by two glasses on a bar counter, one with red liquid and the other with clear liquid and foam, garnished with dried citrus peel. A close-up of coasters branded 'Night Heron Oakland' is shown, and the camera pans across a dimly lit bar area with patrons at tables and a neon sign.
1780 Telegraph Ave
@eatwichu
Vino Volo
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$$RelaxedAirport-friendlyCraft-focusedSeasonal specialsSpacious seatingCraft wines
About the venue
Vino Volo in Terminal 1 at Oakland Airport is known for its relaxed atmosphere and extensive wine selection. Opened in 2005, it offers travelers a chance to unwind before flights with craft wines and small plate pairings. It features a spacious seating area where guests can enjoy a glass of wine while watching the airport bustle. Regular patrons appreciate the rotating seasonal specials which showcase new wines and pairings.
What the videos show
The video showcases a wine bar setting, featuring shelves stocked with various wine bottles, including Moet & Chandon champagne. It transitions to a bartender preparing drinks behind a counter, followed by a close-up of a wine list and a hand holding a glass of red wine.
Terminal 1
@lifestylewithcharm
Drake's Dealership
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$$CasualLaid-backCommunity-focusedOutdoor patioHouse-brewed beersWood-fired pizza
About the venue
Drake's Dealership is a brewery and beer garden located in Oakland's Auto Row, housed in a converted car dealership since 2016. This large space features a 1,000 square foot patio and an expansive indoor area where guests can sample unique craft beers. Their food menu includes a variety of wood-fired pizzas and seasonal small plates, all made from locally sourced ingredients. With a rotating selection of house-brewed beers, this spot is particularly popular among craft beer enthusiasts and locals.
What the videos show
The video captures a bar setting, starting with a view of a brick wall displaying various beer options on blackboards. It then pans to show a stainless steel bar counter with multiple beer taps and a bartender cleaning glasses. The camera continues to pan, revealing more people sitting at tables enjoying drinks.
2325 Broadway
@Wanderingbelly
Mad Oak Bar
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$$RelaxedCozyLaid-backInventive cocktailsOutdoor patioLive music
About the venue
Mad Oak, a cozy bar in Uptown Oakland, has been around since 2011, featuring a blend of classic cocktails and an extensive beer selection. The venue offers both indoor seating and a spacious outdoor patio, perfect for enjoying drinks in the pleasant Oakland weather. Guests often rave about the inventive cocktails, such as the 'Mad Mule', which mixes ginger beer with house-infused spirits. Regulars appreciate the relaxed atmosphere, live music events, and rotating food trucks.
What the videos show
The video begins with a close-up of a plate filled with various food items, including potatoes, green peppers, red bell pepper slices, cilantro leaves, and sauces. It then transitions to a bartender pouring margaritas into two glasses at a bar counter. The glasses are clinked together, one containing ice cubes and both garnished with lime wedges.
135 12th St
@tamyum
Hello Stranger
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$$$TrendyLivelyCasualBrunch cocktailsModern dishesWeekend specials
About the venue
Hello Stranger, situated at 1724 Broadway in Oakland, has emerged as a popular brunch venue since 2020 known for its modern American dishes. Popular items include 'Avocado Toast' and signature brunch cocktails, attracting a trendy crowd looking for a lively atmosphere. The stylish decor and open layout invite socializing, making it ideal for both small and large groups. Regular events and weekend brunch specials keep the menu fresh and exciting for repeat visitors.
What the videos show
The video opens with a close-up of a red drink garnished with ice cubes and lime slices on a bar counter. The camera then pans to the right, revealing two additional glasses filled with amber liquid and ice, completing a row of three glasses.
1724 Broadway
Lost & Found
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$$EclecticFunCasualThemed cocktailsLoaded TaterKaraoke nights
About the venue
Lost & Found, situated at 2040 Telegraph Ave in Oakland, is a quirky bar and restaurant that emphasizes a fun and eclectic atmosphere since opening in 2016. Known for its vibrant decor and themed cocktail menu, it offers standout dishes like 'Loaded Tater Tots' and 'Fried Chicken Sandwiches.' The large patio and communal tables encourage mingling, attracting a diverse crowd from local residents to students. Regular events include bingo and karaoke nights.
What the videos show
The video captures a panoramic view of a dimly lit bar, starting with a close-up of beer taps and moving across the room to show patrons and staff. It ends with a view of the outdoor area through large windows, revealing more patrons seated at picnic-style tables under string lights.
2040 Telegraph Ave
@dyannaluna
Original Pattern Brewing
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$$CozyFamily-friendlyRelaxedSmall-batch beersLocal artFood trucks
About the venue
Original Pattern Brewing, nestled at 292 4th St in Oakland, focuses on creating small-batch craft beers since its inception in 2017. Visitors are invited to enjoy a variety of styles, including IPAs and sours, in a cozy tasting room that often features local art. The family-friendly environment accommodates all ages, and food trucks frequently park outside, offering diverse dining options. A relaxed vibe makes it a great spot for unwinding after work or meeting with friends.
What the videos show
The video captures a dimly lit bar area with patrons seated at tables. It begins with a camera panning right, showing a man walking behind a table and two women passing each other. The camera continues to pan, revealing more seating areas and patrons, eventually settling on two men sitting at a table.
292 4th St
@dyannaluna
@dyannaluna
Sante Adairius Oakland Arbor
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ArtisanalCommunity-drivenRelaxedCraft beersBeer tastingsArtisan collaborations
About the venue
Sante Adairius Oakland Arbor is a brewery located on 8th St in Oakland, specializing in artisanal beers with a focus on traditional brewing techniques. The brewery boasts a taproom where patrons can sample a rotating selection of craft beers, including seasonal brews and collaborations with local artisans. The space offers a relaxed setting for gathering with friends, showcasing the brewery's commitment to quality and community. Regular events like beer tastings add to the vibrant experience.
What the videos show
The video showcases the interior of a bar, starting from the counter area with beer taps and moving towards the seating area with tables and chairs. The camera pans across various elements like shelves, plants, and artwork.
460 8th St
@whatchiueating
Melo Melo Kava Bar
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$$RelaxedHolisticCommunity-focusedKava drinksCommunity eventsRelaxation space
About the venue
Melo Melo Kava Bar in Oakland focuses on holistic wellness with a variety of kava and herbal drinks. The contemporary space is designed for relaxation, featuring comfortable seating and community events promoting mental well-being. Known for its unique drinks and calming atmosphere, it attracts those seeking a tranquil experience amidst the city bustle. The bar often hosts workshops and social gatherings to foster community ties.
What the videos show
The video showcases the exterior and interior of Melo Melo Kava Bar, highlighting its vibrant atmosphere and offerings. It begins with a street view at night, featuring storefront windows and a 'BLACK LIVES MATTER' sign. The view then shifts to a chalkboard sign outside the kava bar, followed by an inside look at two large blenders filled with light brown liquid and a menu board advertising various drinks and activities. The interior space is briefly shown, featuring couches, plants, flags, and posters. The video ends with a close-up of a frothy beverage in a dark-colored cup on a wooden table.
3264 Grand Ave
@ThaPlantBasedSavage