Thriving 30, Volume 14: Top 5 Bars in Oakland
8 years ago I wrote down 20 bars to try in the bay area. This is my second edition dedicated to my favorite Town, the only Town, Oakland. Why am I not doing this on Yelp? Nah, I’m boycotting Yelp! My writing, my creativity belongs to me. In no particular order (sorry I can’t pick a favorite!!) here is my Top 5* (shout out to Myspace). Note: I have hyperlinked all the bars below to support their business and website!
1. Mad Oak – In my opinion, they have the best beer selection. They always have options from Drake’s Dealership in San Leandro to Fieldwork’s in West Berkeley. Don’t fooled by the unique way they write the beer labels. they also serve hard liquor and yummy cocktails. In my opinion, the best greyhound. So my grapefruit lovers, come, sit on the benches, or even hop upstairs for more seating and a fireplace. Photo Booth to take pictures with your lover, or cornhole(ing? is that a dirty word?) with your buds, perfect for the summer!
2. Bar 355 – Gin and Tonics, with house-made tonic, balanced with a slice of cucumber. The best Gin and Tonics, there’s a slight tartness to the house-made tonic. Usually it is not crowded, there are seats by the bar and lounge seats in the back. There is a small stage, so my guess is that there are small performances on certain nights.
3. The Miranda – They have a variety of cocktails that are updated every season. My friend that enjoys Old Fashioneds tells me that this is one of the best Old Fashioned he has ever had. There was this lemon and gin drink that was so yummy! They have seating in the front and back. I really like the old victorian seats in the back. It is really great for groups or a cozy date. It is right next to the entrance of the 19st BART Station. Parking maybe a little tough, I recommend an Uber or BART.
4. Prizefighter – Technically this is in Emeryville, but this bar is so cool, I had to include it. I love bars that have outdoor seating with fireplace and fairy lights. There is some comfort to it that makes it so romantic but refreshing at the same time. They serve a selection of beer, cocktails, and punchbowls.
5. MUA – An Oakland favorite, Curry’s favorite, my favorite Mua. This bar is the definition of Oakland…and me. Creative art pieces, abstract paintings, high industrial ceilings, great cocktails, small bites. It is right next to car dealerships so it may be hard to find. But the entrance to the bar is something so millennial that you forget this bar has been here when the term millennial has not been defined yet, when the Internet first started, and where the hype was preparing for Y2K. Get the Stormy Oaktown or the Phyzzface. Pretty damn unique in my opinion. It pains me a little to share, don’t want the snooty Marina folks to join and call it “hipster”.
5*. Downtown Wine Merchants – If I am ever craving wine, I come to DTWM. Suzanne, the owner is so damn nice, always welcoming. There are a couple staples, but the wine does rotate. I love the how cheap it is for such an amazing taste. The wine bar is quaint, always kept in good shape no matter how long this establishment has been here. Their flights are 12 buckaroos, how crazy is that? Their flatbreads are amazing, perhaps the best. Who woulda thunk to put shrimp and cheese together? Dessert menu, rose crème brulee. You are welcome.