Oakland
Rio California
Brazilian restaurant · Old City
"Rio California, Downtown Old Oakland by Pitch Interactive. Located in Preservation Park, this Brazilian lunch spot offers delicious plates with sizeable portions. The Jerk Chicken plate and Chicken Croquettes are some of our favorites. All of their dishes come with side salads and some with beans and rice. Take advantage of the outside seating on their porch or get your meal to go and eat it under a tree in the park. The owner himself will walk around, ask how everything tastes and offers extra dressing or gravy for the rice plates. Definitely stop by and experience real Brazilian cuisine and hospitality."
E. M. Wolfman General Interest Small Bookstore
Permanently Closed
"E.M. Wolfman General Interest Small Bookstore, Downtown Old Oakland by Pitch Interactive. Wolfman Books is many things (in case the name didn’t tip you off). It’s a bookstore, art gallery, performance venue, and home to many independent publications/posters/zines and a residency program. Hard to believe this small space hosts so much, we know. But the shop teems with artistic passion, which makes it the ideal spot for creative (intimate) gatherings."
The Cook and Her Farmer
Oyster bar restaurant · Old City
"The Cook and Her Farmer, Downtown Old Oakland by Pitch Interactive. This cafe, oyster and wine bar prides itself on “gathering around the table for honest foods”. So since we’re being honest, it’s freaking delicious. We highly recommend “Oakland’s own Po’ Boy”, if not for the name then definitely for the tangy spread, cornmeal fried oysters and unique garnishes (an olive, a dandelion and stack of pickles). The best part is that you may be served by the cook herself. Can’t get more homey than that."
Oakland Museum of California
Museum · Civic Center
"Oakland Museum of California, Downtown Old Oakland by Pitch Interactive. The Oakland Museum hosts collections and programs that combine art, history and the natural sciences to explore Oakland’s and California’s identities. One of our favorite events is Friday Nights @ OMCA. It’s a happy mix of Off the Grid food trucks, live music, dancing lessons, half-off gallery admission, and more. Whatever you do, don’t miss a stroll through the gardens. The walk pairs well with a ginger tequila cocktail (on Fridays)."
B-Dama
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"B-Dama, Downtown Old Oakland by Pitch Interactive. Fresh flavors and solid portion sizes make B-Dama our favorite spot to grab a steaming bowl of udon soup or tuck into some fresh sushi rolls. Vegetarians will love the tofu steak option while meat eaters adore the pork misozuke. If you go, don’t forget to top your meal off with a matcha affogato, a scoop of vanilla ice cream served with a shot of green tea."
Radio
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"Radio Bar, Downtown Old Oakland by Pitch Interactive. Nothing like unwinding after a day at work with a strong drink at Radio, a neighborhood dive bar. This downtown watering hole is just a short walk from the 12th St BART. The place is definitely grungy but their bartenders are friendly and go out of their way to make sure patrons are enjoying themselves and their drinks. Expect loud music and lowlights; beware of the bathrooms."
Anula's Cafe
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"Anula's Cafe, Downtown Old Oakland by Pitch Interactive. This tiny lunch spot is a hidden gem serving daily specials with Sri Lankan and Jamaican flavor flair. Locals love this spot because the owner and her family serve up the food themselves and offer hot plate specials for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. Their dishes range from jerk chicken, Caribbean style chicken roti burritos to curry lentils and brussel sprouts with tofu. Each plate has a variety of zest from spicy curries to the tangy pineapple chutney served on every dish. They also serve sandwiches, soups and salads but we would definitely recommend their daily special if you’re looking to be adventurous."
Miss Ollie's
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"Miss Ollie's, Downtown Old Oakland by Pitch Interactive. For your Caribbean kick. The bright eatery makes us feel as though we’ve teleported to a nearby island for sugary sips and spicy bites. A forewarning: The whole menu may tempt you. Our saving grace is ordering a side of fried chicken if we venture from it as a main course. And believe us, there’s always room for one of Miss Ollie's drumsticks."
modern coffee
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"Modern Coffee, Downtown Old Oakland by Pitch Interactive. There is no better way to start your day with a coffee and pastry from Modern Coffee. This small coffee shop has many options for the java enthusiast. From a simple, yet delicious drip coffee to an espresso topped with a little latte art, you really cannot go wrong. Their selection of pastries varies from day to day, but there is always something for everyone. They also offer lavender syrup which is a great addition to any beverage."
Umami Mart
Home goods store · Piedmont Avenue
"Umami Mart, Downtown Old Oakland by Pitch Interactive. Handsome mixology instruments and elegant glazed ceramic cups will lure you in and toward the back of the store, where you’ll find the good stuff: a fine sake selection, Japanese beers of all varieties, and shrubs for mixing. (In a nook behind that is a veritable convenience store of imported snacks.) On the way, you’ll pass framed prints and plenty more fine design—mainly Japanese with some Scandinavian for extra good measure. Kanpai!"
Cafe Gabriela
Cafe · Chinatown
"Cafe Gabriela, Downtown Old Oakland by Pitch Interactive. From the coffee to the fresh baguettes served on their sandwiches, this Filipina Bay Area woman owned café is all about serving only the freshest, locally sourced produce and products. The Café is known for their adobo inspired pulled pork sandwich and their knack for never skimping on the portions. You can get their adobo style pulled pork sandwich or dry cured salami sandwich matched with a side salad tossed in homemade balsamic dressing and chunks of mozzarella cheese for a full spread. Definitely stop by if you want a taste of local, homemade goodness."
The Trappist
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"The Trappist, Downtown Old Oakland by Pitch Interactive. Snuggled in Oakland’s Old Town district, this classic pub offers a wide selection of beers on tap of the finest grade. Along with beers, they typically have at least one cider option available on tap. Their pub food is not to be taken lightly. You’ll see things like bratwurst or grilled cheese on the menu, but rest assured they are of the highest caliber of pub foods. This gem of a pub is not to be passed up if you visit Oakland."
Mad Oak Bar ‘N’ Yard
Bar · Civic Center
"Mad Oak Bar, Downtown Old Oakland by Pitch Interactive. The competition among Oakland’s bar scene is fierce, but new-comer Mad Oak has already turned heads with its tasty cocktails and expansive beer selection. We love to sample the unique sour brews or grab a velvety-smooth nitro beer. But our favorite thing about this place has to be the mammoth rooftop patio. It’s the perfect spot to watch an A’s game or make the most of a sunny Oakland afternoon."
Rosamunde Sausage Grill
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"Rosamunde Sausage Grill, Downtown Old Oakland by Pitch Interactive. The original Rosamunde is a tiny stall across the Bay with only a few stools for the rare diner who doesn’t take their Wurst next door to the legendary beer bar. The new locations, including this Oakland one, bring it all under one roof with a dizzying selection of sausages —from duck-and-fig to a classic brat— and a rotating selection of craft beers on tap. Just don’t forget to top it off with some whole-grain mustard and curry ketchup."
Ratto's
Deli · Old City
"Ratto's International Market, Downtown Old Oakland by Pitch Interactive. Ratto’s has been family-owned for at least four generations, and their years of experience show. We love the bright flavors of the lentil salad and the creative weekly sandwich creations. While waiting for your deli order, it’s always fun to browse the shelves. Expect to find exotic spices, candy-colored pastas, and unique cheeses from around the world."
Cosecha
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"Cosecha, Downtown Old Oakland by Pitch Interactive. A perennially-long line is a primary indicator of a popular lunch spot, and if you get in this one (which you should), you’ll first notice tortillas being hand-made in the open-plan kitchen. Then you’ll spot the daily specials on a chalkboard—mole verde, various seafood tacos, that Bay Area rarity—and further along, chips, and aguas frescas—before you even hit the register. Get one of each! Stop in on a weekend for a (maybe) shorter line and some perfectly-seasoned huevos."
Alchemy Bottle Shop
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"Alchemy Bottle Shop, Grand Lake Lake Merritt by Huge. Looking for a curated selection of spirits? This boutique has everything you need to create your own killer cocktail and they focus on small, independent producers. From the crisp, light decor to the craft artisanal spirits, this shop is truly one of a kind. Don't forget to check out the extensive selection of bitters that you can sample in store."
Shakewell
Tapas restaurant · Trestle Glen
"Shakewell, Grand Lake Lake Merritt by Huge. Executive Chef Jen Biesty and General Manager Tim Nugent have created an incredible restaurant in the heart of Oakland. Shakewell's menu focuses on Mediterranean flavors with unique twists, like the chili chocolate braised short rib and the Serrano ham with persimmons and honey hazelnuts. Attention is clearly paid to the service as it is reliably warm and friendly."
Jong Ga House
Korean restaurant · Adams Point
"Jong Ga House, Grand Lake Lake Merritt by Huge. Jong Ga House has been serving up authentic Korean food for 15 years. There's always a full house, so be sure to plan ahead if you want to grab dinner after 8 pm. Every meal starts with 15 small dishes of cold appetizers. Try the spicy tofu soup, the seafood pancake and of course the authentic Korean barbecue."
Walden Pond Books
Book store · Lakeshore
"Walden Pond Books, Grand Lake Lake Merritt by Huge. This surprisingly voluminous bookstore has thrived for more than 40 years. That's partly because the staff prides itself on really knowing its stock and being the original recommendation engine before Amazon ever existed. Located on Grand Avenue and surrounded by a variety of restaurants, you'll often find customers waiting for their tables browsing the aisles. The kid's section has a handmade feel and the rare book room is gorgeous and full of first editions and other treasures."
The Star on Grand
Pizza restaurant · Lakeshore
"The Star, Grand Lake Lake Merritt by Huge. If you're looking for Chicago-style pizza, this is the real deal. Fresh ingredients, awesome deep dish, beer and wine make this place a perfect lunch, dinner or happy hour spot. You can make a reservation or walk-in."
The Alley | Piano Bar & Restaurant
Piano bar · Lakeshore
"The Alley, Grand Lake Lake Merritt by Huge. Founded in 1933, this is the last remaining example of a series of open mic piano bars that were scattered around the city. The singing talent level is extremely variable, but the applause is always warm and polite. Local icon pianist Rod Dibble has played there since 1960, knows 4000 songs by heart and still shows up several times a week. The decor is "haunted house" supplemented by thousands of business cards stapled to the walls."
Smitty's Cocktails
Cocktail bar · Lakeshore
"Smitty's Cocktails, Grand Lake Lake Merritt by Huge. If you're looking for original mixologist cocktails and a highly "considered" experience, then Smitty's says you can F off. Smitty's offers stiff drinks, pinball, a pool nook and a jukebox full of eclectic choices for locals and others who know that real fun can be real simple. Cash only, so hit the ATM!"
536 Grand Ave
Lake Merritt
"The Sacred Well, Grand Lake Lake Merritt by Huge. A wide selection of crystals, herbs, tokens and trinkets line the walls of this new age shop. The perfect place to go for all your metaphysical needs, the staff at The Sacred Well will help you find exactly what you're looking for, and maybe even a few things you didn't realize you were looking for in the first place. Feeling adventurous? Book a session with one of the shop's readers."
Room 389
Bar · Adams Point
"Room 389, Grand Lake Lake Merritt by Huge. Over the past five years this bar, lounge and cafe has garnered a healthy following of locals, and with good reason. Step through the front door into a space filled with warm wood and rustic decor. The nighttime vibe is somehow both lively and laid back. You can grab a cup of Bicycle Coffee Co. drip or french press and pastries from Starter Bakery in the morning. Our favorites? The Bloody Mary and anything from the spiked coffee menu is great."
Ordinaire Wine Shop & Wine Bar
Wine store · Lakeshore
"Ordinaire, Grand Lake Lake Merritt by Huge. Wine and cheese, what more do you need? This charming wine shop and bar has a rotating selection of wines by the glass each day. Ordinaire specializes in natural wines from France, Italy, Spain and California. A special treat: they occasionally host pop-ups and special events, so sign up for their newsletter for the latest!"
Oaktown Spice Shop
Spice store · Adams Point
"Oaktown Spice Shop, Grand Lake Lake Merritt by Huge. This apothecary-style spice shop has everything you need for a vibrant, fragrant and flavorful meal. Owners John Beaver and Erica Perez have created a unique spot with specialty spices and blends for every palate. The shop occasionally hosts events and they sell excellent kits like the curry lovers gift box and a finishing sea salt sampler."
Oak Common
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"Oak Common, Grand Lake Lake Merritt by Huge. Designers, rejoice! This boutique has a carefully curated assortment of men's and women's clothing, as well as unique gift items. With Shibori pillows, fragrances, brands like Bridge & Burn and even the latest issue of Kinfolk, there's something for everyone. It's clear there's a lot of care put into which items are selected for the store."
Michael Mischer Chocolates
Chocolate artisan · Lakeshore
"Michael Mischer Chocolates, Grand Lake Lake Merritt by Huge. With designer bars and filled chocolates from confectioner and pastry chef Michael Mischer, there's something for everyone at this hidden treasure of a shop on Grand Avenue. Whimsical flavors like baked apple, lavender honey, and Kentucky bourbon are a treat. They also have incredible gelato in a variety of flavors."
Lakeview Bicycle
Bicycle Shop · Adams Point
"Lakeview Bicycle, Grand Lake Lake Merritt by Huge. The go-to neighborhood bike shop with everything you need for a ride around town. If you're looking for a tune up, repairs or parts you can count on the team at Lakeview Bicycle to get you set up and moving."
JJ Burger
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"JJ Burger, Grand Lake Lake Merritt by Huge. Let's be honest, nobody's coming here for décor. They come for one of the most reliably delicious handmade burgers in the city. Bonus: it has no public reputation beyond the locals so there's never a crowd."
Heart & Dagger Saloon
Bar · Trestle Glen
"Heart & Dagger Saloon, Grand Lake Lake Merritt by Huge. This classic, good times dive is a great place to relax with friends and get in a game of pool or pinball. The outdoor patio is complete with a lemon tree, wifi and is dog friendly for those of you who want to bring your furry friends. It's cash only, so be prepared!"
Grand Lake Theatre
Movie theater · Lakeshore
"Grand Lake Theatre, Grand Lake Lake Merritt by Huge. Step into this piece of history and see the latest films in ornate auditoriums. You can easily find it by its large, animated light displays: fireworks on the roof and a waterfall of fire over the marquee. Although movies are shown with the latest projectors and sound systems, this historic landmark opened in 1926 showing vaudeville and silent films, and is considered one of the top ten vintage theaters in the United States. Today, you can still catch a matinee for $6!"
Grand Lake Kitchen - Lake Merritt
American restaurant · Adams Point
"Grand Lake Kitchen, Grand Lake Lake Merritt by Huge. A lively spot to grab breakfast, lunch or dinner during the week. You can sit at the counter or at an outdoor table on the sidewalk with great views of Lake Merritt, and don't forget to browse the specialty grocery items at the front of the space. Brave the line to grab their legendary brunch over the weekend, we love the pork belly hash and the chilaquiles."
Enssaro Ethiopian Restaurant
Ethiopian restaurant · Adams Point
"Enssaro Ethiopian, Grand Lake Lake Merritt by Huge. A local Ethiopian institution, Enssaro's food and atmosphere never disappoint. Try the Messer Wot, red lentils slow-cooked with Ethiopian spices, or the vegetarian sampler platter. The sambusas are always a great choice and don't forget to grab some injera to use for sampling main dishes."
Coach Sushi
Japanese restaurant · Lake Merritt
"Coach Sushi, Grand Lake Lake Merritt by Huge. Don't let the low-key interior fool you, this place offers sushi of noteworthy quality. They also offer bottomless sake (the menu has a polite note about stopping before you become a jerk) in a cedar box that you are invited to personalize and decorate so that you can reuse it when you return. And return you will. Try the Yakitori and choose from a variety of traditional rolls and menu items like udon and tempura dishes."
Sister Restaurant
Permanently Closed
"Boot & Shoe Service, Grand Lake Lake Merritt by Huge. Boot and Shoe Service is a pizzeria and cafe that uses seasonal ingredients, has great cocktails and communal tables for enjoying your meal. Try one of the pasta dishes or the Margherita pie and note they request no electronic devices be used at the table! No reservations, so prepare yourself for a wait during prime dinner hours and pop into Walden Pond Books next door to pass the time."
The Gardens at Lake Merritt
Garden · Gold Coast
"Bonsai Garden, Grand Lake Lake Merritt by Huge. This garden is a hidden treasure that houses some of the most important bonsai in the United States. The collection of bonsai on display changes regularly and around 100 bonsai are on display at any given time. Docents can provide information about all of the amazing things to see at the garden. The collection includes one tree gifted to Lincoln and another estimated to be 1,600 years old! Admission is free."
Bay Grape
Wine store · Adams Point
"Bay Grape, Grand Lake Lake Merritt by Huge. Buy a bottle to go or stay and enjoy it with friends. This community-focused wine shop has a variety of classes and tasting events where you can enjoy delicious wine and learn some fun facts while you imbibe. Owners Stevie and Josiah will make you feel more like you're at a friend's place than a wine shop. A friend who knows a lot about wine, that is."
Arizmendi Bakery
Bakery · Trestle Glen
"Arizmendi Bakery, Grand Lake Lake Merritt by Huge. One of six bakeries in the co-op, this spot boasts some of the best pizza in town. Arizmendi is famous for their vegetarian "pizza of the day" on thin, sourdough crust, but they also have a variety of excellent pastries, breads, muffins and daily salad options to choose from."
The New Parish
Live music venue · Downtown
"The New Parish, Uptown by Arcsine. The New Parish is a dark, intimate and energetic music venue that features performances by national musicians and DJs. Its eclectic range of artists offers everything from electronic music and reggae, to bossa nova to name a few. They also have a monthly DJ event which combines great music with local painters, jewelry-makers and clothing vendors that reside on the upper mezzanine level for patrons to peruse when taking a break from the dance floor. The centrally placed stage and nearby courtyard allow for a variety of experiences, easily allowing for either a great view of the show or a break from the action. Drinks are reasonably priced (strong) and the overall vibe is quite welcoming."
King Kog Bicycle Shop
Bicycle Shop · Gold Coast
"King Kog Bicycle Shop, Uptown by Arcsine. Choice cities for this full service bike shop, with locations in Oakland and Brooklyn only, King Kog is killin' it on both coasts. Catering to the cycle craze, these professionals will get you on or back on the road, "before or after hours...No problem!" They'll keep you looking good too - see their selection of branded jerseys, caps, water bottles, socks and the finest of bikes and cycling gear. Support these active and worthy members of the Oakland cycling community."
DREXL
Bar · Downtown
"Drexl Bar, Uptown by Arcsine. Drexl is an inviting, low-lit cocktail bar a bit tucked away from the mayhem of Broadway. The core of steady followers know and adore this venue precisely for their expertly made cocktails - sans snooty bartender. Whether you're starting or ending your night, Drexl makes for a great friend night, date night or solo excursion with dealer's choice as a mainstay on the menu and Skeeball for your gaming pleasure."
Lost & Found Beer Garden
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"Lost & Found Beer Garden, Uptown by Arcsine. With loads of bevies, food and garden-y greenness, Lost & Found is an inviting space you could stay for hours. It’s not too hipster and certainly not posh, though the inside is welcoming and spacious. The back deck is really where the party's at, with picnic tables, ping-pong and corn-hole games at the ready and plenty of umbrellas for that mid-day heat. Don't skip out too soon though, a sweet shift happens during the golden hour as the sun sets and market string lights twinkle above."
Liba
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"Liba Falafel, Uptown by Arcsine. Liba Falafel is the first brick-and-mortar location of the beloved gourmet food truck of the same name. The fast-causal restaurant offers fresh falafel which customers top off with rotating offerings of various seasonal sides, salads, and sauces in a DIY style falafel bar. The restaurant is colorful and eclectic, with counter style seating on the ground floor, as well as a small mezzanine overlooking the din of the usually packed space."
Coloso Coffee
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"Coloso Coffee, Uptown by Arcsine. Coloso Coffee has certainly removed the doldrums from their Uptown stretch of concrete. Clean vibes emanate from the minimalist atmosphere with few antiquated touches, recalling traditions that stand the test of time. Crafting care through their good service and good treats - Coloso serves locally made biscuits and pastries with Heart Roaster coffee and Steep tea."
1721 Webster St
Building · West End
"RAWR, Uptown by Arcsine. For your cat's dietary needs, this cleverly named cat food shop makes one-of-a-kind fodder for your feline. RAWR produces raw, environmentally conscious cat food - meaning that by procuring ingredients from local farms they are contributing to sustainable farming practices. The best part is you can understand every ingredient on a RAWR label! Word on the street - cats love it."
Parlour
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"Parlour, Uptown by Arcsine. Parlour is the sibling of, neighboring, Bar 355, who's owners dreamed of a restaurant with a "seasonal, chef-driven menu". Italian inspired plates made from California fresh ingredients with local and international wine offerings make an evening at Parlour - feel good delicious. The wood-fired oven scent and folksy art help you cozy up to a craft cocktail or local brew. And if daylight is your only chance, cafe hours keep the bar hoppin', especially if you want your coffee shaken not stirred."
Field Day & Friends
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"field day and friends, Uptown by Arcsine. Field day & friends is a hand crafted boutique that opened late spring of 2013. The store sells beautifully crafted clothing, jewelry and artwork using recycled and rescued materials. We imagine they 'have a field day' with scrap fabric, vintage buttons and other found materials. First Fridays are a particular celebration with a gallery style opening featuring a designer and visual artist, beverages of course, and to top it off a professional photo booth. Everything is made in the U.S., but most items are produced, with care, in Oakland."
Oaklandish
Clothing store · Downtown
"Oaklandish, Uptown by Arcsine. For all things Oakland, Bay Area or California, but mostly Oakland, Oaklandish is the store for you. Forever immortalized on t-shirts, hoodies, hats, pins, socks, bandannas and of course skateboards, it's your choice what flavor or neighborhood of Oakland you want to represent. You'll find a healthy dose of local icons: the Port of Oakland cranes, the city's tree logo, Lake Merritt, the sugar skull. Other Bay Area hoods have a designated rack near a selection of Levi's and locally made goods to round out their selection. Our top pick: a toddler shirt melding the West Oakland BART rails with Fairyland’s iconic Jolly Trolly."
modern coffee
Coffee shop · Downtown
"Modern Coffee II, Uptown by Arcsine. Modern Coffee’s second location is a vibrant and relatively new addition to Uptown Oakland. Just as with their original location downtown, Modern Coffee’s 19th street location offers delicious coffees from a rotating collection of roasters, espresso drinks and freshly made pastries. The recently remodeled space is bright and contemporary, offering a variety of seating types to hunker down, either solo or with a group."
Oakland Ice Center
Ice skating rink · San Pablo Gateway
"Oakland Ice Center, Uptown by Arcsine. The Oakland Ice Center is tucked away on 18th street between the hopping bar scene on Telegraph and an old piano shop on San Pablo. The rink has a bit of a high tech architecture vibe - a large red swooping metal roof with pars of angled steel columns greet you at the front of the building. Inside, the air ducts are painted vivid blue, while the structure is the same bright orange-y red. The Center has two large ice surfaces allowing for frequent public skate times making it easy to stop in, grab some skates, feel the cold air and practice your triple Salchow. If hockey is your jam, join a league or the ice dancers or the curling club. One of only a few ice rinks still operating in the Bay Area the Oakland Ice Center offers a unique activity amidst the bar and restaurant scene of Uptown Oakland."
The Hatch Oakland
Gastropub · Downtown
"The Hatch | Abura-ya, Uptown by Arcsine. "Abura-ya" means "oil house" in Japanese. Any kind of oil, really, which is fitting, because this is the place to go for delicious fried chicken (or tofu), and it moves from place to place. Catch this pop-up restaurant every workday lunch at The Hatch (402 15th St) and four times a week for dinner down the street at Garden House (380 15th St)....they're also known to pop up occasionally in San Francisco, but not that often. It's really an Oakland thing. Sometimes there are feature performances from 3'O Clock Rock- the punk rock after-school program down the street. By night, Hatch is a cool place to hang out for Oakland beers, comfort food, and events like live music and comedy."
Frank H. Ogawa Plaza
Park · Downtown
"Frank Ogawa Plaza, Uptown by Arcsine. Frank Ogawa Plaza is the heart of downtown civic life. Three major avenues converge on this site to create a dynamic cluster of pedestrian corridors and pocket plazas with seating centered around an enormous oak tree. Eateries, cafes, and city buildings draw many people to cross paths through the terraced space. Unofficially renamed Oscar Grant Plaza during the Occupy movement, this open space has been the epicenter of over 100 years of social justice movements in Oakland."
Cafe Van Kleef
Cocktail bar · Downtown
"Cafe Van Kleef, Uptown by Arcsine. This bar looks like a torn page from an "I Spy" book, with walls decked out in memorabilia, oil portraits, dusty musical instruments, feather boas and taxidermy of all species. Order the Greyhound, a mix of vodka and freshly-squeezed grapefruit juice, and ask for a "Salty Dog" if you want it rimmed with salt. Be warned- it's hella strong and goes down easy."
Era Art Bar & Lounge
Permanently Closed
"Era Art Bar, Uptown by Arcsine. Era Art Bar has an air of mystery. With minimal street presence you wouldn't know the interior is so substantial. Its long reclaimed wood bar has plenty of seating and is lined with large pendants and flat screens. You’ll notice groups of seating as you scan the periphery; cozy nooks for groups of friends that want their own space. Sporadically placed art makes for a nice cruise-around if you're doing laps with a cocktail - much to soak in. With all the space you're sure to find a seat but, let it be known, if you go on a game day be prepared for a crowd!"
The Cathedral of Christ the Light
Catholic cathedral · Gold Coast
"The Cathedral of Christ the Light, Uptown by Arcsine. This modern day cathedral combines contemporary aesthetics with the age-old spirituality of filtered natural light. An elevated concrete plaza leads to the entry way with a spacious grassy park-like area with views of Lake Merritt and the surrounding neighborhood. Upon entry, the building’s curved shell of fritted glass allows light to accentuate the warm textures of wood within the voluminous space. As patterns of light escape around the fish scale ceiling, one can't help be reminded of the constant presence and evolution of divinity in life. The lower level contains a mausoleum surrounded by materials that further evoke thoughts of tranquility. The building is generally open to the public, with a bookstore, cafe and free cathedral tours for your own communal or contemplative experience."
Analog
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"Analog, Uptown by Arcsine. Walking up to Analog, you're greeted with a roped off seating area that looks like the outside of a bar, all black trim and a red logo. Inside, a vivid collection of VHS tapes and an old school television plays 'old' films and entertains the patrons. The geometric pendants and graffiti work add a young, vibrant feel amidst older architectural finishes and the lone gilded frame. No frills, just really good food and small, fun touches. Overall, Analog is snug, bright and friendly space with a cool underground vibe."
Plum Cocktail Bar
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"Plum Bar, Uptown by Arcsine. Plum Bar's cozy, crafted environment was one of Uptown Oakland's foodie trendsetters. Almost everything is homemade, at the very least novel, from mezcal ketchup and ginger beer to smoked fries and Albacore over romesco. The custom Zen-esque style and symmetries are present in details from the furniture to the table settings. Intimate or group occasions will find a rich experience here, Plum Bar and their brussel sprouts, are not-to-be-missed."
Duende
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"Duende, Uptown by Arcsine. Duende, the spirit concerned with the balance of light & dark, the evoking of soul and catering to a heavy heart, is the concept of Spanish folklore that inspired this progressive restaurant. With interesting combinations of traditional and contemporary Spanish cuisine from tapas dishes to large paellas, the exuberant Paul Canales continues to exceed expectation. The scene is energetic, with dynamic lighting emanating from custom metal light fixtures and curated art as inspired by the folklore concept. The bodega side is a retail treat, full of eclectic wines, perfect for at home food pairing."