Cafe Van Kleef

"Before Uptown became the epicenter for craft cocktails and gastropubs, there was Cafe Van Kleef. The iconic spot, which serves the best greyhounds and salty dogs in the Bay, was officially born in 2004 when friends of then-owner Peter Van Kleef convinced him to turn the slow cafe into a full-fledged bar. Though Van Kleef passed away in 2015, his spirit remains in this special bar filled with his tchotchkes and stories." - Ellen Fort, Eater Staff

"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." - Arcsine

"Cafe Van Kleef is a quirky Oakland spot, known for its greyhounds and tchotchkes, and generally being a laidback spot to hang out. Order at least one of the few specialty greyhounds at the start, and soak in the artist vibes of the space while you’re there." - Dianne de Guzman

"Greyhounds are the order of the day here, where the bartenders juice bushels and bushels of fresh grapefruits for the bar’s most popular drink. There’s other liquor available of course, but this classic East Bay institution is known for its classic citrus refresher. Live jazz and dazzlingly eclectic wall-hangings will keep drinkers occupied for hours." - Dianne de Guzman, Ellen Fort

"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."