My favorite bar in Oakland hands down. The ambiance is so unique and fun and they are known for their fresh squeezed grapefruits to make unbelievable greyhounds and palomas. It's located downtown close to the Paramount and The Fox theaters. I usually like to go here after a show. read more

Cheap grapefruit flavored drinks with a good amount of alcohol, a huge slice of grapefruit, and permission to be as loud as I want? sign me up the only thing that could be better about this bar is that I wish it was bigger LOL it can get really crowded on weekend nights. Also kind of a harder spot to get an uber pick up from. Lots of personality and maybe one step up from a divey vibe! great for citrus fans read more

Cafe Van Kleef is just the right amount of funky and eclectic mixed with a splash of dive-bar charm and a garnish of chaos and art. I love places with personality, and this one totally delivered. Go just to enjoy the little Ali Baba cavern of curiosities that it is, you won't regret it. Also, if you're citrus-obsessed like me, they serve fresh grapefruit juice in all its forms and variations and the drinks are delicious! read more

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Fun funky silly place to hang. The cartoonishly large grapefruit slide was actually very welcomed and I don't usually like grapefruit. Had it w vodka and tequila and both were great, the classic is a great drink. read more

Cafe Van Kleef - Jazz & Blues Near Me - Oakland, California

Delicious drinks, funky atmosphere, friendly bartenders, and a great longstanding Oakland tradition. Five stars if you like grapefruit and dark dive vibes. read more

Cafe Van Kleef - Delicious mezcal - Jazz & Blues Near Me - Oakland, California

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Delicious fresh grapefruit juice! Bartenders have always been really nice here. The greyhounds are good and so special that they have fresh grapefruits and put a huge slice on the drink too. read more

Van Kleef is an Oakland classic! If you haven't been, they're known for their fresh grapefruit cocktails! Usually greyhound but they offer it with different liquors. Nice little spot to get your buzz on. read more

Cafe Van Kleef - Jazz & Blues Near Me - Oakland, California

Hands down the best greyhounds. Fresh grapefruit juice. We had a double and it was smooth and easy to drink. We enjoyed chilling in this bar. Unique atmosphere and friendly bartender. I'll definitely be back! read more

Cafe Van Kleef - Bar - Jazz & Blues Near Me - Oakland, California

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This is such a cool dive bar, the decor is unlike anything else I've seen before (super random but super unique) and even the tables look cool! The drinks are cheap as well, ranging from $10-12 for their grapefruit themed drinks which come with an actual large slice of fresh grapefruit! The vibes of Cafe Van Kleef were immaculate and made for a great environment to drink and chat. I'd definitely come back. read more

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This place is pretty cool. Lots to look at and the fresh grapefruit juice and slices are huge and amazing. Not to keen about the mezcal but the vodka was great! read more

A group of friends and I ordered a round of greyhounds late on a Wednesday night. The bar was busy, but not busy enough where it was difficult to get a drink. The bouncer was fun to chat with and our bartender was an angel! The decor in this place is so fun. So many quirky things to look at. The drinks were super delicious! I would absolutely come back here if I'm ever in the area again. read more

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Worth coming to Oakland for on a Friday or Saturday night. Café Van Kleef gives you a real, unfiltered sense of the city's culture -- eclectic, unpretentious, and alive. A true Oakland spot. read more

It's been years since I've been to the café Van Cleef since I lived in Oakland for about a year and many many many years ago. This used to be the bar that we would visit after barhopping, and it would be one of our last locations of the night. They have a great ambience inside the bar is nice and long lots of different options of drinks to choose from. Sometimes on the weekends they have a live band playing so it's really nice to hear while you're just enjoy enjoying a nice time with your friends and catching up. One of my favorite things about this bar is the lighting you know it's very intimate, relaxing, not bright and just a place to really enjoy a nice cocktail. We had a few cocktails here and did some people watching. I had a beautiful night with friends this is a place that you need to visit at the end of the night from bar hopping or just want a nice relaxing finish to your evening hit up the café Van Cleef. read more

We love a local watering hole with a signature drink! I first visited to Cafe Van Kleef years ago to try their Greyhound cocktail. I stopped by last Saturday and the drinks were just as delicious as I remembered. I loved seeing the bartender juice gallons of grapefruit to order. The bar is cool, cult-classic, and divey in feel. Great for dates or friends. It is easily accessible by BART and bus. I would 100% come back again! read more

Cafe Van Kleef - Interior - Jazz & Blues Near Me - Oakland, California

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Went in the other day and got two greyhounds -- $40 I realize prices have gone up a lot but wth? they're getting a little greedy since the old owner died also, the bartenders were some hipsters who vapidly talked shit about some customer for the entire duration of my drink. The drink was good, but I won't be going back. (to be clear, these were both singles, in small glasses with whatever std vodka they put in them. Paid in cash.) read more

Cool spot with an easy to choose drink menu and intriguing decor. Love that they give you a slice of grapefruit to snack on with your drink. read more

This bar was such a vibe, but it was overly crowded, especially on weekend nights. It's a small place with a few bar stools, but you really have to squeeze in between people to be able to navigate the place and/or order a drink. They do have outdoor seatings, which I believe they are currently renovating to offer more space. Whether it is outdoor or indoor seating, I think this bar is worth a visit! The decors are quite unique and fascinating. Inside is dark but filled with colorful lights which makes a pleasant vibe to chat and drink. They specialize in greyhound drinks - specifically their Greyhound Classic. It is a vodka drink with freshly squeezed grapefruit juice. I really enjoyed this drink especially because it did not taste like alcohol. The sweetness and freshness of the grapefruit juice really elevate this drink. read more

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Funny enough, I did not know that this bar existed until I had to wait around to enter the bar next door. So in short, it was a happy coincidence to come across this Oakland staple. Definitely get the grapefruit juice cocktail and add your liquor of choice-- which I chose tequila, and it was excellent. Not super strong, but a refreshing cocktail. They squeeze the juice in front of you at the bar, so you know it's not just the concentrate. It is a bit sticky around here, but I suppose that's what can be expected from a dive bar. Overall though, it's a casual bar, with lots of curiosities to look at. Enjoy! read more

Killer spot. Great vibes. The grapefruit cocktails and slices are a must try. Will be back again!

recently had the (dis)pleasure of visiting Cafe Van Kleef, an Oakland-based steam-punk themed bar that serves grapefruit. As a licensed psychedelic shaman, I am no stranger to unusual and eclectic environments, but this place truly tested my limits. From the moment I stepped inside, the smell of burning hair filled my nostrils, causing my eyes to water and my head to spin. As I looked around, I was confronted with a dizzying array of steam-punk gadgets and gizmos, fire-breathing Bhuddas, and animal heads, all flashing and whirring in a cacophony of noise. Despite my initial discomfort, the staff at Cafe Van Kleef were very nice and seemed to be in high spirits (perhaps a little too high, as they seemed quite drunk). They greeted me warmly and offered me a menu, which featured a variety of greyhound cocktails. I decided to give one a try, hoping it would calm my nerves. Unfortunately, the greyhound did little to quell my mounting sense of unease. As I sipped my drink, I couldn't shake the feeling that I was being watched by unseen eyes. And as the night went on, the bar only seemed to grow more frenzied and chaotic, with the staff singing and dancing as they worked. By the time I left Cafe Van Kleef, I was thoroughly frightened and more than ready to return to the safety and sanity of my own home. While the staff may be nice and the greyhounds strong, I would not recommend this steam-punk themed bar to anyone with a sensitive disposition. read more

Cafe Van Kleef - This guy was there for sure. - Jazz & Blues Near Me - Oakland, California

If you're looking for a fun night out inclusive of live music and a top-notch greyhound... This is definitely your place!! Ventured across this hidden gem bouncing around Oakland on Saturday night with some friends. I think it was because the group wanted live music, but also because one of them was on a "greyhound" kick and wanted a drinkable one after the horrible one we were served at the bar before this place. Anyways, it's irrelevant of how I ended up here, I'm just glad I could find heaven on earth inside of my glass at this place... 1 word... GREYHOUND!! Even if you're not a grapefruit fan you need to give it a try if you're here!! They are SO delicious! They survived the pandemic and hopefully live music and the way it used to be is back in swing before we know it! Regardless, this is still the place to be for greyhounds! read more

What a cool spot! The vibe and the decor was amazing and all the grapefruit drinks I tried were delicious. I'll definitely be coming back again! read more

This bar is in the middle of downtown Oakland, and is well known for their Greyhound cocktail! The inside of the bar has an eclectic atmosphere, with an array of art, collectors items, and theatre props. The back wall of the bar looks like a game of "I Spy". Their Greyhound cocktail is absolutely worth the trip. All of the grapefruits are juiced to order, and makes for one of the most refreshing cocktails I have ever had. I highly recommend stopping here if you are in Oakland and trying it our for yourself! read more

Cafe Van Kleef - Indoor view - Jazz & Blues Near Me - Oakland, California

You know how sometimes, you feel nostalgia for a place or thing from your past, but the reality just doesn't live up to the mythology you've created in your head? So happy to report that, as far as Cafe Van Kleef is concerned, that couldn't be further from the truth. I don't even know when, before July 2023, the last time I visited this bar was. 2008? 2009? All I know is that it is still one of the coolest places I've been. Eclectic, quirky, and with the best damn greyhounds around, what's not to like? A definite East Bay bar by ethos, the crowd is diverse on a variety of demographic metrics, and the place doesn't feel like a scene. You in your 20s and on a date? Come for a drink. Middle aged couple looking to take the edge off? Come for a drink. Punks to professionals, everyone seems at home--and I feel like that's the most you can ask for from a bar, really. I don't think I've ever had anything here but the greyhound, which is hilarious, but why would I? Why fuck with perfection? read more

An Oakland classic! Whether you're grabbing a drink with friends (sizeable tables inside and in the parklet), testing to see if your date can hang (it's a red flag if someone turns their nose up at this place), or squeezing in a Greyhound before a show at the Fox (they still discount $1 if you are going to a show that night), it's always a good time at Cafe Van Kleef. The bouncer and staff are friendly no matter how busy it gets. It took awhile for me to come back since covid happened because it does get packed inside. I haven't been able to snag seats in the parklet, but I'm perfectly happy at the barstools just outside the window/door. It makes for great people watching too. read more

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Believe the hype! This place is amazing. We had to try a few different types of greyhounds, but I think the classic is the best. This place is just a great, old school bar. I wish they had food but I guess they're just focusing on the one thing they do best: greyhounds! read more

Cafe Van Kleef - Jazz & Blues Near Me - Oakland, California

This is a small bar with live music pretty close to a lot of other bars in downtown. They had a violinist playing while we were there. The crowd had more of a punk rock feel to it then jazz. The drinks were pretty cheap and strong. They are known for their greyhound. The decor was interesting lol. A lot of taxidermy and flea market finds. Would definitely come here again for the drink prices and the staff was very friendly and we got drinks pretty quickly while they were busy. read more

Cafe Van Kleef - Inside - Jazz & Blues Near Me - Oakland, California

Shotgun layout Divey The signature drink is a greyhound.. They use fresh squeezed grapefruit juice and garnish it with a wedge of grapefruit. When I went, I was told I must have their greyhound.. and i looked around and the majority of people were drinking this drink. There's only one bathroom (at the very back of the building). It was dark and packed with people. read more

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One of my favorite dive bars in Oakland. Easy parking after business hours. Attentive bar tenders

Can't remember the bartender name but he's the one with the little dog. He was so nice and friendly! Best salty dogs ever! And the bar was so unique in its own way and fun to see. read more

So happy that Van Kleef is open again! I finished a long bike road and could not help but stop myself for a double greyhound. I haven't had a greyhound in over a year since Covid started and boy was it is delicious and strong as I remember! Love the outdoor seating available now - love the bartender - love the two fellow Oakland stranger turned chatting buddies as we made of fun of Oakland, the craziness of all the events the last year, and how downtown Oakland needs a real grocery store (Berkeley Bowl). Love the community. Thank you for staying open VK! read more

Cafe Van Kleef - Jazz & Blues Near Me - Oakland, California

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To the rude male bartender in the tank top last night, I did not appreciate you spraying my friends and I from the bar solely because we did not tip when we asked for water. You made my first experience as bitter as your greyhounds you're so proudly known for. Water is free and not a service, if this is how you treat anyone asking for water I'll take my business elsewhere. read more

How. Have. I. Never. Been. Here!? While wandering around Oakland waiting for a nearby fave to open, we stumbled upon newly closed-to-vehicles Van Kleef Street (or drive of something). My friend came "all the way" from SF to go to my favorite place, and we happen to stumble upon the one place in Oakland he's been to before - Cafe Van Kleef. I looked into the long, old, crazy decorated establishment that of course we couldn't go into, but it looked fascinating. We opened a tab at the entrance table, grabbed a bar table and chairs in the street drinking/dining area, and stayed for hours! Tip: it's hard to miss the fresh grapefruit juice with a giant slice atop whatever cocktail you order it with. The service was so friendly and positive and attentive - and it was busy! It was Saturday, and a fun DJ started around 5 I believe. To satisfy county rules tables are spaced, masks required if you aren't drinking or eating, a few food items are offered, and you can also get drinks to-go in plastic cups! Prices were great too, we had greyhounds and palomas, only $7 each a veritable bargain in the Bay for a fresh juice cocktail! read more

Cafe Van Kleef - Paloma top and Greyhound bottom - Jazz & Blues Near Me - Oakland, California

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Fun cheap and social! My OCD makes me really want to vaccum the stuffed animals :-) A favorite Oakland bar and hang-out.

I have been going to this bar for many years. It is eclectic in both decor and patrons. They serve the best greyhound in Oakland made with fresh grapefruit juice everyday. I highly recommend this spot. read more

Cafe Van Kleef - Jazz & Blues Near Me - Oakland, California

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Not sure what the craze is but I strongly dislike this place. - 1 star for their Greyhound drinks which are good but pricey - The decorations are interesting but thats all there is to this place Negative - - The place is very narrow so the minute you have 10 or more people inside it feels very crowded and your basically becoming one with the wall since there is no room. - Maybe I have reached that age where I want to be able to sit down have a beer and hear what someone is saying to me - this is not the place. Overcrowded, small and very noisy - Pass. read more

Café Van Kleef has been my favorite dive bar in this area since it was just about the only business in this area open at night. My friends and I have started nights here and finished them, enjoying good times and the intimate setting. It might be a little durrrrty for the cocktail crowd, but I like it like that. The bartenders have always been great and service is pretty quick dispite the place gets packed. Café Van Kleef is the reason why I love greyhounds above all other cocktails; once you go fresh squeezed, you don't go back. read more

Cafe Van Kleef - Jazz & Blues Near Me - Oakland, California

$8 for a Greyhound with your alcohol of choice (vodka, gin, tequila) + grapefruit juice (freshly squeezed right before your eyes) + a thick slice of fresh grapefruit? Yes please! I came here on a busy Friday night around 11pm, and it was packed inside for the most part, with barely any room to squeeze by the crowd standing alongside the bar. There's a bit more space and tables/seats near the back. The bartenders were churning out Greyhounds and squeezing grapefruits at an incredible pace to watch; it seemed like the main thing slowing them down was waiting for the credit card machine to process cards. ($10 credit card minimum!) The ratio of alcohol:juice was actually pretty good. I could definitely taste it and felt the usual warmth and "Asian glow" after only one drink - though, admittedly, I flush extremely easily from alcohol. The grapefruit slice was a welcome palate cleanser afterwards and was the perfect combination of sweet and tart. I was tempted to ask for a cup of fresh grapefruit juice or another grapefruit slice, it was that good! As shown in the pictures, the decor is quite eclectic and interesting; seeing it in person is even more amazing. I spent some time just looking around and marveling at their collection of items. Definitely stop by if you're in the area to check it out and enjoy a drink! It's also near a lot of other bars if you're barhopping. read more

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What an awesome environment! Love the best Greyhounds you've ever had in your life!! Always rock'n!

Greyhound. That's all I have to say and that's all you need to know before you make your way to Cafe Van Kleef. Who can say no to freshly squeezed grapefruit and and vodka? During weeknights it's pretty and you'll have no problem getting seating, ordering drinks and having no trouble having a conversation with a date. Weekends on the other hand are another story. If you come here on a weekend, I strongly suggest you order a double in lieu of a single because although the bartenders are fast, the line will remain long and you do not want to wait back in line for a drink. There's usually live music and everyone is dancing and having a great time. Everyone from the staff to the patrons are always so friendly. I especially love the eclectic decor. Even the bathroom are adorned with so many crazy beautiful decorations. You should definitely check this place out. read more

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