I came to relax and partake in a refreshing beverage, but instead I was oppressed. I sat at the bar and waited for well over 30mins, while other people on the side of me and behind me were served. The only differing factor between myself and the people that were serve before me was our skin tone. I'd think twice about spending money at a business that doesn't welcome and serve the black community. Cheers read more

Unique spot, didn't expect to go in but did, drinks ok wish bartender knew where to find the St Germaine other than that it was nice and cool atmosphere and good service. Great for cocktails and first date ! read more

Very innovative drinks in this cool bar that we stopped in before our appointment elsewhere. Loved the drink master uses creative bitters and flavorings of which most I've never heard about before . What was even better is the chef knows his drinks as my wer green grass cocktail was delicious and it tasted a little like grass but in a good way. read more

Drexl Bar is a small gem at the heart of a side street in downtown Oakland. I highly recommend traveling with some friends. The bar is nicely set up. Music is a little loud, so you may find yourself raising your voice at the bartender to place your order. I had a dirty martini. It was ok, not as dirty as I would have preferred, but made in good taste. They have a patio, which I ran to for cover, so I could escape the music and enjoy my time to myself. The weather was clear, but it was a bit brisk outside. It was a good day for breathing, so I did just that. Sipped and breathed while I allowed the drowned-out and finally muffled bass vibration from the music to transport me into relaxation mode. It's dimly lit so it sets the stage for the imagination to run wild. Lots of parking on the street and there are parking lots all around read more

Drexl Bar - This is the landmark photo that you can see right next door to the Drexl Bar. It is literally right next door to this parking lot - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Oakland, California

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Pretty chill and spacious bar. Friday early night and the place was not full. We ended up sitting in the lounge area. But it was close to the sound speakers so eventually we couldn't quite hear each other talk read more

Drexel was a cool spot. I like that it has an indoor-outdoor option, so if you want to hang out outside with your drink or smoke, it's there. The inside is nice. It's got a nice modern feel to it. We got there probably around seven o'clock, p.m., on a Saturday evening. There wasn't a huge crowd, and then as the night continued, it did get a little more crowded. It was a mixed crowd, sort of a grown/mature crowd, if you will. Music was good. Bartenders were nice. They have some interesting cocktails to offer as well, with quite a few options for spirits. If you are a connoisseur of good whiskey or tequila, they had Fortaleza, Siete Leguas, Ocho and quite a few other quality top-shelf alcohols. This was a nice spot, a little off the beaten path. It's a couple blocks away from Broadway, so you don't have to deal with the rambunctious crowd that might gather at the club scene. read more

Drexl Bar - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Oakland, California

We found this place on accident while walking from Lake Merritt on an early Sunday evening & what a happy little accident it was. Greeted warmly, served immediately, drinks were so tasty, & all the patrons were in great spirits. The music was fun & didn't need to yell over it to carry a conversation. I ordered the Clown Lazarus cocktail; Marguerite killed it, I'd be happy to come back for another. Cheers read more

Drexl Bar - Clown Lazarus cocktail by Marguerite - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Oakland, California

I had an amazing cocktail made by Marguerite! Don't ask me what it was besides tasty, smooth, creamy and strong! The bartenders are super helpful in helping you find your "something". It's a super dim, chill place with a good mix of industry professionals to vibe with in downtown Oakland. read more

Drexl Bar - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Oakland, California

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Awesome bar in Oakland that has happy hour from 4 to 6 PM, where all menu items are one dollar off. They have really fun, cocktails with different bases depending on your preference. I went with a Kentucky meringue, which is a perfect in-between for sweet and strong. This is like a whiskey sour without the egg white, and also had additional ingredients such as watermelon, honey, and hazy IPA. They also have craft beer on tap, as well as wine for those who are wine drinkers. They have seating downstairs as well as an upstairs area. Aesthetics is nice, a little dark and intimate, but once people started coming in it became livelier. Definitely give this a try if you're looking for a happy hour with great cocktails. read more

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Drinks were horrible and all tasted like pickle juice. The bartenders remade our drinks and those tasted even worse.

Great vibe, great drinks, dope bartenders (funny, cool, and good looking). Great place for a date. Will come back!

Good drinks! This bar is a gem, good space with fun arcade games. Perfect for a bigger group of friends. Lots of seating and separate floors. I really enjoyed my time at Drexl. Drinks were delicious! read more

Came across this bar and David is the best bartender ever! He was able to curate a cocktail that was in my taste palette and had amazing service! I love this place! read more

Drexl Bar - a drawing of a woman on a wall - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Oakland, California

Nice ambiance. Cool options. Very bad service! Very dismissive bartenders. even on slow evenings. Gave this place three tries (as I often do) hoping that the last would be good; sadly still disappointed. Customer service experience definitely needs to be prioritized! read more

I come up from San Jose to this place all the time. Definitely a spot worth visiting when in the area. The ambiance is chill, everyone is friendly. The drinks are constantly rotating and are top notch. Above all there's the awesome and amazing Bob: super friendly, really knows his stuff and makes the best drinks known to man. Highly recommended read more

The bartenders here are the best. They were so personable and they answered all of our questions without skipping a beat. The cocktail menu is creative and unique but there is also a full bar so they can make almost any cocktail. There is outdoor seating with heat lamps to keep you warm on a chilly Oakland night. Another plus is that there is plenty of street parking around the venue. I definitely recommend stopping by, especially if you want to catch up with friends and actually be able to hear them. It's located near a few popular restaurants so it's also a great spot before or after dinner. read more

Drexl Bar - Songbird - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Oakland, California

Great bar. Drinks are so creative and tastes great!!! The bartenders are always so welcoming and accommodating to the customers needs. All staff are helpful and make you want to keep coming back. read more

I was just there for a beer and the bartender was mad cool. I also had one of the best sours I've ever had. read more

Drexl Bar - Sour - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Oakland, California

Haven't been to Drexy on a minute. First stop with my bestie for her bday. Bar hopping till who knows when . But $5 skee ball? Come onnnnnn. Drinks are amazeballs read more

Drexl Bar - Libations - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Oakland, California

Artisan craft cocktails! Great vibe! Deluxe menu. Nice backyard! Close to 19th St BART & the Fox theater. read more

Drexl Bar - a cocktail in a coupe glass - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Oakland, California

Came after the black joy parade.. not many places were open which I dnt blame them ... after seeing Ashanti a friend and I didn't want to end the night so we came here to have a few drinks.. nice ambiance high ceilings nice decor and good music.. I'm sold... we sat at the bar.. I look over and see my favorite bartender . Yes Now I'm excited cuz I know I'm going to have some great drinks..(I'm not supposed to be drinking) but owell.. definitely coming back .. it was a good way to end a long day read more

Drexl Bar - Dealers choice : whiskey - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Oakland, California

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I can comfortably say that this is my favorite bar in Oakland. I make it a point to always bring friends here who have never been, I love introducing people to this gem. The downstairs has a small selection of tables and the upstairs has some seating as well as a skiballl machine. There is typically always a dj each time I've gone as well. Good for small groups or couples. The bar is beautiful and the drink Menu is delicious, the bartenders are skilled and are always willing to make you something unique based on your taste. read more

Drexl Bar - Drink name unknown but was tropical tasting. - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Oakland, California

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Hadn't been here in quite some time but having said that the drinks were and are always on point ! This is an especially chill spot to hangout, grab a few drinks and enjoy the cool vibes. read more

The ambiance was cute, but staff wasn't very friendly and the signature drinks we had were pretty bad...maybe just an off night for the bartenders. read more

This was my first time here and these guys working tonight (Tuesday) r true mixologists! Absolutely fabulous drinks very chill, mellow, classy vibe yet casual as well. Overall a great place I will be back! read more

Great drinks great ambience legit service would definitely go to multiple times a month!

Drexl, you sexy little thang, you! What a beautiful little bar with the most chill and relaxing vibes! I remember coming here some years back while bar hopping with friends one night. We were pretty toasted, so I couldn't remember the name of the place and was never able to find it after that. Fast forward to now, and I've been reunited! As soon as I walked in, my eyes lit up. This was that bar that I had been searching for. It's tucked away in Uptown right off of 19th street. I absolutely love the vibes here! It's super low key and intimate. It's a great little place to get away and escape the overcrowded Oakland bar scene. Now, don't get me wrong; this place does have its' busy nights. But you'll never have to push and shove your way through people to get to the bar. It's dark and classy with a gorgeous glowing bar! There's an adorable little lounge area upstairs with comfortable sofas and a few old school games. The atmosphere is kind of speakeasy-ish. They play great music here too! The crowd is mixed and everybody comes to truly just have a good time. The bartenders are really cordial. They have a fairly decent beer and wine menu available but their cocktails are where it's at. They make some bomb ass craft cocktails! Their cocktail list rotates but it's easy to find something that you'll like. I love watching the bartenders making drinks here because they're so passionate in their craft. I should also mention that the drinks are pretty strong. Sorry in advance for those super blurry menu pics.... your girl was pretty buzzed! I haven't been here for happy hour but the drinks are a bit on the pricey side. If you're planning on coming here outside of happy hour, be ready to shell out some serious cash! Aside from the high price points, this bar is golden! I will definitely be back again and I can't wait to check them out during happy hour. read more

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UPDATE: ask for a grapefruit beer! You won't be disappointed! I probably spend way to much time here but it's all worth it. At first I didn't want to go because I'm basically a cheap date when it comes to liquor. That and the fact I'm usually stuck in my ways and takes me a while to try something new. But here... they will make you try something new. I first ventured into Drexl for a co-workers birthday bash and I've been hooked ever since. Atmosphere: dark and intimate. Even though it can get a tad bit loud I've spotted a couple making out in the corner. There's plenty of seating complete with comfortable couches including upstairs or downstairs seBeautiful wood grain accents and plenty of standing room if needed. It's basically an upscale bar with the home like feeling of a dive bar. Perks: ski ball and old school pac man. Sometimes they hold tournaments and if you talk to the owner he's usually more than happy to host different parties and events. Staff: definitely a mixed crew. Multiple races and personalities. Bathrooms: pretty clean. I love a bar with a clean bathroom. Liquor: reasonable prices but you aren't going to find your average Jack Daniel's here. You might on occasion but they stick to liquors you aren't going to find at your local liquor store. Would I go back? Yes! Ten times over. If Howie or Cesar is working you will have a great night! If you want to laugh they will laugh with you! If you want to be left alone they will quietly check on you. read more

Drexl Bar - Bar area - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Oakland, California

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Cute spot with happy hour. Nice vibes, comfy booths, good music, tasty wine and beers on tap. 10/10 for a local place to chill and work.

I am giving a 3 because the end result of the night was not a complete disaster, but it got bad enough for us to leave our drinks (first drink) behind and leave as felt threatened but some patron that seems to have been regulars there from the way they were chatting it up with the bartenders. Based only on that part of the experience and how that was "handled" or lack of thereof I would have given a zero and I see in a recent unrelated review that is not uncommon there. Drinks were well done, liked the atmosphere and the music but there is NO way I am ever going back no matter what and I would never recommend this place to anyone. There are plenty of places to go to with good company and have a fun night. I do not need to look over my shoulder when I go out with friends, this place is certainly not for me. Please reconsider how you supervise what is going on at your business for the safety of everyone. read more

Came here several times, its always been fun. Good service and nice atmosphere (it's pretty dark tbh). Drinks have always been good but I've never tried the food. Skeeball and disco upstairs and the door guy's always sharp read more

Love this place. From the vibe to the bartenders. The owners make you feel at home. Parking is great too.

Excellent Craft Cocktails at resealable prices. Knowledgeable and friendly Bartenders. Bob was the best.

I've only been coming here since the pandemic, but it's now my favorite go-to local place. I like that they seem to be open in the evening whenever I'm out, and if you go during the week, parking is super-easy on 19th Street! Bundle up in the winter! It's an old building so the ceilings are high and it's definitely cold inside. Fortunately, I happened to ask if they could make a hot drink, and the bartender offered a hot toddy which wasn't on the menu. She made it with rum, lemon, ginger and chamomile liqueurs, and fresh cinnamon and star anise. I don't know if this is a past drink from their menu, but I recommend they add it until it warms up! read more

Drexl Bar - Amazing hot toddy! Ask the blond bartender with glasses and she will hook you up. - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Oakland, California

Cool, chilled out cocktail bar with a nice interior decor and A chilled out outdoor sitting. The cocktails were a bit hit and miss though read more

Drexl Bar is a nice cocktail bar in downtown Oakland with a festive menu. The bartenders are super sweet and can always whip up something fun if you can't decide what you want. The ambiance is cool, there's 2-levels which makes it feel pretty open. Good place for Happy Hour vibes. read more

I've been hitting up a few of these local bars lately, thanks to my date. Nice location in the heart of downtown Oakland. Perfect for an after work happy hour crowd. There was a big party going on upstairs when we arrived but they was a nice little booth in the front that we got cozy at and spent the evening enjoying one another's company at. The drinks seem to be reasonably priced, I was on a date so I didn't pay but he didn't complain lol The music was like a flashback to 80s rock/pop which wasn't really my thing hence the drop in star but oversell the bar staff was accommodating, walking by regularly to see if our glasses were empty and also getting your drinks refilled. If the music changed to a more soulful playlist this could be a spot I frequent. They have an upstairs area and two unisex bathrooms. If you're being a sober Sam or Sandy for the evening they have a pitcher of water and cups to the left of the bar at your disposal. read more

Drexl Bar - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Oakland, California

Stopped by after Oakland First Friday. It was busy. Nowhere to sit, and not much room to stand either. We ubered to First Friday and walked here, so I'm not sure how parking is. The bar itself, is nice. It's 2 stories, but the 2nd floor is a very small space with a few couches, small standing/dancing area with a DJ. Nowhere to sit so we went back downstairs. Stood around. Got bumped into a lot. The drinks were pretty good at decent prices. $9 for a moscow mule, not bad. It was busy, so it took about 15 minutes each round, waiting at the bar to order drinks. There's an "express lane" if you're just getting beer/wine. I thought that was a cool concept, however, that line was pretty long so not sure how fast it moves. Overall, Drexl is pretty cool and I'd come back again, but would definitely try to score an area with seats. read more

Drexl Bar - view of lower level bar from upstairs - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Oakland, California

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TL;DR: avoid the buff bartender. he needs less time in the gym and more time in therapy. Walked into this bar because I needed the Wifi to work. Pull out your phone and it'll say "Drexl Free Wifi" as a connection option. Sit down, order a spicy cocktail and try to connect to the internet so I can work at this bar which clearly showcases its Wifi. (Evident by the name "Drexl Free Wifi") Discover that the Wifi isn't working. I ask the bartender if maybe he can reset the router really quickly. He says he doesn't know how. He's a grown man. Anyway, no wifi, no reason for me to be at THIS bar when if i wanted to get drunk, I could drink ANYWHERE. I chose this bar because the Wifi. Full stop. So, i tell the bartender that I won't be staying here, because whats the point if i can't work? MIND YOU I NEVER TOUCHED THE DRINK. He proceeds to try to guilt trip me into paying for the drink and his body language was less than cordial. Telling me how hard it was for him to make this drink and it was sitting there a whole 5 minutes, boo hoo. He proceeds to 86 me for life, FOR THIS ONE DRINK, and puts his camera phone in my face to record the experience. If i didnt know he was trying to humiliate me, I would have been humiliated. What blows my mind is his little smirk when he saw how uncomfortable I was with having his camera in my face... almost like he got off on making other people feel small. Later that night I spent over $100 at Cafe Van Kleef and Make Westing: two vastly superior establishments. Moral of the story: 86ing someone over one drink when your wifi isn't working is really bad for business. read more

Wow, not sure why this bar has a low rating. This place is dope! It has a chill vibe and doesn't get overly crowded. The staff are all very friendly. There's an upstairs with some tables and a single skee-ball machine. On weekends, the music is old school hip-hop and maybe some soft rock. While any bar is pretty casual, this cocktail bar is a little more grown & sexy, but don't feel pressured to dress to the T, it's not THAT kind of place. It looks like a bar all the new techies would go to (if that's your thing or not). Their cocktails are pretty and taste good. They have tvs so they do play Warrior games here. I don't think they have food service here though. Although there's no dance floor, don't let that stop you from dancing in the middle of the bar, totally acceptable. I like this place to start off my night. It's a little more intimate than other bars like Mad Oak, Drakes, etc. read more