Great vibes, service and staff. I love how this place has grown over the years. Big shout out to Ricardo and Carlos for always going above and beyond to make sure my friends and I have a great time and feel safe. If you haven't been here definitely check it out! read more

The lady bartender is nice lol I can't remember her name but I had a good time I've been here twice I remember one time I had to pay and it was like wow small but nice atmosphere read more

Tei was AMAZIIIIIIING! Best bottle girl and mani the bartender is bomb as wellllll always coming back

This review is for the back bar and bartender, JB. If you're at Hello Stranger on a night when the back bar is open, you're in luck! It's much more efficient and quick to get your drink (and you're more likely not to have one spilled on you)! JB is extremely attentive and precise when you order a cocktail from him. He's also lots of fun and brings really positive energy to the back room. When the line for a drink isn't crazy long he will put a lot of care and time into your cocktail! However, this is a club and one should be prepared for massive crowds and lots of energy at this place. This has become the main spot to go dancing in oakland these days, despite its small size. Lastly, I appreciate that they carry an amber ale! read more

Hello Stranger - Back bar - Bars Near Me - Oakland, California

See all

An okay "club" but more like a full bar and lounge. The "bottle service" is lacking in quality. Standard alcohol choices but bland presentation. The music was okay but a little dated. Overall I don't think I'd ever come back (for my own pleasure) or recommend it. read more

I have been frequenting Hello Stranger for years, and have always had a great experience whenever I stop in. Most times I have too much fun. My most recent visit was to celebrate my birthday, and the staff went above and beyond to make my day a special one. Great music, strong drinks, and a fun time is what you get here. One of my favorite spots and I will definitely keep coming back. read more

Just found out 3 months later after randomly going through my Credit Card Statements that this business tacked on Extra Tip to my bill. I take pictures of receipts for reasons - BEWARE!! Writing a review solely to express my personal experience visiting back in May 2021. read more

Manifair is the absolute best bartender on this block! And the security is hella nice and always gives us VIP treatment. Everytime I've gone in it's been packed with good vibes thanks to Mani read more

My friends an I (a larger group of about ~20 people) tried to going here after First Friday. We waited about 1 hour until getting into the front of the line. At that point, they let in 5 people in our group. The remainder of our group waited for another hour at the front of the line. When asking the bouncer the approximate time, he discourteously tell us that he could not "it was still early" and that "we'd get in eventually". We eventually left after waiting 2.5 hours and it'd didn't seem that we'd get in anytime soon. We'd explain that some of our group was waiting inside for us, but was eventually ignored. I don't think that it's cool to separate a group and then also to not give an approximate ETA - I've never seen this at any of the clubs I've been to. TIP: 1) Don't go during First Fridays 2) Sign up for the guest list read more

Hello Stranger is my favorite bar to go to when I want to dance and have fun with my friends. I have been coming since it open years ago. The staff is amazing including Coco, El and Carlos. The owners Bill, Josh and Summer are true owners who have a very big presence at their business. There is always a great mix of people and I love the music they play. I always recommend HS to anyone wanting to go out in Oakland. read more

My favorite bar in Oakland. I love that they're open 7 days a week so after a long day I can stop in for a quick drink. The bartenders are super friendly and know how to mix a drank. And did I mention the FROZAY! IYKYK. read more

Awesome vibe and staff. Sometimes gets a little too crowded and rowdy, but that's the charms of oakland.

The music is weak asf.. definitely don't recommend if your Black!! The DJ (light skin Black guy, black beanie, in his 40s/50s) doesn't play any new aged music... he's only plays his type of shit! I requested Big Cat - 10millibang and he didn't even play it even though he said he would. The whole night was literally just old R&Bs and slow songs... I'm tryna twerk on my man and can't even do that or run up with the gang fr... read more

My girls and I decided to have drinks at this place on Friday and the host was so rude. 1st we waited in line for 15 minutes even though there were tables available outside and towards the entrance. Before seating us the host gave a 3 minute lecture about "rules" and then as we ordered drinks, I asked what kind of tequila they used in the pitcher. The host replied with an attitude "we make the tequila in house, infused with mango," and then asked "is there a problem?" All he needed to say was that it's our low level Well- Tequila (from the plastic bottle). Then he walked away without finishing our order. I am a foodie and love trying new bars and restaurants but this was bad service. read more

It's always a good time at Hello Stranger! When my friends and I want to dance, but don't want to travel to San Francisco or San Jose, Hello Stranger is always a safe bet. It's mainly a bar and has a small dance floor in the back. They play hip-hop music that you can really get low to and know how to set the vibes. My only qualm is that since it's a small venue, it can get packed quickly, which can be annoying as you need space to dance. When it gets too hot you hang out at the chairs out front for a breather. read more

Favorite club in Oakland by far! Maybe even the best club in the Bay Area. Always a good time, good vibes, great DJs and the bar staff here is top notch! The cocktails here are bomb too! I like the "Smooth Operator" with Rum, coffee and coconut. read more

Pre pandemic I visited hello stranger often .. this was my first time coming through post pandemic and I honestly don't think ill ever be back Staff were incredibly rude and condescending to the point one of the members of our party began to feel uncomfortable so we left ... the staff insisted on making condescending comments when we were literally trying to spend money and buy food and several rounds of drinks.. I think they were upset Because we wouldn't leave one single card on tab.. we were a group of 10 no one wants to do that.   They didn't want folks to individually pay for their drinks.. Then when I did buy a round of drinks I realized the bartender OVERCHARGED my account..the ironic way it was brought to my attention was I went to the atm machine to pull out cash just so that I could tip in cash the rest of the evening.. while checking my account I realized that what was charged did not match what I signed for 15 minutes prior.. Its just so ironic staff began the evening with their sad ass covid story about how they were struggling and just reopened.. my friends and I came to celebrate and money was not an issue everyone 10+ adults were more than willing to patronize this establishment.. by buying precooked kingston 11 food Nd over priced drinks..their loss not ours needless to say I kept my cash for the night and didn't buy anything else because I probably would have fought them if they kept being rude and I kept drinking so a win win But they do have outdoor seating, mask weren't enforced and there is security in the front read more

Such a great place for the community, the bartender El is the absolute best. Please ask for El, amazing!

My friends and I were at Somar but they were playing 70s music which we weren't really into, so then we decided to head to Layover, but otw there we ran into some people who suggested we go to Hello Stranger, I have never been to Hello Stranger before, and I was so glad we went!! It is a pretty new spot, and the lighting / interior design is fantastic. There is also a small lounge area in the very back which is more private and where you can talk. They played a good mix of hip hop and R&B. They also have a fun selection of cocktails and other drinks. Gets really crowded and there is a long line out the door on weekend nights. Not too sure if there is a cover or not. The crowd was really respectful and nice, something you don't get in the city or in san jose. read more

4-28-2019...5:30p.m. Went here onna Sunday evening to meet D.J. MIND MOTION... This place was packed and jumping from the moment I walked in. I've been wanting to stop by Hello Stranger since meeting Summer a few months ago... Tonight I had the opportunity to meet her husband the inventor of a tasty drink made to pay homage to Oakland's very own Too Short called "What's My Favorite Word?" Hello Stranger has guest Dee Jay's always... Good people & Kool vibez here ya diigg!!! read more

Hello Stranger - Hello Stranger owner...Kool peoples ya diigg - Bars Near Me - Oakland, California

One of the few bars I look forward to going to when the weekend hits. There's always a DJ every night and the bar itself has a fantastic crew. read more

Hello Stranger is an amazing place to check out if you have a dancing itch that needs to be scratched, or if you just want to listen to good music and experience good vibes. They're open every day of the week until 2am, which is extremely rare. Motown Mondays are reserved for all the classic jams. On Tuesdays, Sean G is killin it on the 1s and 2s, so it's the perfect taco Tuesday after party. I don't typically go out on Wednesdays, so I can't comment. The rest of the week (including Sundays) is also a lot of fun if you like hip hop, r&b, and afrobeats. All of the bartenders are really cool and make some great drinks! Definitely try the Frozay and/or Smooth Operator. 10/10 would recommend! I mean it's always poppin.... What more could you want?? read more

This place is awesome! No TV's hanging around as a distraction from all the wonder smiles and laughter. Stiff drinks that are poured to perfection by the bartenders and everyone is polite. This place is usually clean until the freaks at night come out. Great place for a date or an outting with friends. read more

The drinks here are amazing! Rodeo disco is probably my go to every time I stop by. The bartenders are super friendly and get shit done when there's people filling up the bar ordering drinks. When they first open doors it's very chill but as time passes and more people come in it's definitely turns into one big party! Every time someone visits me I always bring them here to show them what Hello Stranger has to offer. read more

Hello Stranger successfully created a Covid Safe bar. I honestly have never been to this bar before ‍ there has always been a long line on first fridays and I would just watch the crowds from Dogwoods across the street. However... This bar has quite the unique perks. The Covid-free bar has created a bar menu that requires you to order one of the three food options in order to get a table. Essentially, get something slow cooked in an instant pot and put over some rice. Half or whole - about $6-$13. Then order your drink. The liquor is worth it. The dj plays decent music. You won't be shaking yo tail in this bar. Hello stranger reworked its vibe to be a lounge. At least for now. read more

This is an early 20s top 40 club with bottle service. That's great if that's what you want but just want to make that clear for others. edit: Seems like it depends on the night. Motown Monday is a great thing to keep alive. read more

The only club/bar in the Bay with some of the best rap/hip hop music and amazing staff (despite the other reviews). As a woman, I have always felt safe while I've been here and treated kindly by the staff (shoutout to Josh and Carlos!) Also, the bartenders are super fun and genuinely want customers to have a good time. If you're looking to have a guaranteed fun night out in Oakland, then you should check out Hello Stranger! read more

Hello Stranger is LIT AF! Great place to dance, vibe, celebrate an occasion, and all with amazing people. From the security, inside bar staff, and yes even all the Strangers this establishment is a 10/10! read more

#1 Bar/Lounge in Oakland by far! Good DJ's better cocktails! Exceptional customer service! Girl with blue hair makes best drinks! read more

came in last wednesday with my girlfriends as a late galentines celebration. ry was the main bartender that night and she went above and beyond for me and my girls (since we just turned 21). she recommended the rodeo disco WHICH WAS AMAZING and then we finished with margaritas. ry was very patient with me when i was curious about certain drinks and im so glad she recommended a variety of drinks based on my preferences. awesome gal! me and my girls LOVE ry!!!! read more

The main reason I'm giving this bar a 5 star review is THE BARTENDERS! ElKhalid is the best! He rings the bell and gives all his customers shout outs on the mic when he can! Other bartenders hype up the party on the bar and the Bartender named Manifair is super cool! Great spot, great security and awesome djs as well. The management cool too! read more

First timer. I thought it was cute set up. The loft area is definitely great for small get togethers/party.

Depressing. Charges cover even when the bar is empty, drinks are expensive and not very good. Mediocre at best.

Chill vibe - stellar service The crowd ranges from early 20-30. If you're a young urban professional, then this will be your favorite watering hole. read more

See all

***Review strictly for the naughty or nice Christmas pop up*** Naughty or nice - everything not right ? I'll give this place a pass for the weird aura staff gave off - it is Christmas and people can be .. off... on the holidays. Well I like the idea of pop-ups and supporting innovative entrepreneurs. I hope the host lounge survives in this somewhat lukewarm part of broadway off 19th street: Felt awkward walking through the hello lounge with 2 guests and having to tell them - I'm really here For the temporary Christmas pop up and not the ACTUAL bar. **Side note - I'll def return to try some of the hello bar cocktails. ** With that being said, here's the report card for NAUGHTY OR NICE: Cleanliness: A - N'er a speck of dust or bug in sight. Super clean floors weren't sticky Decor: B+ - limited space but festive. Came with a stripper pole, red lounge sofas, multicolored tree and candy cane lights and a cute bar - love they played the Netflix "crackling fire" series. Straight genius. Had no idea. Lol Drinks : C - pretty basic and expensive cocktails - You're basically paying for the themed name - Highlight = is the whisky hot chocolate : comes in a pint sized sampler cup (boooo) BUT it was a decent hit chocolate blend, sweet, with a hefty alcohol pour - Avoid the Back Door Santa cocktail / gross / reminds me of cough syrup Cost: C- - spent $28 on 2 drinks , one of which was hit chocolate. You do the math Friendliness: C- - Shoutout to the swines guy dressed like Santa/ def festive - Booo to his partner some weird woman with a Pixie hair cut. She just stared when I asked for recommendations and made us feel awkward / uncomfortable like intruders . Looked affronted when my bf took the square tablet to sigh. His name - was he not supposed to pay. Idk just off and weird and not hospitable - Also , more staff present enjoying themselves and drinking than actual guests Overall, my hunny was slightly upset I dragged him to this random spot , with 2 guests and "off" staff and basic overpriced drinks. Im always down to support temporary sites but this left much to be deserved. read more

See all

Love this place ! We had the top all to ourselves for Super Bowl and it did not disappoint. Everyone there was awesome . Will absolutely be back. read more

Arrived 1.5 hrs before closing and paid $20 only to turn around and leave 5 mins later. Should have peeked in because I don't think there is anyway this place was at their max capacity...it was BEYOND. So crowded everyone was squeezed in like sardines. Like being in a mosh pit, smashed up against strangers, hot sweaty, people just standing around looking hard. The bouncers & money taker should have been denying entry. We tried for a refund it was so ridiculous, they wouldn't give one. Getting to the bar for a drink? Forget about it. We noticed there was an upstairs, asked the guy standing on the steps with his arms crossed what the deal was, he said vip $100. We went on our merry way and won't be returning. read more

Amazing night! Got there at 8pm and Manny (bartender was awesome)! Then to end the night Miguel and Brit (security guards) were hilarious as they saved us from an adventure of a night. Great place, great music, great staff. read more

The Best Bar in the Bay. No Doubt about it. Bottle service in the mezzanine is the way to go.

I love coming to this bar. The security guards are always professional and very polite. The bar tenders are always nice and gives service with a smile and fast. Drinks are always on point and the music is good. I like the mixture of different genres. I would definitely recommend this place if you are looking for good drinks and good environment. It's also centrally located and the lines are never too long. read more