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    Mad Oak

    4.1 (816 reviews)
    ModerateBars
    Closed 4:00 pm - 2:00 am (Next day)
    Updated 2 months ago

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    MAD OAK ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Hipster
    Casual
    Trendy
    Moderate noise

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    Recommended Reviews - Mad Oak

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    Reviews With Photos

    Espresso Martini, Disaronno & pineapple, Date Night
    Kendra F.

    This isn't my go-to bar, but it is an old faithful. I've been here a number of times over the years, especially when I lived in downtown Oakland. It's an Indoor/outdoor bar with security who checks your ID at the front right before the large amount of picnic table type seating outside. There's a Photo Booth towards the back and an upstairs outside area as well. It's cold now, but there is plenty of seating. My friend and I opted to sit indoors. Normally they keep the doors open, but now that it's bone chilling cold, the doors were closed. My friend ordered an espresso martini. It wasn't my fave, but the way I like it apparently isn't original. I prefer mine with Bailey's to soften the taste of the coffee. Personal preference. I ordered Date Night which has Hennessy VS I believe and some other delicious flavors. Dangerous! The pink sugared rim and the delicate flavor of this drink is why I stopped after 2. It's too good, kind of like how Long Islands used to be before that one time in college where I put my eyeshadow on and wasn't sure if I had put eyeshadow on the other eye in spite of being in front of a mirror. I hope that paints the picture. I saw Disaronno on the shelf and wanted it with pineapple. The taste was good and familiar, but next time I'll ask for an extra glass of ice. This one should be served really cold, and the cup was already filled and there was already a lot of ice, but this drink itself takes a bit to get really cold how I'd prefer it. Oh, and they have food! We split their loaded fries and chicken wings. The fries should have an option to add meat. I didn't see it on the menu so I didn't ask, but just a suggestion.

    Christina G.

    Great atmosphere with lots of beer choices and great cocktails. Servers are friendly and fun.

    Dianna H.

    I've walked by this spot so many times and it always looks hopping! Finally had a chance to check it out when my friend and I stopped by for a post work catch up. We came on Thursday evening around 5 pm and it was pretty empty, though it got busier later. There's plenty of seating - patio, indoors, upstairs patio. We decided to sit in their patio as it was a nice and warm day out. They offer food and drink happy hour specials Tue-Fri 4-6 pm. I got the hibiscus lemonade, an order of seasoned fries to share, and the Mad Dog which was happy hour food special for Thursday. All the food was ready quickly. You have to pick it up yourself inside once the buzzer goes off. I loved the hibiscus lemonade! Super refreshing and was something different from the standard lemonade. The food itself was average. Hot dog's a hot dog, and same for fries. I was actually disappointed by the fries as they were "seasoned" but still tasted super bland. There was zero salt on them. The portions were HUGE for the fries though. Next time I'll remember to get just a half order, that would have been plenty for the two of us to share.

    menu
    Tomoko S.

    Came here Tues night with a group of 5 for trivia night! Friendly atmosphere, outdoor communal bench seating, well stocked bar, and decent food. Missed the happy hour, which seemed like a good deal. Was worried about parking, but was able to find street parking nearby (also noticed a lot across the street.) Trivia was 3 rounds: R1 general knowledge, R2 movie quotes (I guess it's usually music, but 4th Tues of the month is movies...) R3 podcast theme bc it was national podcast day (Who knew that was a thing?) All in all a fun night-Will def be back!

    Mushroom burger
    Liz S.

    I've walked by this bar so many times but never really was intrigued to go in as it's hidden but finally stopped by with coworkers after work and was pleasantly impressed. They have a happy hour with great food deals $2.50 fries you can't beat that! I loved the outdoor space it was very chill but also offer indoor seating. They even have an upstairs outdoor space. I would definitely be back to try more drinks and food. Friends enjoyed the mushroom burger and taco if looking for veggie options.

    Old fashioned
    Jenny H.

    I got espresso martinis, old fashioned, and the tequila soda. Espresso martinis are not strong at all so definitely get that if you don't like alcohol at all. Old fashioned is definitely the way to go if you need something strong. Tequila sodas are pretty good too. If you want food, order before 10pm because I think the kitchen closes at 10? I might be wrong but you can ask the bartender. One of the bartenders kept getting distracted by other customers who came after us and he started serving them drinks instead even though he started to take our order first. He started taking our order and then turned to the new folks and served them a shot, took a shot with one of them, and talked with him for a little over a minute before turning back to us. It was honestly frustrating because we were waiting for a while. If it weren't for this part of our experience, I'd honestly give this place five stars! The other bartenders were women and were wonderful. They took our orders and made our drinks very efficiently. Security was doing his best ensuring customers are safe and sound. One of the batenders checked on a girl in the bathroom which I appreciate deeply.

    Bar
    Ginger D.

    What an adorable bar/restaurant in downtown Oakland! Street parking and a parking garage very close! This bar gives upscale homey.. day party vibes!!! They have an upstairs patio and lots of outdoor seating downstairs. Downstairs is really cool because the bar can either be open or closed depending on the weather! I had the strawberry margarita that was made with strawberry redbull and tequila! It had a really good tajin rim! I also tried the loaded fries and chicken tenders. (Sorry didn't get pics of those). You order everything at the bar and then you get a buzzer for food and go pick it up at the food pick up area! They were playing good music and the atmosphere was good. Definitely recommend coming here!

    Sauces with the fries
    Molly L.

    We came here on a week night and the place was pretty packed. We went to the counter and ordered our drinks and food. Once the food was ready, we went to pick up the food at a separate part of the venue once our buzzer rang. The drinks we had were good. But the food was just okay. My partner said the burger did not have much flavor, and I can say the same thing about the chicken sandwich. However, the chicken sandwich had a bunch of jalapeños in it, which was not listed on the menu. We were surprised that the fries were soggy as well and not crispy (this is surprising for crinkle cut fries). Overall, the ambiance of this venue is nice -- there is both outside and inside seating, and the lighting is more dim.

    Birria quesadilla
    Maggie W.

    Had a few extra hours in Oakland before going to the airport and this is a great spot to go to. This is only 10 minutes from the airport. Came here on a Sunday to watch a few football games and quickly realized the bar does not have the NFL Sunday ticket so only a few games that were on local TV were available to be watched. Ended up having the garlic Parmesan fries which had entirely too much garlic and not enough Parmesan. I will say that the birria quesadilla was fantastic and I would come back just for that alone. Fantastic place to watch sports and have a quick bite to eat. They were having a special event on their second floor rooftop bar later that day, which I thought was a great addition. Would absolutely come back here when in Oakland.

    Doubled up
    Nelly R.

    From Oakland and my first time stepping into Mad Oak! Really Nell?! Anywho The bartender were hella cool (she said Hello when I sat down) and the drinks were This place served finger food and the kitchen closes at midnight. I did not try the food but I will next time. From the outside looking in, if you are looking for slap (Lit rap music or R&B vibes) you would not go inside. I listen to and love all music. I'm open minded so I went inside. Also, this place looking like a loft. There are two side to this lounge/bar. Outside w/a bar upstairs & they played pop music and inside is rap (with a loft, industrial vibe). The vibe setting is very chill (which fits my personality). It gives you and the homies, the home girls or with your boo thang to dance, talk and just chill. Be in your own zone at this place for sure. The bar has a natural feel to it (come as you are). Shake a hand meet a friend and just chill. There is no DJ. The bartender play music on the iPad (I LOVE THAT BTW). Would I go back? Sure, why not.

    Brianna R.

    stopped by after the Oakland museum and definitely coming again! great service and happy hour on weekdays 4-6pm. food was tasty and came out pretty quick, and a photo booth for those who love them like me :)

    Jo Ann D.

    We've been coming to Mad Oak this football season because they open on sundays for the games! It's always a nice vibe. The bartender is always super friendly and nice! I forget his name but the one with the pony tail is great! Quick and personable. They have lots of tvs inside, outside and upstairs. There's also fun activities like a Photobooth and a basketball arcade. I'm a big fan of the food too. The Brussels always turn out perfect and you can't go wrong with their garlic fries. Will keep returning for the games! Go niners!

    Don't know his name but he's by far the best.
    Azteca L.

    We needed a pit stop before going to check out the 8pm showing of the Delores play. We arrived at 7 and placed was already busy. Bouncer checked ID and as we are strolling We look around and we are the only middle aged folks here. No sweat we just came for a drink, quick bite and we out. We were lucky to find 2 bar stools unoccupied in the corner near the slushie machine. We waited about 5 minutes when the awesomeness hip bartender came and truly apologized for the delay. He took our order, repeated back to us and made sure we were good. I didnt catch his name as the place was pretty busy but did include a pic. This is what customer service and hospitality is.

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    12 days ago

    Carlee is a phenomal star. Honestly was shook at the amount of people but super grateful for the consideration! Thanks, Mad Oak!

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    3 months ago

    The food is good and the space is nice (indoor and out). Just don't forget your drivers license; required for entry.

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    Page 1 of 21

    Ask the Community - Mad Oak

    Do you have a cake fee? Would like to bring a cake to celebrate a friend's birthday. Thanks in advance for your help!

    Hi. No fee. You are welcome to bring in a cake.

    Outdoor seating , dog friendly?

    Yes! We love well behaved dogs :)

    Is the upstairs seating wheelchair accessible? Is it typically open on Tuesdays?

    I don't recall an elevator up to the upstairs but I can't say for certain. In my experience, it is open on Tuesdays just like every day. According to their website happy hour is Tuesday-Friday from 4-6. This is their email address if you want to ask… Read more

    Do you guys have cornhole?

    Yes. But if it gets too crowded we don't put it out.

    What will be the vendor/food be on Sunday, January 14?

    We’ve gone in house for food and have a menu of bar bites from wings, street tacos, and fries to fried chicken or shroom Philly sandwiches and arugula salad and more...

    Do they allow kids?

    Sorry, but no, 21+ only.

    What are the non-alcoholic options to drink?

    Non-alcoholic cocktails and N/A beer

    Do they serve food outside on Sunday nights? How late?

    Food until 9

    Is this place requiring proof of vax cards at the door before entry? The voicemail greeting states so.

    No. Just ID.

    Are kids allowed Asking for a friend?

    No one under 21 allowed. Coworker tried bringing his baby and was denied entry.

    What food vendor do you guys have there now?

    We were there this past weekend and they had "Ibexico"

    Are vaccine cards required?

    Yes as of 2/13

    Will they be showing Argentina-Brazil on 7/10/21 (Copa America Final)?

    Generally we will play major sporting events. But we do not play sound for any games unless it is a local team in the finals (sometimes playoffs)

    Is there any music dj?

    Not at the moment. The playlist over loudspeakers is typically good.

    What will your holiday hours and days be?

    We will have Holiday hours posted on our website

    Are you allowed to bring outside food?

    We have a rotating pop-up kitchen, so we do not allow outside food.

    Will you be showing the NBA playoffs outdoor on Friday?

    Will you be airing the niners game outdoors tomorrow?

    Are there TVs outdoor to watch sports?

    Yes, but we do not play the TV audio

    Is there a lot of parking?

    There is a lot of street parking around but it does fill up quickly. Lake Merritt Bart station is a few blocks away.

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    Tallboy

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    2.2 miTemescal, North Oakland
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    This place is great! The drinks are delicious and very affordable. Service can be a little slow at…read moretimes but that's completely understandable since it's usually packed. Making drinks for a crowd takes time and the staff always does their best. The people who come here are super friendly which adds to the welcoming, cozy vibe of the place. It's the kind of spot where you instantly feel comfortable. If you love a good martini this is definitely a place you should check out.

    I'll give it to them, Tallboy is a solid concept with their "tinis & weenies". However, a clever…read moreconcept can carry a place so far. Customer service is a close second to concept. Tallboy's martini menu is well-executed. While I didn't personally try one of the slushies, a friend ordered the espresso martini version and gave it a solid thumbs-up. Unfortunately, the experience falls apart when it comes to food and service. Waiting 30+ minutes for two hot dogs (after paying) is hard to justify. When I checked in with a server, she was curt and dismissive. She was quick to explain there was only one person in the kitchen, with no effort to offer a solution, timeline, or even basic courtesy. I understand staffing issues happen. However, customer service is a close second to concept. How an issue is communicated and addressed is what separates good service from bad. What's more frustrating is that these aren't customer problems to absorb. If the kitchen is understaffed, if tables aren't being cleared in a timely manner at a seat-yourself spot, those are management problems. Guests should not have to choose to leave without the food we paid for. There's a lot of competition out there, and concepts alone aren't enough to bring people back. I genuinely wanted that hot dog. That's probably the most disappointing part of the whole experience. Great drinks, solid ambiance, but the service needs serious attention.

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    Tallboy - The bat and the awesome bartender!

    The bat and the awesome bartender!

    Tallboy - Cheese in the trap

    Cheese in the trap

    Tallboy - Banana hammock

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    4.0(760 reviews)
    1.8 miPiedmont Ave, North Oakland
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    We have been going to Catos for years and years. It is our place for lunch and to hash out family…read moreand work stuff over a pint of beer! Staff is friendly and efficient and the food has always been good!!! I think they have a new chef - the food in the last month or so is really good! Today Husband had sticky ribs - sauce with Asian flavors and the meat tender but not dry!! SO yummy!! I had steak frites - a little on the boring side, but cooked perfectly! (the dog loved loved loved the left over steak) Here is the main reason I am writing this review. A friend of mine has been battling a health issue for several months and ended up back at Kaiser Hospital for 10 days. If you have ever had a stay Kaiser Hospital - the food is atrocious on a good day. So my friends' family brought her food during her stay. This time all from Catos!! The family lives in the east bay and are not regulars to our Piecmont Ave neighborhood. They loved the food - worth traveling for!! One of her daughters said she would come to Oakland just for Catos burgers - Mac and Cheese - Obama sandwiches and pizza!! My friend is home and healing well - Good job Catos - I am so happy you are part of our comunity!!

    It was OK. Nothing spectacular. Grabbed lunch solo. Tried the 2 piece pizza for $8. Price was…read moreright. Pizza looked delicious..had little flavor. Like even with the parmesean added, it still waa pretty bland for a slice a pizza. Oddly not even the pepperoni had much flavor. Customer service was OK. The bar itself is a bit dark, but clearly this is a cool neighborhood spot to grab a drink.

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    Cato's Ale House
    Cato's Ale House - Biweekly tasty hangout w/ the bestie

    Biweekly tasty hangout w/ the bestie

    Cato's Ale House - Exterior

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    Exterior

    Mad Oak - bars - Updated May 2026

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