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    The Monk's Kettle

    3.9 (2.4k reviews)
    ModerateBars, Gastropubs
    Open 11:30 am - 12:00 AM (Next day)

    Order The Monk's Kettle Takeout or Delivery

    The Monk's Kettle Photos

    Business Info

    THE MONK'S KETTLE ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Moderate noise
    Hipster
    Outdoor seating
    Dogs allowed

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    Steak Frites
    Mikaela S.

    Great food and ambiance at Monk's Kettle. We walked in on Saturday for lunch and sat at the bar. Their covered back patio is also a good option for a dinner. We got the steak frites and breakfast sandwich. Their steak frites were amazing, great sauce and well seasoned fries and the breakfast sandwich was very unique with lamb meat. The food came out pretty fast and they also have a vast beer option to pair with any dishes. I'll be coming back to try the burger sometime soon!

    Monk's Burger
    Jose Manuel C.

    Showed up Saturday night, apparently you need reservations for busy nights( I guess I'm lucky). Mac and cheese was solid, burger was juicy. Steak frites looked ok my Mrs had that. Her garlic fries looked better than my regular fries. They have 20 different beers available, but I gave that up til Easter. Ima say 4.8/5. Great place despite not being able to describe how formal or casual it is.

    Bricked Chicken Sandwich
    Shannon P.

    Great service, yummy food, and dog friendly back patio! Came for lunch on a Sunday and sat down almost immediately. Cute ambiance for families. Quick service and friendly staff. Pork rinds (chips & dip) were delicious and the guacamole was extra limey which I loved. Butternut squash soup was delicious and cozy. Smash-burger was great. If you are starving get 2 patties tho. 1 was good for me because of the soup but if i hadn't gotten it I would have wanted two patties. Would recommend if you are in Rockridge!

    Pretzel Rolls, kids steak frites, regular steak frites with garlic fries on the side, and Bricked Chicken Sandwich
    Veronica L.

    Came here for the first time with two kiddos and the husband. Ordered steak for myself and the kids and we weren't given steak knives to cut with. Asked for an extra side of ranch with the steak knives and our server (Sarah H?) was a little snarky about bringing the knife without the ranch when I asked about it (kids don't like sharing sauces). Said she had the knives right there and hasn't been to the kitchen yet. I also saw her check in with other tables around us if everything was okay and she skipped us. As another reviewer said, this place calculated tip based on the total taxed amount which is not cool. The beer selection is good here and I like that you can get a 5oz kids meal with steak but not sure about the snarky service and tip calculating practice. Server also said the kids meal steak couldn't be done except well done ... luckily they brought out both steaks medium rare. The chicken sandwich was good - nice side salad. Requested the steak frites order to have the fries come on the side because another reviewer said it's better this way and am glad I ordered them on the side so the fries weren't as soggy. The pretzel rolls with cheese and mustard and the beets were probably my favorite. Bill came out to $110 before tip.

    Menu and table
    Matty E.

    Solid gastro pub in the cozy Rockridge neighborhood. Menu is small, but the signature Steak Frites was an easy choice (make sure to order your fries extra crispy -- the dish is JUICY!). Ordered the charred octopus on the recommendation of the waitress, and it was an excellent suggestion. The octopus was tender and full of flavor. The waitstaff was attentive, if a bit overeager, but it's awesome to have a place like this open late. I'm sure their burger or chicken sandwich would be perfect after a night out.

    Veggie Curry with egg
    Kevin H.

    A hesitant five stars from me. The good: Food was well plated and tasty. Despite being full, it did not feel crowded. If you're looking for fine dining with both tables and bar it brought that and felt both classy and casual. The bad: Pricy enough that I would not go here on a 'regular' night but not really nice enough to be an extra night out. Staff didn't refill our water and the bill did that suggested 20% tip thing when we were a small party of three. 20 minute wait for a table. Despite that^^ I think it earns its five and a recommendation.

    Incredible Belgian Strong Dark called Abt 12
    Karina G.

    While I wasn't particularly impressed with the food here, I was blown away by the beer menu. I took an embarrassingly long time to decide on a beer, but when I finally did, it did not disappoint. Got a Belgian Dark Strong called Abt 12 and loved it. They have a huge and diverse menu, something for everyone. Also, the server and hostess (who maybe was the owner) were beyond welcoming and friendly, making for a wonderful evening.

    On tap beer menu
    Patty P.

    Went to Rockridge for some walking around and browsing/shopping but needed a snack and didn't realize The Monk's Kettle was now in Oakland. I have been to the San Francisco location and remembered they had a great beer selection, but was doubly excited for the food! I got a Vienna lager from Urban Roots and we shared the burger (which you could tweak to be an impossible burger) and it came with fries, soup, or Kale salad. We had it with the potato leek and all of it was delicious. The space was styled nicely and they have a large outdoor space in the back. Service was quick and helpful, and we were checked in with often for more water, if we wanted anything else, and for the check. Would recommend, especially if you love beer!

    Topher C.

    We walked past this place as they were freshly painting the establishment's sign. It's a relatively new establishment, but not a new business. We took a quick peek at the menu and decided that we'd have to come back. We were in the mood for breakfast/brunch, and the (current) menu is pretty solidly in the lunch and dinner neck of the woods. The following week we decided to check it out for dinner. Reservations (currently via OpenTable) are highly recommended, but we were fortunate enough that the hostess was able to accomodate us at the bar even as walk-ins. This place is one of the most home-y and welcoming establishments we've seen in years. Every single person we encountered working there - from the busser to the owner - were absolutely pleasant and joyful. Service was fabulous, and the food was tasty. The menu is meant to be (and is!) delicious, but simple and unpretentious. It was so good on so many levels that we came back for lunch the next day. Again, it would have been lovely if they offered more brunch-like offerings (and could even have some strong competition for some of the breakfast places nearby), but we ended up with a veggie burger and the veggie sandwich. This time we sat outside on the back patio, which was woody and cozy, and again, we felt like we were among friends. This is our new favourite neighborhood haunt, and we'll be back - again and again. Oh, word to the wise - if you order the pretzel roll(s), do yourself a favor, and get two. It's a better deal, and if you only get one, it'll be gone before you know it, and you'll be jonesing for a second.

    Salad Niçoise
    Mari H.

    So excited they are open in Rockridge. I'm not sure but I don't recall the menu in SF being so good! I waffled between all the salads, even considering a sandwich! I rarely do a sandwich. But everything looks good. The three of us settled for two Salad Niçoise and a Smash burger. Grabbed a few beers and shared some hop fries. Didn't get a burger review but the salad was excellent. The fish pieces were generous and dressing very good! The fries don't need extra salt, love that! We sat in the back heated and covered patio. There's a lot more seating than the front suggests. There's two bathrooms. The left one is tiny, just. FYI. Excited to go back for the mushroom toast, Caesar and Greek salads and of course, their delicious beer selections!

    Great burger!

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    Business owner information

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    4 months ago

    Good place to meet for a pint in the late afternoon. We had a few snacks as well. The back room was dark and cozy. I'd go back.

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    Love this place, great food, great service, and great drinks! Best lamb shank over ever had!!! Very cool vibe too.

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    Page 1 of 60

    The Monk's Kettle Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - The Monk's Kettle

    Does the new Oakland location have highchairs or child booster seats available?

    Any low sodium options for someone with high blood pressure?

    Hi Maddie The kale and chicken salads do not contain any salt (however, they do contain braggs liquid aminos and maggi's sauce respectively).… Read more

    Any safe Parking? Thanks

    Two blocks from BART, no parking needed!

    Where is the best parking nearby?

    There's a public lot on 16th & Hoff. It's one block before mission.

    Any vegetarian burger options? or sandwiches?

    All of our burgers and sandwiches can be made with an Impossible patty. And the veggie grilled cheese is already vegetarian on its own. Hope that helps!

    Are there outdoor heaters for the parklet and patio?

    Yes indeed!

    Is the restaurant dog friendly?

    Sorry for the delay! But yes, we're a dog friendly restaurant.

    Are you guys doing beer to go?

    We sure are! Go to our Online Order page on our website. We have a larger list available for pickup, and if you order delivery from Caviar or GrubHub, we have a smaller… Read more

    Is this place good for groups for 13?

    Unfortunately not. Unless the weather is nicer, and we have our sidewalk seating set up, then there's just no way for a group of 13 to fit comfortably together inside the restaurant. We're just a very small place.… Read more

    Do you have TVs that will play Monday night football?

    We do indeed! We only have one TV -- but its a decent size and will certainly be playing the game this evening.

    What is your wait time thanks?

    sorry for the delay in getting back to you! you can always check our wait time by connecting with our Yelp Waitlist app. you should be able to find it from our yelp page.… Read more

    A few years ago I visited your bar and ordered a dark beer that tasted like chocolate drink. I believe it was imported from Germany. I cannot remember the name, but I was hoping you still have it. If not, do you have something similar?

    Hard to know for sure what it was then. But we always have options that are similar. Closest thing right now is Nitro Merlin from Firestone Walker. Enjoy!

    Will you be open on New Years Day?

    Hi Dalia, We will definitely be open New Year's Day! Normal hours, open at noon. Hope to see you… Read more

    I have been trying to call them for take out orders for several weeks but no one answers the phone. Are they closed for good?

    We are open, you can also try the uber, caviar, and yelp apps for ordering food

    View All 15 Questions

    51 & Tel - Golden Girl: Vodka w/ lemongrass, hay liqueur, aloe, lemon, orange ($16) + Fuego: Tequila w/ mezcal, watermelon, italicus, habanero ($15)

    51 & Tel

    4.5(35 reviews)
    0.7 miTemescal, North Oakland, Rockridge

    This is a very cozy and intimate space. My friend and I ventured into 51 & Tel while waiting on our…read morereservation next door at Pizzaiolo. We only stayed for about 15 mins, but we had a wonderful time. The bartender Danny was very hospitable and made me a very yummy tasting mocktail called Like The Sun that had Aplos Arise, Lyre's Italian Orange, passionfruit, lime. He said that they had an event going on that night and suggested that we try to attend if we had time. We did not attend the event, however I can only imagine that the event was successful. They have a patio, great lighting, a dj booth, and great drinks. I also found out that the bar is in relation to Asmara which is the Ethiopian restaurant next door. Asmara has been there for 40 years. Please check this bar out if you're in the Temescal region. Update: I stopped in during Happy Hour and had a slushie cocktail called Kiwi To My Heart. It was delicious. I enjoyed the patio area this time around with the nice weather.

    Walking into 51 & Tel, the vibe was vibin'…read more It's hip and trendy with a cute dog-friendly patio. Chill, diverse crowd that Frisco has lost. Great 90s R&B and Hip Hop playlist. And, the intoxicating smell from Sonny's BBQ had me salivating. Opening in September 2024, 51 & Tel is a cocktail bar from the sons of Asmara (Ethiopian resto) next door. I found 51 & Tel on Yelp while looking for a pre-dinner drank place. I'm not familiar with the bar scene in The Town but I'm surprised they have so little reviews. M E N U Craft signature cocktails are $14-$17. Beer and shot for $10. Mocktails are $13. HH specials on Friday, 5 pm - 7 pm. Rotating food pop-ups from other local businesses (the plates from Sonny's BBQ looked bomb but were going to dinner afterwards). Ethiopian food from Asmara next door is also available. CC's only. No cash accepted. D R I N K S * Golden Girl: Vodka w/ lemongrass, hay liqueur, aloe, lemon, orange, oregano ($16) Refreshing and stiff with citrusy flavors, not too sweet. Fav of the two cocktails I tried. I think Blanche would approve. * Fuego: Tequila w/ mezcal, watermelon, italicus, habanero, citrus, mint ($15) Nice twist on a margarita, the sweetness of the watermelon balances the kick from habanero. * Fortaleza Blanco on the rock ($18) I was happy to see them carry my go-to tequila since there's a significant shortage. S E R V I C E Welcoming, friendly bartenders. A M B I A N C E Gorgeous murals inside and out in the patio with a mix of high tops and regular tables. There's TVs inside for watching the game. Clean restrooms. P A R K I N G Metered street parking. We took a risk and parked at the plaza across the street. Overall, we enjoyed our time at 51 & Tel and if I lived closer, this would be my weekly go-to!

    Photos
    51 & Tel - People love to come and have a great cocktail  after or  before dinner.

    People love to come and have a great cocktail after or before dinner.

    51 & Tel
    51 & Tel - Frozen Halloween cocktail!

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    Frozen Halloween cocktail!

    McNally's Irish Pub - Vodka tonic, Midori sour, and Black Russian.

    McNally's Irish Pub

    4.2(175 reviews)
    0.2 miNorth Oakland
    $$

    This is a great local bar with solid beer selection! I came with some friends for St. Patrick's day…read moreand they had a full Irish Band playing at different times throughout the night. Great vibes and friendly staff! Their back room is also a great spot to chill and watch a game. Will definitely come back to watch some Warriors games!

    McNally's It is our…read morelocal watering hole where everyone knows our name. Well, okay, everyone knows our greyhounds' names. A dog friendly place, McNally's is the perfect place to bring your furry best friends (and human ones). It is a mix of regular barflies and the occasional newbies. One time, an anti-dog lady came in with her date, ordered table martini service, took over our fireplace table, and no one was impressed. We started to come here more once they built the parklet during the pandemic. They also promoted their cocktails at this time. We would sit outside with dogs and friends and came to love the casual lowkey location. There is a large room in the back that we made the mistake of sitting in once. Great if you have a group, but cold and dorm community room feel vs the comfortable bar feel of the front area. There is also a backyard nook along the side of the building for smokers or those that want to watch dvds. They have darts, which i was surprised to see someone actually play once, a small pool table with a special name that escapes me, and a jukebox that you can pay for songs. We usually patronize in the earlier hours and Alfred is our bartender. He knows peoples' orders before they order it and lets us tend the fireplace on cold days. He has treats and water for the dogs. You can pay cash or credit card here which adds to the appeal over two other bars in the area that are cash only. There is one female and one male restroom on the back wall. The female one is always clean but the swinging door sticks. Don't make the mistake of waiting as you probably just have to push it in harder. We prefer the fireplace table if it's a cold day out (otherwise the corner booth in the parklet) as it's easy to park the dogs there, eat the burrito you brought in, absorb the fire rays, watch the games, and conversate with your friends in a circle. We usually have more friends than fit the table but we spread out around the nucleus. The corner table is also great if they have the overhead lamp turned off. Otherwise it's harsh in your eyeballs. There are several televisions so you can get a good view of whatever sports is on wherever you are sitting. Lots of stools and just a few regular chairs. They do have special events from time to time and you have to look out for flyers on their door or the occasional social media post. I am counting down the days to saint Patrick's day, which they do also on their countdown sign over the bar. Neighborhood parking is free or street parking is free after 6pm, all day Sunday and holidays. You can also park at the library around the corner, it's considered street parking. There are several eateries to take out food and bring in to McNally's. There's a trash can near the door or the main bins are on the side of the building. If you forgot a utensil, ask at the bar, they may have it for you. Food wise they only offer potato chips for purchase.

    Photos
    McNally's Irish Pub - Snacking

    Snacking

    McNally's Irish Pub - Dog corner

    Dog corner

    McNally's Irish Pub - Fireplace

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    Fireplace

    Cask Taproom

    Cask Taproom

    3.8(16 reviews)
    0.6 miRockridge, Elmwood

    We came in for a drink after our anniversary dinner in good spirits, but unfortunately it was hard…read moreto maintain a cheerful mood in this place. Perhaps it was because we don't fit the hipster prototype, but we got a lot of attitude, and the vibe was not welcoming nor pleasant. $47 for two drinks before tip. I still left a tip despite the lousy service. One and done and we were out of there, without a thank you or goodbye. Needless to say, won't be back, not much more to say.

    For starters the College Ave scene is well College Ave. IYKYK…read more We just finished our anniversary dinner down the street at Millennium (see review) and headed here for a drink since it was close and open. My partner was wearing strappy little heels, yes high heels, and really didn't feel like walking too far. Upon entering I knew we should have turned around and walked out but we didn't. The lady  behind the bar had a scowled gringed up face when we walked in. Like lady haven't you ever seen a hot girl in a dress and heels before???? We forgot you can't dress nice and smile in Bezerkeley. I ordered a Tequila Ocho with lime and my partner ordered a Lemon Drop and here we go again with attitude from behind the bar. She had to ask the dude if he could make one and she came back with yes. He popped in with can't do a sugar rim.  Andrea responded with she didn't want a sugar rim and make it less sweet. Eye rolls!!!! Later as we are sitting there enjoying such a lively and inviting space the bartender dude is talking to another customer about who orders a lemon drop without a sugar rim. Andrea let him know just moments before he couldn't do a sugar rim. SMH!!! Again, Bezerkeley. Hipster, self important, we are all so unique little snowflakes, we all look and act alike crowd. Yep, that's Bezerkeley. And the drinks were outrageously expensive. Two drinks and almost $50 before a very undeserved tip. The are lots of surcharges and extras tacked on to bills in the bay area. I think we just got the "hot girl in heels in a hipster frown bar" surcharge. A one and done never going back experience. Left and walked about 300 ft to Wood Tavern. Still on College Ave but at least over the city line and in Oakland which has its own set of problems.

    Photos
    Cask Taproom
    Cask Taproom - Henhouse nitro milk stout, 5.8%

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    Henhouse nitro milk stout, 5.8%

    Tallboy - Deli dog

    Tallboy

    4.4(172 reviews)
    1.0 miTemescal, North Oakland
    $$

    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.

    Photos
    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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    Banana hammock

    The Monk's Kettle - bars - Updated May 2026

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