Earlier this evening I received an email from Peri and Sean Gabriel, owners of the Pinot's Palette Alameda. They have been in business for about five years. The news was not a good one. It is with sadness to mention they are closing due to COVID 19. Peri is also one of my friends on FB. It has been a while since I attended a drawing session. Even though my paintings were okay looking, I still have fun. My Warriors basketball and thunder bolts painting was meh; however, when they had Marvin Gaye/Tammi Terrell singing "heaven must have sent your precious love...oh, oh, oh", I stopped painting and started singing and swaying along with that song. Hey, hey!! My fellow painters were laughing at me for trying to sound like Tammi Terrell. I wasn't even close, but they appreciated my love for some R&B old school music. I even had my GS Warriors gear on for that occasion. My painting of the cupcakes was slightly better. My husband took a photo of our daughter and me holding up our artwork. Ahhh...the memories of an evening of painting and people sipping wine have me grinning from ear to ear. How I will miss this place. I will be swinging by there this Saturday, June 6, to get one more look. They will be selling the paintings on display for $10 each; 4 paintings for $30. To Peri, Sean and staff: many thanks for all the wonderful times that I had in those drawing sessions. read more

Pinot's Palette Alameda - Paint & Sip Near Me - Alameda, California

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"Possibly the most unique business on the island." I had no idea this place existed. It's actually a combination bar and Art Studio. While you're painting you can come up to the bar and order a wine or beer. Keep in mind that you can only order drinks while the class is in session. I tried to sneak a beer before the class, but the office manager didn't fall for it. Oh well, I guess I will have to come back for a class. They have a wide variety of classes, a lot for beginners. So don't worry if you have haven't painted recently. They also provide aprons so you don't mess up your tuxedo. One of the more interesting events is a pet painting day.You bring a photo of your pet and then you paint a picture of Fido or Fluffy. If you have a group, you can actually rent out the facility. Unique place, unique environment, friendly staff. read more

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A beautiful variety of paintings you can choose to paint! A spacious venue and drinks to quench your thirst as your creative juices are flowing. We painted Vintage Santa on wood. I am definitely not a painter, but Pinot's Palette really helps you get your painting completed! Loved my finished product. read more

I recently bought the "Take Home Kit" with the video tutorial. I picked up the materials at the restaurant next door to their location. It was very easy and convenient. It was so fun! The best part is you can pause or rewind the video so you can go at your own pace. I had to buy another one! So I am waiting to go pick up the materials. I really hope enough people are doing this to help keep them open after all this craziness is over. read more

Pinot's Palette Alameda - Final product - Paint & Sip Near Me - Alameda, California

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They planned this for my birthday for me and a few close girlfriends. It was perfect since up till 1 hour before the session, I was still puking up last nights tequila. I think this is the perfect place for single men to go pick up some "woo girls". There were 3 birthday parties during the time I was there (not counting me because I kept my mouth shut). We were probably the most sedate group of ladies since we were all massively hungover ... so it turned out to be the perfect thing to do on a Sunday afternoon. The staff is very nice as are all the other patrons. It's fun to see the people who do this really regularly and the folks who are completely lost and then the folks who are secretly very artistically talented. Then there are the folks who can't follow directions, the ones who are behind and the ones who are moving onto the next thing before the instructor. We were all of these. It's a cute little canvas of a dancer that I made but since wall real estate at my house is at a premium, it holds a place of honor in my closet. I may try to sneak it into a girlfriend's house next time I'm over ... but she'll probably be sneaking hers into mine. read more

Good location, clean, and well organized. Plus it's always a bonus when there is free parking! This was a nice space to work with for a large group. You wont feel claustrophobic! We were greeted immediately at the door and had to provide ID at check in. I liked the convenience of the little bar area too. They also do assigned seating. Your assigned within your groups. Look for your name painted on the table :) Staff was friendly and out going. They were ready to assist you from technique to getting you more paints or wine. The area was clean, well lit and plenty of cubbies to place your personal items so you can focus on your wine and paints experience rather than your purse and jackets cluttered around you. I had that experience at my last paint party at a different location. I would definitely return to this location! read more

Pinot's Palette Alameda - Cute bar area - Paint & Sip Near Me - Alameda, California

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What an enjoyable evening. Great staff, good prices and a wonderful experience. They sell wine by the bottle to help keep overall costs down and make your painting even better!! It's a step by step painting experience and you go home with your masterpiece. We plan to go back again soon. read more

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One of thee best paint classes I have attended. Very organized, easy instruction and patient instructors. The process was flawless from online registration, a couple of email reminders, check in at time of painting, getting drinks and painting! I loved their use of: 1.) big screen with sample painting 2.) actual painting 3.) white board they use to update step by step and paint color mix I thought the use of chalk to sketch out your drawing was BRILLIANT!! Gave you the opportunity to edit before your actually paint it. The instructors were friendly and patient. They changed our waters, added paint and were so nice about it. The location is very artsy! Love all the colorful and beautiful paintings. Cute little paint spot with cubbies for you to put your personal belongings. And they have a bar for adult drinks. We had the bottomless mimosas for $15. Good deal. We will definitely be back!! With my besties and the hubby for a date night! read more

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Heard many things about wine and paint nights and finally got the chance to try it, but we came here Sunday afternoon and painted from 1 pm to 3 pm. Extremely fun experience and I even messed up in the beginning but it ended up looking nice afterwards. Extremely friendly and helpful staff which makes the whole atmosphere welcoming. They had a special that day which was bottomless mimosas for $15 per person but we opted to grab a bottle of red blend for ~$20. I forgot to bring my glasses so I painted pretty slow and was always a few steps behind the instructor so most of the time I had to eye my neighbor's painting instead. Would recommend. read more

Pinot's Palette Alameda - Paint & Sip Near Me - Alameda, California

A friend invited me to Paint Night here inside the Southshore Shopping Center (free parking). It's in between Starbucks/Bagel Street Cafe and it's near Old Navy too. We just checked in with our names and were told to grab an apron and painter's hat. They have assigned seating, very organized! Complimentary bottled water. The event was from 7-9pm. So, Nathan was the artist that night. Nice guy but felt like he was rushing us throughout the whole process and the instructions weren't that clear... we each had a set of 3 brushes and he didn't really tell us when to use what. There was another painter/assistant there but wish she was more involved. The bartender Kim was really nice & attentive. You just had to throw up a peace sign if you wanted a drink and she brought it to you. We got a 15 min break after like 45 mins of painting. They played pretty random music, sounded like stuff from the 70s and then I heard Bruno Mars too lol. Cool experience but felt like this particular artist went too fast. read more

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*Wine and Painting. How can you go wrong with that combination. *LOVE Pinot's Palette. The instructors are awesome. They give detail instructions. They went through each step and went around to help. They paint it together with the class. They are very patience. You don't have to bring anything, they prepare all the art supply for you.The place was pretty cool and gave a good vibe. *It's really therapeutic to be able to paint a background the way you want it to be, with the colors either darker or lighter, you can perfectly mix to make it look exactly how you want it. Add in your favorite adult beverage and girlfriends and it's a perfect evening. *I am the worst at anything that has to do with drawing, so painting was going to be a challenge. At the end I was pretty proud of how my artwork turned out. 4 Pinot's PaIette Painting later and I am definitely going to take more painting classes. read more

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Myself and 6 family members painted here for my birthday in Feb. We had a really fun time! We are all veteran painters (through another similar company) so had no trouble following the instructor except that since we were using tall canvases it was a little hard to see what the instructor was doing. The bottomless cranberry mimosas were delicious and a good deal. I'll be back with and without family. I want to check out the Freestyle Afternoons which I think are very reasonable at only $20. read more

Pinot's Palette Alameda - Me, Mom and Son, fun! - Paint & Sip Near Me - Alameda, California

Fun girls night out...The instructor was great, a great atmosphere, class started and ended on time (the instructor also offered to stay later for those that wanted to add their finishing touches), drinks are good and a lot of free parking! I'm becoming addicted to painting! I've been twice and wee be back on the 24th for Like A Diamond painting. read more

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Loved it! Great location. Reasonably priced bar. Great instructors. Class times start and end as advertised. Definitely coming back read more

I found the owner's response a bit sassy regarding my inquiry about the same night sign up discount. I tried this studio out for the first time this month, so far I've attended three classes and as much as I love painting, I don't appreciate an "as you know from visiting in the past we ALWAYS offer same night sign up". Customer service is an F. Every time I've visited, myself and my guest always feel rushed out. I give Pinot's Palette Alameda an A+ for getting us out the door as fast as possible so if you sign up for a 2-hour class... Expect to be out the door right on the dot. Hearing back from the owner just spoiled my interest in returning in the future and I'll renege my word-of-mouth referrals. Unfortunately I have one more class that I already signed up for but that will be my last since it's non-refundable. I'm bummed but that kind of response is unacceptable. That was the tipping point. I took the time to share thoughtful feedback and receive a "well you should know by now" response without even addressing anything else I mentioned in my message. Wow. read more

Located in the South Shore Shopping Center, this chain brings the alcohol and art concept to a cozy storefront. I won a free class through their Facebook promos and I chose their Teacher Happy Hours which feature a discount for educators. Score! I braved a rainstorm to drive into Alameda on a Friday evening. Once I finished battling for a parking spot, I went indoors. I couldn't hang onto my own water bottle but I was treated to a complimentary one. I had arrived early so I went to a nearby coffee shop and got a bagel with cream cheese As a former teacher, I appreciated that our instructor went over the agenda. Then it was time to paint. I mingled with the teachers and non-teachers around me(that's right, all are welcome but be prepared to hear school-related stories) as we followed the step by step process to paint a Bay skyline. I loved the class. Unlike previous paint nights when I've attended on my own, the Pinot's Palette staff really knew how to build a sense of community in a short time. I would definitely return. read more

Pinot's Palette Alameda - They had assigned seats which eliminated the awkward search for those without a plus one. - Paint & Sip Near Me - Alameda, California

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My roommate and I came here on a whim when I saw a Facebook event. We booked it same day. We had SO MUCH FUN. A glass is on average $8 but we split a bottle of Rockwall Red wine. At the end, we booked another paint night! If you've ever wanted to do this, but never committed... DO IT. read more

Pinot's Palette Alameda - Paint & Sip Near Me - Alameda, California

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So so so much fun! My awesome friend Dawn B. Had her baby shower here last night and it was amazing. So much fun even though I am by no means creative. As Dawn hosted a special event, she was allowed to bring/provide snacks and food. But the location also sells wine and beer! Awesome! While we were being directed on how to paint our hummingbird photo, the bar hostess would deliver drinks to your seat! Amazing! The class was super fun and though we spent nearly three hours there, the time flew by! The instructors were so fun and willing to help me correct my funky looking hummingbird and take a bazillion photos for us. I will be back and next time kid dragging Joe with me! read more

Pinot's Palette Alameda - My end result. Lol. Crazy looking hummingbird - Paint & Sip Near Me - Alameda, California

Perry (sp?) was very helpful in helping me plan my sister a "surprise party" and changing the dates when needed. It wasn't a private party just a regular date we picked on Pinot Palletes Calendar. We had a party of 13 total. The lot of us ordered "bottomless" mimosas. We were having such a good time laughing and enjoying ourselves. After the first 30 mins, Nina cut us off from anymore mimosas. She said that we were being too loud. Great customer service would tell a party "could you please keep it down a little," or some sort of tactful gesture. Instead, she waited for us to request another round of mimosas and then said "we're cutting you guys off because of the noise levels." Naturally our family is loud and we have no problem keeping it down. However we did plan a party and we were aware of it not being a library. But this is bar where you must be quiet. Moving forward, there was really 1 person in our party who was very loud. And instead of cutting that one particular person off, the whole party of 13 was cut off including the birthday girl. After all the confusion, I approached another lady and asked her "are we really being cut off because were being loud?" And she said "oh no, we're only allowed to serve two mimosas per hour" she was very very nice about it. However, when I brought the information back to the group it did stir up more confusion. False advertisement is advertising "bottomless" and then only allowing 2 per hour. Meaning 4 drinks total since the paint session is only 2 hours. My brother who we've not seen in two years due to being deployed came in 30 mins late. After 1 mimosa, he too was also cut off. Then we told Nina "well he just walked in and only had one." She replied and said "okay 1 more but that's it" We felt very belittled as we were confronted loud enough for the rest of Pinot's Pallete's customers to hear. Practice what you preach, I guess. As the rest of the day went on and other people were laughing and being loud enough for us to hear... I noticed that they were not approached in the same manner we were. Please be aware when ordering "bottomless mimosas" on Sunday. I was later approached with "thanks for your understanding about our "corporate" policy" Hmmmm... legally, false advertisement would also be against corporate policy. I called Perry about the situation and she apologized for her staff (Nina's) behavior. She also gave us credit enough for 1 person to enjoy another date night. 1 star because me and family were still able to have a good time regardless of the rude customer service. read more

I'm no artist. I can barely draw a stick figure. It looks like an oval with crooked lines coming from it, pretty sad. As a girls night we normally go to a dive bar or two. This time I wanted to change things up. The three of us book a Saturday night class a few days in advance. We showed up a few mins before 8 got signed in, tied on the apron and found our assigned spots. Class started promptly at 8. The instructor Arturo introduced himself and the 2 other painting employees and the bartender (which was the most popular chick in the place) The 2 hour class went by very quickly. Each step was shown and explained. The 3 artists came around to check on us to give help and more supplies. The wine and beer selection was good and the prices were decent. On average $7-8 per glass. Some selections were only available by the bottle. Most people were there in pairs/groups and purchased bottles. Had a great time, made a nice painting and shared some laughs while making memories. I'm looking forward to the next one. read more

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My very first time and my friend's second. We were both nervous. Her, because she was never able to finish a previous painting and me, because it was my first and I adopted her fears of incompletion. BUT...as u can see, we FINISHED! Our success is largely owed to our fantastic and encouraging instructor and the circulating helpers. Through strategic mixing and layering of paint, the desired image began to slowly unfold until it materialized into the final painting u see. It was so much fun! Even through the mess-ups it was fun because my friend and I were able to help each other un-mess it up. I love how my friend created a serene image with a perspective of distance while mine appeared more close-up. Observing this, I sought to discover how she produced it and learned something new from her. It's interesting how while we all have different views looking at the same things, they can be beautiful as well as ones we can learn from if we dare to look and understand from others' perspectives. Jenny, thanks for gifting me with such great memories. I think we achieved our "inner peas" exercising our imagination together and rooting each other on throughout the process!!!! And thank you, Pinot Pallette!! What a wonderful non-techy medium to foster closer bonds with people and self. We will see u again soon and can't wait!!!! read more

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I've been twice and both times was an absolute blast. I don't have a shred of artistic ability and I left with paintings I could proudly hang in my home. (Check out my action shot to see!) The instructors are lively and are very knowledgable as they walk around the class helping you perfect your technique. Seriously when they offer you feedback listen! They know their stuff. I'm not a big drinker but the wine I tried out, I think it was called 'First Date', was delicious. Perfect for a date night or a girl's day out. read more

Pinot's Palette Alameda - My very first time painting! I was amazed at how easy the instructors made it to follow along - Paint & Sip Near Me - Alameda, California

I came for a private party with my mom's work group, and we painted a version of Van Gogh's "Starry Night." Our artist was David, and he led us on an easy path to our creations. I really like that they have their own bar (raise your hand to ask the artist for help, raise your hand in a peace sign to get the bartender to come and refill your drink!). They also have what looks like every single painting they offer lined up on the walls, so you can see if there's something you want to come back for. I'll definitely be back! read more

Pinot's Palette Alameda - Paint & Sip Near Me - Alameda, California

I randomly stumbled by this place one afternoon while shopping at South Shore. I've always wanted to do a Paint Night, so I told my friends (and bf) about it and we booked immediately. We did the May 29th class. The theme was "toes in the sand". The four of us walked in there nervous, since we don't paint at all, and are barely artistic! We had so much fun!! Our instructor Adam and Rory were great! They showed us everything we needed every step of the way, and encouraged is to do what we want while still doing as they say. Oh yeah, the alcohol helped us tune into our artistic side also! Overall, I would recommend this place! Perfect for a date night, girls night, whatever! If you go to their website, you can see the classes they offer for that month and you can see the theme for that class. We are already planning on coming back & I can't wait!! read more

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I came here for a private group event a couple of weeks back. The whole process leading up to the event was well organized: email sent to potential guests explaining the event with a link to sign up/pay, reminder emails of sign up deadlines, informational emails with location details and other general info. Since we were commuting from SJ, it was a bit of a commute to get there and took over an hour on a Saturday afternoon. When we arrived, the workers were very friendly and told us how to get set up (grab an apron, where to put our things, etc). The painting experience was so fun! My first time doing it and it was ridiculously easy. The teacher and other workers were very helpful throughout the entire process offering suggestions and helping us out if we were lost. The wine selection was great and they even served you were sitting so you didn't have to stop painting. Prices from what I remember were very good too... less than $10 for a glass. I want to come back here and try out one of their special events or on a Sunday for bottomless mimosas;) read more

Pinot's Palette Alameda - Private event - Paint & Sip Near Me - Alameda, California

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Came here on a Thursday night for two hours of fun! We arrived 10 minutes after class had started but they greeted us with friendly smiles and helped the two of catch up. Our instructor was great with her instructions and she entertained us throughout the night with a fun playlist and jokes. Don't worry if you're a beginner - the instructions are easy to follow and the staff is willing to help answer any questions/help show you the ropes of needed. Would highly recommend coming here with your significant other, a group of friends, or for a team bonding event. It's fun to paint and to laugh together. read more

Pinot's Palette Alameda - Paint & Sip Near Me - Alameda, California

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I really enjoyed my class here. The instructor was funny and knowledgeable. He broke the painting down really well; he made the painting very simple to paint . The wine selection was pretty good and fairly priced. There was a selection of really good cheeses, crackers and prosciutto too that are free for all the students. Overall a really lovely experience. Great for all adults especially couples! I'm definitely coming back here. read more

Pinot's Palette Alameda - Paradise in Paris - Paint & Sip Near Me - Alameda, California

So much fun ... this was great experience of me and my husband... I always love painting and now my husband too ... it's great for friends, couples or just to have quality time there ... staff is really friendly and helpful.. had amazing time will definitely revisit!!! read more

Pinot's Palette Alameda - Us with our painting - Paint & Sip Near Me - Alameda, California

So far I've been 3 times. Each time was super fun. I am pretty crafty and handy but not so much with the being able to paint a composed picture. I was nervous about not being able to paint something that didn't look like it was done by a 4 years old. But the instructors are great. They walk you step by step through the process. If you do get stuck there are extra staff to help you through. I noticed each time I am getting more comfortable painting and have even "gone rogue" to add my own special touches. The wine and beer selection is great focusing on local wineries and breweries. The prices are also pretty reasonable. FYI you can't bring any outside beverages in, even non alcoholic. They will however provide you with free water. With so many awesome paintings to choose from I will certainly be back. read more

Pinot's Palette Alameda - Crane! - Paint & Sip Near Me - Alameda, California

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Had a great time last Sat 10/13/18 with instructor, Art. He made the class fun and entertaining. We painted the Halloween version of Starry Night. My friend and I were also celebrating our birthdays, so they gave us bday crowns and a spcial gift. Such a great experience. read more

Pinot's Palette Alameda - I painted this with instructor, Art, on 10/13/18! - Paint & Sip Near Me - Alameda, California

I've spent 2 Birthdays here having a blast panting while having drinks with friends and family. I'm saddened to know this location is now closed. Was planning to go this weekend. read more

I have done paint night type classes before. This was a fun trip and experience for me. It was slow paced which is great because you don't get overwhelmed too quickly. I have done painting before in the past, so at times I was a bit bored. However, it was nice to have some breaks in the painting to drink, chat with others and walk around. There were lots of choices for paintings in all different styles. For my painting class we did an abstract piece, but I loved all the different styles on the wall. Also lots of beer and wine options and the prices weren't too bad. I had a beer which they had on tap, but I was tempted to order the bottomless sangarias. Elia was amazing and was so outgoing, sweet and helpful. She made the painting class a real blast! read more

Pretty cool place ! It was my first time here with my company. The instructor did a pretty good job on teaching us how to paint. We had ordered pizza and there's a bar inside. They don't accept Apple Pay, lol, so I didn't get a chance to drink since I forgot my atm at home. But their choices of drinks looked pretty good. I would highly recommend. I'm thinking of coming back with my husband for date night. read more

This place was sooo much fun! I took my mom for her birthday and my family and I had a blast. Even if you don't paint often it'll be super easy to follow. The staff are very friendly! It's easy to sign up, hassle free. I recommend this for anything really. Girls night out, birthday party, or a date night. It's really special to paint a work of art and take it home with you. This was my second time ever painting, first time here and I'll be back! read more

Pinot's Palette Alameda - Super fun, and you can make it your own! - Paint & Sip Near Me - Alameda, California

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Had a great day painting my Diva. The staff were great. Everyone was very attentive. Great customer service. I signed up for another class because of how well this class went. read more

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Fun! Get some girlfriends..or make it a date! Good music, helpful instructors. Wine sold separately. read more

Pinot's Palette Alameda - Fierce and fabulous - Paint & Sip Near Me - Alameda, California

So much fun! I came here with my boyfriend on a date and we had a great time. The staff were helpful and friendly. They made us feel welcome from the moment we walked in. The artist was very funny and entertaining, but also very patient and willing to help us when we needed it. Couldn't have asked for a better instructor. I hadn't painted since I was a kid and I was worried that it would be super difficult. But, the artist gave us lot of encouragement and really clear step-by-step directions, so if you're a beginner, you've got nothing to worry about. It ended up being a very relaxing experience (I'm sure the wine helped). We painted a landscape and were both really pleased with how well our paintings turned out. And I can't complain about the drinks either! Lots of local options and a big variety of choices. He tried both of the beers on tap (loved them both!) and I couldn't say no to a glass of wine (or two!). Perfect place to go for a date night out, especially with all the good food nearby. I can't wait to bring my mom here for her birthday. It was an all around excellent experience. read more

Had to come update after hosting my 30th birthday party here. Arranging the party was a breeze, and was pretty much free to reserve (refundable deposit that we put towards the bar at the party) and they coordinate picking a photo, making a cute invite, and giving you a link for guests to buy tickets. It is on the pricier end of activities at $49 per person, but real friends make the effort right?! They even asked what kind of music we wanted and kept the jams coming all night. We brought in cupcakes and snacks for our guests and they provided plates, napkins, and a perfectly sized counters to serve everything on. We picked to paint "North Shore" which was a gender neutral wave painting that we thought most could enjoy. The instructor was awesome and they have people walking around to help out as well if you get too lost (or tipsy) to catch up. It seeeeemed simple when we chose it but this was the most skillful of the the 3 I've been to, but by no means was it difficult. They really break it down so you are happy with your painting. The party came with cushion time and we never felt rushed and had plenty of time to socialize. It was the best choice for my party! They even took the time to send a thank you card with extra goodies after the party. Would do it again in a heartbeat! read more

Pinot's Palette Alameda - The party people! - Paint & Sip Near Me - Alameda, California

We came to celebrate my friend's wedding and she loves doing this. I find myself the least artistic person I know, just don't have a creative mine unfortunately. I was also late but the staff were so welcoming and happy and pleasant! Provided me with water since no outside drinks and was able to sit next to my group (requested when signing up) for only 39$ and 2 hours of fun with friends and making a great piece of work was definitely worth it. Definitely coming back! They also offer alcohol (there's a bar) they take you step by step and teach you the ways! They offer 10$ off your next visit if you purchase it at the end of the session. Amazing experience! read more

Pinot's Palette Alameda - I'm impressed at what I've created - Paint & Sip Near Me - Alameda, California

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Went here yesterday with 2 friends and it was great fun. Once you get in, you are given an apron and you go and find your seat. All the materials will be ready for you, all you really need is just sit there and have fun. The instructor was not too fast, and everyone can follow along very well. They very much encourage your own style despite all of you doing the same painting. Unleash your inner artist or just have fun making your half-buzzed masterpiece. The bar at the side serves wines by the bottle and glass, and there were 2 beers available that time from the Alameda Island Brewing Company (Yay local!) which I love as well. You can keep your tab open, and just call out a staff member if you want more drinks from your seat. There are also some staff members who can assist you if you find yourself having difficulty with your painting. A great experience. Now I want to do it all the time... read more