Introduced to this hidden treasure when I went to a cookie exchange hosted here. Recommended the place as a lunch spot for my girlfriends and I to reconnect. Total fan. The breakdown: - atmosphere: chill. You can come here to get work done on your laptop or as a relaxed get together with friends - staff: suuuuuper friendly, easy going. The guy behind the counter when I went this last time whipped me up a hot buttered rum, off the menu item that was so freakin delicious. I wouldn't have even known had he not been so friendly and eager to make my experience there great Food: delish. I got a tamale and an empanada. Nomx3 I think its really cool that you pay using the iPad app- tip, signature and electronic receipt. I will absolutely return, with friends or to have some "me" time. Also: dog friendly 4 stars only because I wish the menu was more extensive. read more

I work from home, so I really enjoy trying out all the wifi cafes in my area. This is without a doubt my absolute favorite place so far. I've only really been here during the day when they're more of a cafe, not a bar, but I can only imagine it'd be just as awesome at night. There's a ton of space, including a cozy lounge area in the back. The ambiance is really nice, and the best part (for me) is that they allow dogs. Holy crap. And they have empanadas. You can't get any better than that. read more

Eight years ago, I ate the most heavenly vegan Cameroonian food. It was at a small place in Berkeley. I just moved back to the Bay and hunted this food down. The guy is now serving on Tuesday nights at Room 389. I told a friend, "let's go there" and we did. First of all, the bar was great. Great ambiance, decor. The happy hour was great. $4 for well drinks. The bartenders were definitely at different skill levels. I ordered a whiskey sour and the first one I got was a whiskey and water. I didn't drink it and got it remade. The second time around it was good... and the third was AMAZING. There is one bartender who has the perfect hand with a drink. If I knew the names, I would totally say it here... cause his drinks were spot on. After hanging out for a bit, the guy with the Cameroonian food came in. He had a veggie combo, chicken combo, and fish combo. I tried the veggie combo ($10) and my friend tried the chicken combo ($12). Both were AMAZING! Whatever he put on the plate was magic. Spicy and flavorful and pure deliciousness. Definitely coming back on another Tuesday night... this might become a thing for me! Go... and bring cash for that food... totally worth it! read more

My local bar. I've lived in the neighborhood for 3 years; love this place. * trivia night: fun and run by the same man who does trivia at Cato's Ale House (piedmont) and other local trivia nights. He's the master! * Bartenders are friendly, efficient, and not snobby at all, The ONLY time I had trouble getting service was election night/watching the returns, and that's because they were offering free shots for every state Obama won. Also, they had guest bartenders that night. * This spot is a café by day.The couches transform into a place to work with your laptop rather than flirt over beers. I will sometimes get a pour-over coffee and a tamale in the morning. They also offer small pastries. * Parking is hard to come by (that goes for the whole neighborhood, actually). Limited street parking is usually available after several passes around the block. I always walk, but friends have had a hard time parking nearby. read more

Went to Room 389 for a little date night with hubby & we both loved it. Seating was a bit limited (the back room was taken up by a big party), but what bar isn't. After we finally grabbed a seat at the bar we started with the special cocktail menu (I ordered the bourbon drink I forget the name of but it was FAB) then continued on with some beers and even got to try some drinks tailored to our tastes by our patient and helpful bartender. Did I mention that you can also order some of the best shrimp wontons from next door and eat them at this bar? They'll even deliver them to you! Room 389 has a great neighborhood atmosphere without being dingy or divey in the bad way. It's decor is stylish, crowd is sophisticated but unpretentious, the cocktails are delish and bar is well stocked. Def add to your places to try if you're in the area. read more

Service is really nice, I love the later in the week night crowd. It can get a little busy, but it's worth the wait. read more

Great service in here all the time. I didn't enjoy the coffee or latte that much. But the drinks mainly the greyhound is awesome. The fresh grapefruit juice makes the difference and I've asked other places but they don't have fresh squeezed juice. Great atmosphere with a laid back vibe. I wish they played different music at times but overall a great place to hang and drink. Good happy hour prices! read more

Room 389 - Bar window - Bars Near Me - Oakland, California

Came here a few Tuesdays earlier this year for African night (I got a bit addicted to the food..I think it was a 3rd party that came in to serve food this place does not actually have a kitchen). The front bar area is pretty big and the back is a lounge space with some very comfy couches and a cute DJ booth. I like how there is always a place to sit and chill out with your friends when you are here. The specialty drinks are well made and the crowd is a good mix. I really enjoy hanging out here, everyone is super friendly. If we have a group of friends I usually suggest this place. It's a good chill bar to go to for a local (like me!). read more

When you're in the mood for a super-crowded bar, definitely go to Room 389. Usually standing room only when the weather is nice. (when it's cold and rainy outside, it's much more quiet) Cocktails are fine, decent selection of booze. Quiz night is fun, but you can barely hear the questions sometimes. Prices are normal read more

Nighttime or late weekend afternoons is the time to be at 389 Grand. There is good music and a good crowd at this local style bar. I am not a huge fan of the design of the place, the seating and the lack of good lighting, makes me feel like I do not want to stay for a long time. Its not bad just could be better. Wednesday night trivia is fun. However, I am not impressed at all by the cafe in the morning. There is no real food or pastries, there is a so-so tasting quiche and muffins usually. I am not sure why but it takes forever to get my drink too. read more

Hands down one of the best bars in Oakland! Room 389... where to start? What continually draws me back to this place is definitely the environment. Above all, the people that come here are chill. Even on a busy night, the crowd keeps things cool and its relatively easy to get a drink without bumping elbows. I also like that the crowd age is mixed well between older millennials and middle age people. You certainly will not find an excess of young debauchery like some spots in uptown. This is also one of my go-to spots for watching sports games. Order your favorite delivery and have it sent to the bar. Outside food is not frowned upon which I think is pretty great. read more

Super awesome atmosphere. I like how there is the typical bar seating or in the back there is couch seating. Makes for a little more intimate setting. The music was nice and it was an eclectic crowd. Loved it! read more

I absolutely love this place! It's by far one of the coolest neighborhood bar/lounges in the Lake Merritt-Oakland area! Super friendly staff, great drinks and good music. On any given day you may hear your local DJ spinning fine vinyl tunes, no serato here! The owner is not some douche bag just collect money, he is actually super cool and puts in his fair share (if not more) of hard work behind the bar. Sometimes there is food being served (for a small fee). The vibe is one of a neighborhood hang out and most people do know your name lol. The bartenders are well educated about their selection of spirits and they recommend superb choices. The place is safe and people respect one another there. If you want good people, and a great place to meet some of the locals come to 389 in Lake Merritt California. read more

I love Room 389..I've been going quite a lot lately! They have free wireless and most of the time I go, I have my laptop with me and a nice Grandhound (ask bartender to add some cherries) by my side. Also the DJ's are great, variety of great music, nice mellow atmosphere. On Tuesdays they have some triva night--so if you don't like that kind of crowd, its not a good night to go. I think its Wed. where there is a guy who comes in and sells plates of hot and tasty African food...YUM. Diverse crowd..nice seating. The only thing negative that I have to say is that twice there have been people with their dogs in there...not cool..in my opinion. I don't hate dogs, in fact I like them. However, when there are people consuming drinks and food, I'm not a fan. Also, you usually have a tough time looking for parking...But I'm still giving it a 4! read more

This review is based on two experiences at Room 389. Lazy Sunday afternoon and loud/fun Tuesday night African food. Both experiences were extremely enjoyable. If you're going there during the day on a Saturday or Sunday, I would highly recommend trying the bloody mary. It comes garnished with a crispy piece of bacon and delicious pickles. Perfect afternoon drink. They have a good beer selection. Really nice atmosphere during the day with sky lights. Now on a Tuesday night! African food = amazing. Atmosphere = loud, fun and filled with a hip crowd. We tried the fish plate and the chicken plate. Made the mistake of asking for two servings of the hot sauce (don't do that). They know what they're doing when they're only serving you one spoonful of it. Food is delicious and goes very well with the selection of beers on tap. I live in the neighborhood and will be going back for more soon. read more

I love this place! Great beats, great drinks, great trivia, great sports! No cover, either. Be careful when pouring the first glass off their pitchers, though... read more

The staff was very dismissive for sure, give attentions to their regular crowd. I would strongly encourage all visitors stay away from this place. Order a beer and told the staff would pay in cash. After over 40 minutes of no services, decided to leave. When requested to pay cash again, the staff decided not to listen.... terrible at best.... read more

Great atmosphere for getting some work done and enjoying a great cup of joe. I had the cold brew and will Definitely be back soon!

I came in the afternoon, around 6-7. Looking for a place to do some work. I was a bit wary of the description mentioning a bar and glad I took the dive. They offer a very pleasant outdoor seating with a high bar and chairs that offer both street viewing and more confided space in the corner. This inside was packed with people so it had that scene of the bar to offer as well. Free WiFi as stated and they serve a mean old fashion. read more

Cool groovy spot, dark inside with plenty of seating out front, bar seating, tables, and comfy seating in the back as well. A great mix of people, very oakland, everyone friendly, and always a plus to see dogs in the bar. Fantastic cocktail menu, doing some really tasty stuff, that goes down nice and easy. 389 is the perfect spot to unwind after a long week, relax with a pre din cocktail, maybe a walk along Lake Merritt after. read more

Any bar lives or dies based on the atmosphere they provide. That being said, Room 389 definitely lives up to a nice atmosphere with friends and the likes for a round of drinks. Their selection is fairly wide in spectrum, but I've had some hesitation ordering mixed drinks from them as one day it'll be way too much on the liquor, and another day where it can be fairly weak. Their lounge area in the back is very attractive, as it's part layout of their back "dance area" so to speak. The overall size of the bar is relatively small (long and deep, but narrow), but their patio area up front (ash trays provided, yay!) makes up for the room lacking. Their live music is hit or miss, as can be expected from differing DJ's on hand. Been here on a regular weekend, but also for holiday celebrations like New Years. There's no real "barrier" here, that is to say - you won't be filled with disdain from hipsters dressing up like their from the 1940's or anything. Or will you find yourself weirded out from any other clique. It's overall a very open atmosphere, very relaxed and friendly all about. I once read that this was a "dry hump" bar? ... I could definitely see that, but it won't be without reason i.e. dry humping to John Mayer or some stupid bullshit like that. It retains a level of class that anyone can tolerate. It won't be a waste of time to check it out if you're looking for a new bar to try out. read more

Is this bad?? 3 bar reviews for one night? Came here Saturday with my cousins. I mean what can I say. Been here plenty of times! The only thing that has changes is the name and the owners. But still has that same chill vibe. Music was great, People watched/talked. It was nice. Will return if I'm on this side of the Town. I'm not into traveling for a good time unless I'm hoping on a flight. read more

I really like this place. It's become my default café and bar -- which is actually saying quite a lot, since I'm not the type to have a default joint. Coffee drinks are well made here. It's great to segue from studying in the afternoon to drinking in the afternoon -- or, combine the two and get a spiked coffee. Room 389 is pretty much the only reason I manage to study on a Sunday. Staff is friendly, the crowd is diverse but open. In true Oakland style, you get a real cross-section of people intermingling here. I love the vibe of the place when it's quieter, but never mind it as it starts to pick up. People are friendly and no one hassles you. read more

This place is amazing, from its bartenders to its drinks, yum! Music has a good mix. I still find some OaKland natives here and it's just an awesome fun place! read more

Spiked coffee drinks! Yes please. Everyone that works here is super friendly and seems to love their job. Been a handful of times, and can not complain a bit. read more

Room 389 - Boozy drinks! - Bars Near Me - Oakland, California

The place was nice, Scotch menu, well-poured drinks and cool DJ. Unfortunately, there were more lesbians than cute single women the night that I went, but from the other reviews, I don't picture this as the norm (?) I like a nice spot to have a drink with a classy lady, not expensive, friendly, and it really helps that they have two perfect tv's at the bar. No dancing, but if you want a drink, it's a good option. EDIT I've been back a couple of times since my first post. This is a low testosterone area, snobby, and if you're heterosexual, you'll find it challenging. I prefer more authentic Oakland spots, and i've found several that are less expensive and a lot more fun, where a man can feel more comfy. read more

We stopped here after dinner over at Boot and Shoe Company to check it out. Loved the quirky, retro, literate decor, the comfortable seating, the friendly bartender, and the great cocktails. Did not love the totally incongruous reggae music. Just what I want with my basil-infused top shelf Manhattan... reggae music. This prompted a debate about whether these quirky, retro, interesting bars with artisan drinks and ill-fitting music that pop up are actually the brain-child of the owners, or just some decorating concept that some terrible consultant pastes on but no one really cares about, or if the concept is really important to the Powers That Be but they just forgot about the music (we're looking at you, Era), or what. Fortunately somebody changed the music to a great blues sampler so we could concentrate on our excellent cocktails, and the endless debate about how much bike evangelism is too much versus just enough to prompt useful shifts in transit habits. Important things. We'll be back for sure. read more

Ohhhh me so loveeee dis place!! Love day ambience, day peepole, and da musac. I be back fo more

Fun spot on a Friday night, lively, some singles on the prowl and great music. Fresh juice cocktails!

Great atmosphere here in a local Oakland setting. Lots of great beers and well drinkings. The best part is just walking home after too many drinks! Yeah! read more

First time here and I am not much of a bar-goer, but I felt very comfortable here. Mellow and plenty of sitting place at the bar or lounge area. Came on trivia night (Wed) with lots of participants. Nice feel to it. Other patrons were very friendly. They also serve food! They had garlic noodles, shrimp shrimp rolls and veggie spring rolls. Very yummy! I loved the shrimp rolls. Cocktails were good too. I would def come back. read more

Excellent little neighborhood bar with Brother Thelonious on tap! There's even a decent Indian place (cheap!) next door that will deliver your order (free!) to you while you sit and drink beers with your friends. Very relaxed and enjoyable - looking forward to visiting with friends there again soon! read more

Great, attentive service! Lovely atmosphere and chill music. Mid 20s-late 30s vibe on a Fri night. Clean bathrooms are much appreciated! The lounge area is interesting and adds dynamic to the joint; it also has a DJ station. Wouldn't mind droppin by next time we are to watch the fire-spin show down the block at the lake. read more

This was the 2nd stop on our Oakland adventure waiting for my little brother to get home so we could take him to dinner and boy I'm glad we stopped here! The atmosphere was great, people were friendly, & the drinks were strong! We watched the Giants game at the bar and had a great time doing it! I really really love this place! read more

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Great bar on this side of the lake. We came in here after our last outing to Sidebar. Diverse crowd was the best part - old, young, and every ethnic group represented. Don't get to see this as often as I'd like. The decor was mellow - I liked that they turned off the two TVs. The drinks weren't too bad. Bartender wasn't the friendliest girl around but oh well. Ain't no thing. Still looking forward to come back and spend a full night with friends here. read more

We just missed the happy hour on this (which lasts till 8pm! good deal) but drinks aren't expensive anyways. Chill bar with some nice couches to lounge around on in the back and a standard bar top near the front. Really like the ambiance and chill feel of the whole place. Later in the night they have a DJ come in. Music isn't too loud so you can defiantly chat it up here. Yay! read more

Nice neighborhood bar by the lake.. popular with locals. can get quite crowded most evenings but nice drinks, though last visit they couldn't make the one drink I go there for called the Green Lush... said they didn't have the ingredients ready... booo! read more

I came in from out of town to try the place out. Unfortunately the bar staff wasted no time in being short and unwelcoming. They let me know the cafe menu was invalid since it was after 3pm (that's fair but why then was there a removable sign hanging outside saying 'cafe open'). I lightheartedly said "ok, so no quiche then?" (referring to the menu online) and they proceeded to say "no, there is no quiche, EVER." I understand and respect dietary choices being vegetarian myself however it is quite discourteous to get defensive and arrogant. As a result I quickly left, disappointed in coming short of experiencing what the establishment had to offer. read more

Super chill bar. They play all types of music, drinks arent overpriced, and the bartenders are cool. It's in a low-key spot so don't expect anything too fancy but the vibe is great so if you're looking to chill and have a few drinks by the lake this is definitely your spot. read more

Great place down the street from the house. Within walking distance from downtown. Great drinks (according to my wife) and they even carry a great ginger brew for the non alcoholic drinker (sad face). They draw a cool crowd of people, and the music is great. I have yet to be here for the food they serve on the weekdays. I'd suggest this place to anyone. read more