Sky Lounge

2467

1054

6535

11 years ago

Below-average bar in downtown san mateo Was waiting for available seats at the nearby shabu place, so decided to grab a beer at a bar nearby. Stopped by this place. Boy it was not a good decision We went in around 8pm no a saturday. Completely empty except for 2 people sitting quietly. We asked for a Stella--apparently they ran out. Asked for a sierra nevada--ran out. Asked for a light beer--they had "long board". Great! My friend got one of those. Not wanting to order what my friend ordered, I asked what other light beers they have--the answer is none. Jesus, I have more selections of beer available AT HOME. Why did we even go into this bar? Not the best place in town to visit read more

Sky Lounge - Inside - Lounges Near Me - San Mateo, California

Sky Lounge - Beer - Lounges Near Me - San Mateo, California

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Cat C.

1797

1846

3658

13 years ago

Stopped in on a Friday night with one of my friends because my usual watering hole, Under Attic was packed. Not really crackin that night, but they played good hip hop. I'm more into house now, but it's nice to change it up. The female bartender was nice and made a great strawberry cucumber mojito for me and what my friend called, "the best Long Island" she's had. Plenty of seating and a teeny dance floor towards the back. We would solely come back for the drinks. It's an okay option for downtown, but for a more loungey experience and for the crowd I prefer Mandala. read more

Sky Lounge - Long Island & strawberry cucumber mojito. - Lounges Near Me - San Mateo, California

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Charlene G.

2209

2264

11010

9 years ago

From what I remember... (teeheeheehee) This place is cool for a quick Friday night drop in. There weren't as many people, which is surprising because it was Friday night around 10pmish. The Bar tops were all taken but the booths and dance floor were empty, kinda sad. The bar had a cool neon color to it's backdrop which drew us into the bar. Once inside, there were many booths that lined the wall. This place would be fun, for a birthday or GNO. The Dj was playin decent music and when my friends wanted to hear a specific song, he was able to play. Sound system could use more BASS, but other than that, it was top 40s with a twist of hip hop. Would we return? Sure, maybe with a bigger group of people because it'll feel like we rented to entire club for ourselves ;) read more

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Cynthia B.

Elite 24

1083

1356

482

7 years ago

A good place to get drunk. Not the best bartenders, their skills are lacking. Call Jon Taffer from Bar Rescue guys, lol. They are super friendly however. Not the best bar, but it will do. There is a dancefloor and parking on the street in front. 4 strong stars. A decent little spot. One funny thing is that we went on a Saturday night and the DJ, a nice Asian man with lotsa jewelry and lotsa tattoos, kept announcing on the microphone over and over that it was Sunday. lol read more

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Tiff L.

75

4

1

8 years ago

Bartender was rude. We asked what's on the menu for happy hour and the bartender rudely said "idk, there's beer" and pointed to the ciroc section. I asked if there was margaritas and he looked at us like we was crazy or something. When we left the bartender and other customers was laughing at me and my friends. Never will come back. Fix your attitude before you serve your customers read more

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Alan G.

30

43

33

12 years ago

They play good music SOMETIMES and it's a decent sized space. Those are the only good things I could really think of for this place. As far as the cons, where do I begin? If I could describe the people that go here in one word, "ratchet" definitely comes to mind. I've seen so many fights break down inside and outside. Sometimes I've seen fights when I've gone there. And I've even seen fights a couple times while driving past. I've gone with friends since it's close to my house and I really try to have a good time. But it always seems that something goes wrong in this place. Full of aggressive people drinking past their limits. The drinks are pretty weak and the bartenders are whatever. Security tries but are often distracted. I just get negative vibes from this place all around. I'd say to skip this place when looking where to go out. read more

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Morgan B.

4

42

0

3 years ago

Impossible to get a drink at this place even when nobody is there. No food and overall service was rubbish. Will never return.

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Evelyn C.

258

406

14

13 years ago

Wow. Came here on a Monday night, and my friend and I were very pleasantly surprised. Who would've thought such a place could be hidden away in San Mateo? Well, not really hidden, but I mean...not sure what I mean, actually.... The decor is modern, clean-feeling, and somewhat airy. The drinks are absolutely amazing. I'm usually not much of a cocktail fan and typically stick to some kind of whiskey or beer, but Elias recommended one of their signature drinks. Once he described the drink to me and listed the ingredients, I changed my order from a beer to the cocktail. Best. Decision. EVER. The taste was reminiscent of maple syrup, but it wasn't cloyingly sweet--on the contrary, it was incredibly refreshing. When my friend later insisted we take shots (on a Monday night, no less), Elias recommended and made an Irish breakfast, a Jameson-based drink, which I was a tad wary about because Jameson, but wow. Amazing. Christina (sp?) took over the bar later on, and she's just as awesome as Elias. My friend and I had a great time just chatting it up with the two of them, as well as with two other bar patrons. Highly recommend this place, and I will be back for sure! read more

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Nerissa D.

104

283

2498

12 years ago

Celebrated my friend's bachelorette party here. It was my first time. The place is not a huge club but atmosphere is ok. It's a bit brighter but that's ok. At least you can see where you're going and who you're talking to. Security and staff were friendly. There's no cover charge. Parked right out front. Bartenders were attentive and quick to serve. Majority if the crowd seemed really young but I danced the night away so I felt young. DJ was amazingly cool! My friend who's the bachelorette was tipsy and wanted to just dance the night away. Thanks for indulging her! He played some good songs too. Nice place to hang out w friends & dance the night away. Lastly, dress code didn't seem strict. Check it out for yourself! Enjoy!! read more

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John W.

846

979

3985

12 years ago

My friend and I were looking for something close by nightlife-wise and we ended up at Sky Lounge - unfortunately our experience seems to differ from the majority on this one. We first paid for a $5 cover charge getting in which normally isn't bad but going inside, there weren't many people around and the fee seemed odd. There was a tiny dance floor in the back with two screens showing off the music video of whatever was being played (mostly hip hop). Then there's the bar area which is in the front with a few seats. Even with the few people that were there, it took a bit to get any orders going. At least the drinks were moderately priced (paid about $13 for two drinks). The people there were also on the older side. The venue itself was also looking a little all over the place as well. Come to the Sky Lounge if you're looking for a place with loud music and cheap drinks. Otherwise, there seems to be better options with more people and a more unique personality. read more

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Misha T.

753

6126

135

13 years ago

Kinda too expensive for downtown SM. Like I'm really not sure why you would pay $8 for a drink in this city. Buuut the bartenders are really nice and it's somehow more chill than you'd think. read more

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Colleen M.

50

61

53

13 years ago

I really enjoy coming here after work. The atmosphere is chill and the service is ah-mazing!(think archer) the crowd is businessy at the 6-7:30 mark as well as dinner crowd. So it's cool! The crowd later in the evening is, shall I say, a bit more..... How can I say this nicely.... Loud, brash, abrasive, impolite(is that a word?!). Yeah that probably sums up the late crowd. However I have to say good music last Thursday! Dancey, 80's/90's vibe. Good stuff! Rest assured I'll be back and I'll review again and again and again and again and again.... read more

Sky Lounge - Yuuuuuuuuuuuummmmmy! - Lounges Near Me - San Mateo, California

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Berenice C.

13

5

1

4 years ago

Sky Lounge has always been my go to spot. Chima makes me feel welcomed every time and is very accommodating. My co workers and I had a blast. read more

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Raia C.

0

11

0

5 years ago

The bartender was extremely nice, but I paid $10 per drink and each had almost no alcohol. I had 2 drinks myself and felt completely sober. Very disappointing to spend $20 on juice. read more

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Doug R.

Elite 19

349

452

33

12 years ago

Well, let's just say I have a contrary opinion to all these glowing reviews. It was raining when me and my friends came here for a drink on my birthday. The bouncer outside kept accusing my friend's Nike rain jacket of being a "hoodie". It was raining by the way, and he made us remove our jackets and put it in the trunk of the car and walk back through the rain. What kind of bs is that? When we got inside, there were people with baggy t-shirts, hats, sports attire, and jackets on in the inside. What were we dressed in? Dress shirts, polos, slacks, and dress shirts. We were by far the classiest people in the bar, and yet they still questioned our "hoodies"? What a joke. Let's just say the crowd was extremely ghetto. Something more like you'd see in Daly City or Holy Cow in SF. Ghetto. Ghetto. Ghetto. There are not one, but THREE security guards - in San Mateo? Really? Cmon. If you like expensive drinks, music video from YouTube playing on the screens, and an ugly crowd - this is definitely your "go to" place. Thanks Sky Lounge! read more

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Mitch Z.

291

62

17

11 years ago

Came in on Valentine's.. Dead empty.. Cool, no competition for the bar. Then the DJ showed up and played back to back selections of some of the worst music I've heard. 3 Sean Paul songs in a row... Painful. Me and all my friends immediately left. read more

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Hen A.

Elite 26 All-Star

3544

4212

8584

13 years ago

san mateo micro-club...bouncer checking identifications...no cover and no lines...video dj with music videos bumping...modern contemporary interiors...glowing lights from bar and table...bar at front for drink orders...four cocktails and paying $twenty-five...price not bad...lounging next to bar...drink service quite speedy and friendly...clock ticking later...packed and wild...younger twenties crowds dancing hard towards the back...sipping drinks and shaking...quite lively, quite loud and quite fun...mini-dance club in san mateo... read more

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Angeli G.

268

35

52

10 years ago

Really LAME place honestly. First off, we stood by the bar for ten minutes without anyone asking us what we would like to drink. Another customer came up and the bartenders immediately took his order. Playing favorites? Not cool. Then, when they did take our order, there were no choices for alcohol. I asked if they have Jack Daniels and they don't. Hennessy? Nope, they ran out. Okay, so we settled for a Rum and Coke. But then they reach into a cabinet and serve someone ELSE what we were asking for. I am not surprised that hardly anyone goes here when they are so selective about who they serve!!! Then, there is the tiny dance floor. The DJ is not bad at mixing, but not good either. My biggest problem was the fact that we were not being served when we went over to buy drinks! Awful service. I closed my tab after two drinks because it was not worth it. read more

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Sophia K.

Elite 14

926

1882

3405

12 years ago

Came here for a meet-up on a Friday night and it was really chill. For a small place, it has a decent amount of seating for you to hang out and talk. Until about 10pm. Then they blast the place with hip-hop (which I like) but it's super loud and I wouldn't count on continuing your conversation. They have a small dance floor in the back where you can dance. I didn't get a chance to try their drinks, but I heard it was okay. Overall, I like the upscale feel and chill lounge to hang out in SM. read more

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Tanusree M.

407

655

2416

10 years ago

I have actually been here a few times. Love the atmosphere and there's always nice people to talk to. I also like how you can order Indian food from the restaurant next door, that's definitely a plus ;) Every time I went, there was the same bartender and she was really friendly and attentive; I think her name is Kaitlin. Great bar overall! I will definitely be back. read more

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Givanni A.

0

2

0

11 years ago

Use this place as a last resort !!!! They seriously need to come up with a better way to market this place and make this place more friendlier! Drinks are a on OK price but the bartenders are such assholes and took awhile just to even be acknowledged! read more

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Antonio A.

124

22

11 years ago

Did I drink? No. Did I eat anything? No. Did I experience anything that everyone else is ranting about? No. Why? I decided to wrangle up some "in town for the holday" friends at 8:45pm on a Sunday (11/29) only to discover the place is closed - even though on their website, and Yelp states they should be open til 12am. Why Sky Lounge? Did you see us coming? Were you hiding behind the bar until we went across the street to the sports bar? Was it my shirt? read more

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Lauren B.

0

14

1

12 years ago

Being a local this place is definitely one of the better places to go in san mateo if you want to have a good time. the bartenders Esteban and Vino are awesome and make drinks just how you ask for them, plus they add a little TLC in there so they taste even better :) the bouncers are all pretty cool too and on top of their $hit if some people get too rowdy or drunk. which is a very nice filter. non-locals should definitely come to this place to check it out and see if it's your cup of tea-quila. which it will be..just sayinnnn. I noticed last time I was there that the crowd is always different and a range of colors so its very interesting seeing how people react with eachother's drunkness. placed has good vibes good music good bartenders. Go here and you will be guaranteed a good time . read more

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Azeema J.

0

3

1

11 years ago

I've been here a few times. And each time it gets better! I love the fact I have a comfortable place to let loose and chill after a long days work. Our bartender of the night was Amazing! Thank you Abbey for the various shooters...her pink starburst shooter is delicious! Thank you to Troy for being so cool and not complaining like other guys when backstreet boys came on haha. All in all I had a fabulous night and will continue to come here in the future. read more

Sky Lounge - These two are the best bartender and security gaurd Ever! Great drinks and super fun! Thanks for being awesome Abbey and Troy! - Lounges Near Me - San Mateo, California

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Valerie R.

10

68

72

12 years ago

Not sure what you want....leave it to the bartender. He had a few mixed drinks up his sleeves. Clean, well lit and updated....well done. Food can be ordered in. I can totally see grabbing a Mimosa with the girls on Sunday and ordering food from Three. read more

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Thuy P.

386

122

78

11 years ago

We booked the place for a private birthday themed party and good place was absolutely perfect for our group. Our group was about 30 people, the place could fit more . The staff even dressed up for our theme, which was a great surprise and we had so much fun. We had a spot for our dj, plenty of space for dancing and mingling, drinks were more than steady, bartenders and even security was lively, all smiles, and having fun along with us. Great vibe. read more

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Marissa L.

80

23

18

12 years ago

I really like coming here during the week and on weekends. There's this really cool and friendly bartender named Esteban (not too bad to look at either). He will make you a drink of your choice if you tell him what kind of liquor you like. I really liked the moscato kiss. read more

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Tyler E.

8

18

24

12 years ago

Definitely my favorite spot in town! Great place to come and hang out, whether it's mid day or late in the evening. Cold beer and sports channels, shots in celebration or to just cure a bad day, mixed drinks during a night out with friends on the dance floor and some pretty sweet deals during happyhour. All around great staff and great place to come and chill. J and Vino are amazing bartenders as well as just amazing, fun, funny and friendly cool people that know how to make you feel welcome! 5 stars all the way!! read more

Sky Lounge - Jameson and coke my fave! - Lounges Near Me - San Mateo, California

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William V.

0

3

0

7 years ago

We arrived at Sky Lounge after a very robust UBER ride, only to sadly find out that they were closed after having a seemingly pretty extravagant office Christmas party. However, they were fortunately very gracious enough to open their doors back up for our small party to have a couple drinks while we gathered our bearings and found another place to go. Would DEFINITELY recommend this place to anyone looking for gracious hosting, great service, and an even better time! read more

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Sean K.

13

6

9

9 years ago

While doing some bar hopping, my friends and I decided to stop here. It was midnight on a Saturday and dead inside, a cause for alarm for sure, but we stopped by anyway. We ordered a round of Old Fashions, which were fine, no problem there. It was when my friend ordered a glass of water and our bartender responded with, "really?" that I had a problem. He continued to heckle him while we there. The security being all over a female patron didn't help the atmosphere either. They'll have to make some big changes if I'm to come back here again. read more

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Joyce W.

9

105

0

9 years ago

Covering this cocktail bar and lounge, perhaps is something that I had failed to overlook in the past, of covering and reviewing frequented haunts of the San Francisco Bay Area. Overlooking all the local social pundits on social class and grace, this is a local established pub, that most of the locals frequent here in San Mateo, just overlooking the San Francisco Bay! Frequent beer on tap, offering every other type of beverages, liqeuers, liquor, and bottled waters, most often the bartender is stealthily in attendance to cater the bar at your every request. Amazing decor and hip, trendy atmosphere, where the host is really a smash with the clientele, always there with great grace and depardiou. Bon jour to the eclectic staff, prices are around the average, less extensive on the budget, and very bonmial unlike any other pub 'bout town. Fun and games for everyone, definitely eclectic to the feel of 'Cheers', "where everyone knows your name". Like any other local lounge, Sky Lounge is perhaps the most local trendy, hip and very suburbean type of feel in a downtown community of San Mateo. Every day, service is prompt, and as always, everyday people are ever ready to serve you. Ciao, read more

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Fevi M.

0

2

0

7 years ago

It's a casual and cool lounge. I love the music (90's hip hop and Rnb usually). But they are open to anything. They sometimes have a Dj. There's an Indian restaurant next door to order meal or smile bites. Fun bartenders, chill atmosphere . You'll love it read more

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Crystal C.

2

16

11

11 years ago

I've been here several times and the service was decent, but it gets crowded and there's a $5 cover charges. This time I came during happy hour and the service was much more personal. Kayda helped us and was a wonderful bartender. Friendly and did not make customer wait very long. If there are a lot of people at the bar, he'll acknowledge you that he's going to help you next. He smiles and is social with all his customers to make sure they're having a good time. When ordering a difficult drink or a very specific type of alcohol or mix, he tries his best to make the drink you're describing if it wasn't one of the usual cocktail. He's great! Come visit and look for Kayda! read more

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JayTee Z.

943

230

34

9 years ago

Should not have bothered to come here. My drink didn't taste right. I'd hate to say it but they may water down their alcohol here. I also didn't receive a full glass so all in all I feel pretty ripped off. Be careful with your credit card here too. I started seeing random casino charges after coming here. Do I know for sure if it was this place?...nope. You've been warned tho. read more

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Maryline M.

0

16

25

8 years ago

Small bar in San Mateo but with awesome people. The bartender made great suggestions to our group (newbie drinkers) and made us feel comfortable. It's not a dancing place but it's pretty chill and not crowded. The people attending are prob in their late 20s early 30s so it's an older crowd. Overall a nice Friday night! read more

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More info about Sky Lounge

76 E 3rd Ave
San Mateo, CA 94401
Directions

Full menu

Hours

What time does Sky Lounge open?

Sky Lounge opens at 4:30 PM on Thursday.Sky Lounge opens at 3:00 PM on Friday and Saturday.

What time does Sky Lounge close?

Sky Lounge is closed on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Sunday.Sky Lounge closes at 11:30 PM on Thursday.Sky Lounge closes at 1:30 AM (Next day) on Friday and Saturday.

Mon-Wed, Sun ClosedThu 4:30 PM - 11:30 PMFri-Sat 3:00 PM - 1:30 AM (Next day)

Payment methods

Does Sky Lounge take credit cards?

Yes, Sky Lounge takes credit cards.

Food & Alcohol

Does Sky Lounge have a happy hour?

Yes, Sky Lounge has a happy hour.

Does Sky Lounge serve alcohol?

Yes, Sky Lounge serves alcohol. Full Bar

Services

Is Sky Lounge by appointment only?

No, Sky Lounge is not by appointment only.

Indoor Amenities

Does Sky Lounge have TVs?

Yes, Sky Lounge has TVs.

Outdoor Amenities

Does Sky Lounge have bike parking?

Yes, Sky Lounge has bike parking.

Does Sky Lounge have outdoor seating?

No, Sky Lounge does not have outdoor seating options.

Does Sky Lounge have parking?

Yes, Sky Lounge has parking options. Garage Parking

Other Amenities

Is Sky Lounge wheelchair accessible?

Yes, Sky Lounge is wheelchair accessible.

Does Sky Lounge allow outdoor smoking?

No, Sky Lounge does not allow outdoor smoking.

Does Sky Lounge have free WiFi?

No, Sky Lounge does not have free WiFi.

From the Business

Specialties

Enjoy the company of friends in a welcoming atmosphere. Sky Lounge is your fresh and contemporary downtown club and sports bar with a myriad of cocktail specials waiting for your approval! Join us this evening! Our tastefully stocked bar is tended by trained staff who are waiting to concoct your cocktail and ensure your night on out is everything you expect it to be. We have more than 20 years of experience in the service industry. Our number one goal is making sure your big night on the town exceeds your expectations wherever possible. We're located in the heart of downtown and our staff is ready to receive you and all your friends tonight. Dance, drink, and watch your team today at our drinks lounge. Sky Lounge is your new favorite downtown club in San Mateo, California

More Info

Health Score

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0.1 mi

Absolutely incredible service and food, always a really great time. The ambiance and environment is…read morereally nice as well. My favorites are the torta talong, grilled beef short rib, and pinakbet. Can't beat it!

We arrived just before our lunch reservation. Thankfully it was not yet busy, and we were seated…read morefairly quickly. Seating options include the bar, indoor, indoor patio, upstairs indoor, and outdoor patio all surrounded by Island Pacific decor and atmosphere. Our server, Ace, and the rest of the staff were kind and helpful. We requested mango juice and waters all around. Also ordered Lumpia, Mango Salad, Avenida Fried Chicken, Pork Sisig, Salmon Sinigang, and (of course) both plain and garlic rice. Although we found the sisig dry, everything was well received. We might visit again when in the area again, and we would accept the menu's offer to pay with cash for a 5% discount.

View from below

BUKO PANDAN MILKY ICE

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Halo Halo

Flores San Mateo

3.9(407 reviews)

2.1 mi

Cesar was so welcoming and kind. He took great care of us and introduced us to new mezcal. We will…read moredefinitely be back for the great customer service.

I liked that restaurant. The food and services were great. we will go again tonight…read more Sandra

Bar area was packed!!!!!!!

PLATANO MACHO

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Sandia marde Mia

Bar Underdog

4.5(46 reviews)

13.7 mi

I think it's kind of funny that there is such a discourse amongst other reviews about whether or…read morenot this place is a speakeasy. As a speakeasy enthusiast myself I definitely agree to the fact that it is "hidden" but also it does kinda give corporate vibes a little bit - maybe we can say they "gentrified" the speakeasy experience which is honestly so funny for Palo Alto. But anyways I don't think a classification should stop you from visiting it. The food is actually surprisingly really good. We came with a pescatarian and honestly while the offerings for snacks were a bit slim, every option was really good. I feel like this was the first time where I understood the price even the the quantity is no where close to be desired. One shrimp is like $6 and I was like whoah. Service is definitely more laid back and it's overall just like a more chill atmosphere. I'm fortunate to work nearby so I'll definitely visit this place a few times after work to blow off some steam... And the drinks! Yes they are good! They are also quite strong! Would come back again but also if you're conscious of budget then I'm not sure if you'll find the same value proposition.

Food: 3 / 5 Service: 3 / 5…read more Ambiance: 2 / 5 Let's start off by making sure that we're all on the same page... This is NOT a speakeasy. Using that language sets up an expectation that neither the ambiance nor the vibe is able to live up to. I can only assume that those reviews that commend this place as a speakeasy have never actually been to a real speakeasy and are more accustomed to box restaurants and bars. I sat at the bar and ordered a bourbon neat with a water back. There were three staff members behind the bar, none of them were particularly friendly or outgoing, which as someone who worked in the industry for years is surprising as a new establishment. Even though it was happy hour time, it was a Wednesday the place was less than half full and good servers /bartenders normally add to the experience and help creat a customer base of regulars to sustain business after the "come see" crowd is over. I ordered d' nuts as a snack and they weren't very special, even a bit overcooked / burnt. Maybe this place is exciting for a Palo Alto crowd that doesn't get out much, especially on the stretch of California given the lack of competition. My guess is that after a few months they will be hard-pressed to find a steady crowd.