Discover the Top Bars in Berkeley: A Guide to the City's Best Nightlife Hotspots

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Discover the best bars in Berkeley for a night out. From cozy pubs to trendy rooftop spots, there's something for everyone. Cheers!


Berkeley is a city known for its vibrant nightlife scene, with a plethora of bars and pubs that cater to all kinds of tastes and preferences. Whether you're looking for a cozy neighborhood bar or a trendy cocktail lounge, Berkeley has something for everyone. In this article, we'll take a closer look at some of the best bars in Berkeley that are worth visiting.

If you're a fan of craft beer, then you won't want to miss out on the offerings at The Rare Barrel. This popular taproom features a rotating selection of sour beers that are brewed in-house, along with a few guest taps from other local breweries. The atmosphere is laid-back and casual, with plenty of communal tables and board games to keep you entertained.

For those who prefer a more upscale drinking experience, Jupiter is the perfect spot. This stylish brewpub boasts an impressive selection of house-made beers, as well as a menu of wood-fired pizzas and other delicious bites. The outdoor patio is a great place to enjoy a drink on a sunny day, while the indoor bar area offers a cozy atmosphere for colder nights.

If you're looking for a classic dive bar experience, then The Albatross is the place to be. This no-frills establishment has been a Berkeley institution since the 1960s, and it's easy to see why. With cheap drinks, pool tables, and a jukebox that plays everything from old-school blues to modern indie rock, The Albatross is the kind of place where you can easily spend a whole evening.

For a taste of Berkeley's bohemian spirit, head over to The Starry Plough. This pub and music venue has been a hub for local artists and activists for decades, hosting everything from live music shows to political rallies. The beer selection isn't the most extensive, but the lively atmosphere more than makes up for it.

If you're in the mood for a fancy cocktail, then The Snug is the perfect spot. This cozy bar specializes in creative, handcrafted cocktails that are made with top-quality ingredients. The bartenders are always happy to provide recommendations based on your tastes and preferences, and the atmosphere is sophisticated without being stuffy.

For a taste of Berkeley's college-town vibe, head over to Kip's. This popular sports bar is a favorite among UC Berkeley students, thanks to its affordable drinks and lively atmosphere. With plenty of TVs showing the latest games, Kip's is the perfect place to catch up on your favorite sports while enjoying a beer or two.

If you're looking for a laid-back neighborhood bar, then Missouri Lounge is the place to be. This unpretentious establishment offers a wide selection of beers and spirits, along with a jukebox that's stocked with all kinds of music. The friendly staff and regulars make it easy to feel at home here.

For a taste of Berkeley's vibrant arts scene, head over to Ashkenaz Music & Dance Community Center. This non-profit organization hosts live music shows and dance parties throughout the week, featuring everything from traditional folk music to world beats. The bar area offers a selection of local beers and wines, along with some tasty snacks.

If you're a fan of tiki culture, then you won't want to miss out on The Kon-Tiki. This stylish tiki bar features a menu of tropical cocktails that are crafted with top-quality ingredients and served in elaborate ceramic mugs. The decor is a mix of retro kitsch and modern design, with plenty of palm trees and bamboo accents.

Finally, if you're looking for a rooftop bar with stunning views of the city, look no further than SkyBar. Located atop the historic Berkeley Hotel, this stylish bar offers panoramic views of the Bay Area skyline, along with a menu of craft cocktails and small bites. The atmosphere is upscale and sophisticated, making it the perfect spot for a special occasion.


Introduction

Berkeley is one of the most vibrant and lively cities in California. It is home to some of the best bars in the state, which offer a wide range of cocktails, beers, wines, and spirits. Whether you are looking for a place to party with friends or a quiet spot to unwind after a long day, Berkeley has something for everyone. In this article, we will explore some of the best bars in Berkeley that you should visit.

The Fourth Street Bar & Grill

The Fourth Street Bar & Grill is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. It offers a wide range of cocktails, wines, and beers to choose from. The ambiance is relaxed and cozy, with comfortable seating and a warm atmosphere. The bar also serves delicious food, making it a great spot for a night out with friends.

The Drinks

The bar has an extensive drink menu that includes classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned and the Manhattan. They also have a selection of signature cocktails that are worth trying. The wine list is also impressive, with a variety of reds, whites, and sparkling wines to choose from. If you are a beer lover, you will be pleased to know that they have a good selection of local and international beers on tap.

The Food

The food at the Fourth Street Bar & Grill is delicious and reasonably priced. They have a variety of appetizers, salads, sandwiches, and entrees to choose from. The burgers are particularly popular, and they also have vegetarian and gluten-free options available. The portions are generous, so you can easily share a few dishes with friends.

Jupiter

Jupiter is a popular brewery and pizzeria located in downtown Berkeley. It has a large outdoor seating area that is perfect for a sunny day. The beer selection is impressive, and they also serve delicious wood-fired pizzas. The ambiance is lively, with live music performances on most nights.

The Drinks

Jupiter is known for its house-made beers, which are brewed on-site. They have a variety of styles to choose from, including IPAs, stouts, and lagers. If you are not a beer drinker, they also have a selection of wines and cocktails available.

The Food

The pizzas at Jupiter are delicious and made with fresh ingredients. They have a variety of toppings to choose from, including vegetarian and vegan options. They also have a selection of salads and appetizers to start your meal off with. The portions are generous, so be sure to come hungry.

Revival Bar + Kitchen

Revival Bar + Kitchen is a trendy spot located in downtown Berkeley. It has a stylish interior and a relaxed atmosphere. The bar serves a variety of cocktails, wines, and beers, and the food menu features seasonal and locally sourced ingredients.

The Drinks

Revival Bar + Kitchen has a creative cocktail menu that includes both classic and modern drinks. They also have a selection of local and international beers on tap, as well as a variety of wines to choose from.

The Food

The food at Revival Bar + Kitchen is delicious and thoughtfully prepared. They use locally sourced and seasonal ingredients to create their dishes, which range from small plates to entrees. The menu changes frequently, so there is always something new to try.

Comal

Comal is a Mexican restaurant and bar located in downtown Berkeley. It has a lively atmosphere and a large outdoor seating area. The bar serves a variety of margaritas, cocktails, and beers, and the food menu features traditional Mexican dishes with a modern twist.

The Drinks

Comal is known for its margaritas, which are made with fresh ingredients and house-made syrups. They also have a selection of cocktails and beers to choose from, including local and international options.

The Food

The food at Comal is delicious and authentic. They use traditional Mexican cooking techniques and fresh ingredients to create their dishes, which range from small plates to entrees. The guacamole is a must-try, and they also have a selection of vegetarian and gluten-free options available.

Albatross Pub

The Albatross Pub is a cozy and laid-back spot located in North Berkeley. It has a dive-bar vibe and a friendly atmosphere. The pub serves a variety of beers, wines, and cocktails, as well as bar snacks and board games.

The Drinks

The Albatross Pub has a good selection of beers on tap, including local and international brews. They also have a variety of wines and cocktails available.

The Food

The food at the Albatross Pub is limited, but they do serve a variety of bar snacks like popcorn and chips. They also have board games available to play while you enjoy your drink.

Conclusion

Berkeley has no shortage of great bars to choose from. Whether you prefer a trendy spot or a dive bar, you are sure to find something that suits your taste. The bars listed in this article are just a few of the many great options available in the city. So, next time you are in Berkeley, be sure to check them out.


Berkeley is known for its vibrant and diverse nightlife scene. With a plethora of bars to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide where to go. Whether you're looking for the perfect date spot, happy hour deals, scenic views, craft beer, wine, dive bars, creative cocktails, sports bars, or late-night libations, Berkeley has something for everyone. Here are the best bars in Berkeley for every occasion.

The Perfect Date Spot: A Guide to Berkeley's Most Romantic Bars

If you're looking for a romantic night out, Berkeley has plenty of options. Here are some of the most romantic bars in the city:1. Comal - This upscale Mexican restaurant and bar has a cozy and intimate atmosphere, perfect for a date night. Their margaritas are a must-try, and they have an extensive tequila and mezcal selection.2. Jupiter - This popular brewery and pizzeria has a beautiful outdoor patio with string lights and fire pits. They also have live music on weekends, making it a great spot for a romantic evening.3. The Albatross Pub - This quirky and charming pub has a cozy fireplace and board games, creating a relaxed and intimate atmosphere. They also have a great selection of craft beers and cocktails.

Happy Hour Heaven: Where to Find the Best Drink Deals in Berkeley

Who doesn't love a good happy hour? Here are some of the best spots in Berkeley for drink deals:1. Revival Bar + Kitchen - This chic and modern bar has a daily happy hour from 3 pm to 6 pm, with $5 draft beers, $6 wines, and $7 cocktails. They also have a great food menu, making it a perfect spot for a post-work drink and bite.2. Henry's - Located in the historic Hotel Durant, Henry's offers a daily happy hour from 4 pm to 6 pm, with $5 draft beers, $7 wines, and $8 cocktails. Their outdoor patio is also a great spot to people-watch and enjoy a drink.3. Tupper & Reed - This jazz-inspired bar has a happy hour from 4 pm to 6 pm on weekdays, with $5 beers, $6 wines, and $8 cocktails. They also have live music on weekends and a cozy and intimate atmosphere.

Brews and Views: The Best Bars with Scenic Views in Berkeley

Berkeley has some of the best views in the Bay Area, and these bars offer the perfect vantage point to enjoy them:1. Lawrence Hall of Science - This science museum has a rooftop deck that offers breathtaking views of the Bay Area. They also have a beer and wine bar, making it a unique spot for a drink with a view.2. FIVE - Located on the fifth floor of the Hotel Shattuck Plaza, FIVE offers panoramic views of downtown Berkeley. They have an extensive wine and cocktail list, as well as small bites to snack on.3. Rooftop Restaurant & Bar - Located at the top of the historic Hotel Durant, Rooftop offers views of the UC Berkeley campus and the surrounding hills. They have a great selection of craft beers, wines, and cocktails, as well as a food menu featuring California cuisine.

Craft Beer Connoisseurs Unite: The Best Craft Beer Bars in Berkeley

Berkeley has a thriving craft beer scene, with many bars and breweries offering unique and delicious brews. Here are some of the best craft beer bars in the city:1. The Rare Barrel - This sour beer brewery and taproom offers a rotating selection of funky and tart brews. They also have a cozy and laid-back atmosphere, perfect for beer enthusiasts.2. Fieldwork Brewing Company - With two locations in Berkeley, Fieldwork offers a wide variety of IPAs, stouts, and other styles of beer. They also have a spacious outdoor patio and food trucks on weekends.3. The Trappist - This Belgian beer bar has a great selection of rare and unique brews from around the world. They also have a cozy and intimate atmosphere, with dim lighting and exposed brick walls.

Berkeley's Best Wine Bars: Where to Sip, Savor, and Socialize

If wine is more your style, Berkeley has plenty of options for you. Here are some of the best wine bars in the city:1. Donkey & Goat Winery - This urban winery and tasting room offers organic and natural wines made with minimal intervention. They also have a beautiful outdoor patio and a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.2. Gather - This farm-to-table restaurant and bar has an extensive wine list featuring local and international wines. They also have a daily happy hour from 4 pm to 6 pm, making it a great spot for a drink after work.3. The Barrel Room - This wine bar and bottle shop offers a curated selection of wines from around the world. They also have cheese and charcuterie boards to pair with your wine, making it a perfect spot for a date or a night out with friends.

Dive Bar Delight: Uncovering the Best Dive Bars in Berkeley

Sometimes you just want to kick back and relax in a dive bar. Here are some of the best dive bars in Berkeley:1. Missouri Lounge - This cash-only bar has been a Berkeley institution since 1952. They have a pool table, jukebox, and a laid-back vibe that makes it a popular spot for locals.2. The Albatross Pub - This quirky and charming pub has a dive bar feel, with a cozy fireplace and board games. They also have a great selection of craft beers and cocktails.3. The Graduate - This college bar has been serving cheap drinks to UC Berkeley students for decades. They have a dance floor, karaoke, and a lively atmosphere that makes it a fun spot for a night out.

Cocktail Culture: The Best Bars for Creative Cocktails in Berkeley

If you're looking for a creative and unique cocktail, Berkeley has plenty of options. Here are some of the best bars for cocktails:1. East Bay Spice Company - This Indian-inspired bar has a creative cocktail menu featuring spices and flavors from around the world. They also have a cozy and intimate atmosphere, perfect for a date night.2. Revival Bar + Kitchen - In addition to their happy hour deals, Revival also has a great cocktail menu featuring classics and creative concoctions. Their bartenders are knowledgeable and passionate about their craft.3. Tupper & Reed - This jazz-inspired bar has a cocktail menu featuring classic and modern twists on drinks. They also have a cozy and intimate atmosphere, with live music on weekends.

Game On: The Best Bars in Berkeley for Watching Sports

Whether you're a die-hard fan or just enjoy watching the game with friends, these bars have you covered:1. Kip's - This sports bar has over 30 TVs showing a variety of sports games. They also have a great beer selection and a lively atmosphere.2. Pappy's Grill & Sports Bar - In addition to their sports coverage, Pappy's also has a great food menu featuring burgers, sandwiches, and wings. They also have a large outdoor patio and a friendly atmosphere.3. Henry's - Located in the historic Hotel Durant, Henry's has a large bar area with TVs showing sports games. They also have a great selection of beers and cocktails, as well as a food menu featuring pub favorites.

Late Night Libations: The Best Bars in Berkeley for Night Owls

If you're a night owl, these bars are open late and have great drink deals:1. Triple Rock Brewery & Alehouse - This brewery and alehouse is open until 2 am on weekends and has a great selection of craft beers and cocktails. They also have live music and a lively atmosphere.2. The Graduate - In addition to being a popular college bar, The Graduate is also open until 2 am on weekends and has a dance floor and karaoke.3. Kip's - In addition to their sports coverage, Kip's is also open until 2 am on weekends and has a lively atmosphere and great drink deals.

Something for Everyone: Berkeley's Best Bars for a Diverse Night Out

If you're looking for a diverse night out, these bars offer something for everyone:1. Starry Plough Pub - This Irish pub has live music, poetry slams, and other events featuring local artists. They also have a great beer selection and a friendly atmosphere.2. Revival Bar + Kitchen - In addition to their happy hour and cocktail menus, Revival also has a great food menu featuring farm-to-table cuisine. They also have vegetarian and vegan options.3. Jupiter - In addition to their scenic outdoor patio, Jupiter also has a great pizza menu featuring vegetarian and vegan options. They also have live music on weekends and a friendly atmosphere.

Best Bars in Berkeley: A Local's Perspective

Introduction

Berkeley is a city known for its vibrant nightlife and diverse bar scene. As a local, I have had the opportunity to explore many of the city's bars and have narrowed down the list to the best ones. In this article, I will be sharing my point of view on the best bars in Berkeley, along with their pros and cons.

The Best Bars in Berkeley

1. The Albatross Pub

The Albatross Pub is a cozy dive bar that has been a staple in the Berkeley community since 1964. It has an impressive selection of beers and board games, making it a popular spot for students and locals alike.

  • Pros: Great beer selection, affordable prices, friendly atmosphere
  • Cons: Can get crowded on weekends, limited seating

2. Jupiter

Jupiter is a popular brewery and pizza joint located in downtown Berkeley. It has a beautiful outdoor patio and live music performances that draw in a large crowd.

  • Pros: Delicious pizza and beer, great outdoor seating, live music
  • Cons: Can be noisy, long wait times on weekends

3. Bobby G's Pizzeria

Bobby G's Pizzeria is a laid-back sports bar that serves up delicious pizza and beer. It has plenty of TVs for sports fans and a pool table for those who want to play a game.

  • Pros: Delicious pizza and beer, good location, friendly staff
  • Cons: Limited seating, can get noisy during sports games

4. The Graduate

The Graduate is a popular college bar that has been around since the 1960s. It has a spacious dance floor and multiple bars, making it a great spot for a night out with friends.

  • Pros: Large dance floor, multiple bars, affordable drinks
  • Cons: Can get crowded, loud music

Conclusion

Berkeley has no shortage of great bars to choose from. Whether you're looking for a cozy dive bar or a lively dance club, there's something for everyone. In this article, I shared my point of view on the best bars in Berkeley and their pros and cons. Hopefully, this guide will help you find your new favorite spot in the city.

The Best Bars in Berkeley: A Guide for Visitors

Thank you for taking the time to read our guide to the best bars in Berkeley. We hope that this article has been helpful to you and that you have found some great new spots to check out during your visit to this vibrant city.

If you're looking for a place to grab a drink with friends, Berkeley has plenty of options to choose from. Whether you prefer a cozy dive bar or a trendy rooftop lounge, there's something for everyone here.

One of our top recommendations is Tupper & Reed, a stylish bar located in the heart of downtown Berkeley. With its impressive selection of craft cocktails and live music events, this spot is a must-visit for any cocktail enthusiast.

Another great option is Jupiter, a popular brewpub that offers a wide variety of delicious beers and tasty wood-fired pizzas. This spot has a relaxed and casual atmosphere, making it the perfect place to unwind after a long day of exploring the city.

If you're in the mood for something a little more upscale, head to Comal, a chic Mexican restaurant that also boasts an impressive bar menu. Their margaritas are some of the best in town, and the elegant decor will make you feel like you've stepped into a swanky speakeasy.

No matter where you go, you're sure to find friendly locals and a laid-back vibe at any of Berkeley's best bars. And if you need a break from the bustling city scene, why not head to the hills for a scenic drive and a refreshing drink at the Claremont Club & Spa?

Of course, no guide to the best bars in Berkeley would be complete without mentioning the legendary Albatross Pub. This quirky spot has been a favorite among locals since 1964 and is known for its extensive selection of beers and lively game nights.

For a truly unique experience, be sure to check out the Graduate, a hotel bar that is themed around the iconic Berkeley campus. With its vintage decor and delicious cocktails, this spot is a great place to soak up some collegiate vibes and meet new people.

Another local favorite is the Triple Rock Brewery & Alehouse, which has been serving up delicious brews since 1986. This spot is perfect for beer lovers who want to try something new and exciting, as they offer a rotating selection of seasonal and experimental beers.

If you're looking for a more intimate setting, head to The Starry Plough, a cozy pub that hosts live music events and open mic nights. This spot has a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, making it the perfect place to catch up with friends over a pint.

Finally, we recommend visiting Free House, a laid-back bar with a great selection of local beers and ciders. With its outdoor patio and friendly staff, this spot is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Overall, Berkeley is home to some of the best bars in the Bay Area, and we hope that our guide has helped you discover some new favorites. So grab a drink, relax, and enjoy all that this amazing city has to offer!


People Also Ask About Best Bars in Berkeley

What are the best bars to visit in Berkeley?

There are many great bars in Berkeley, but here are some of the most popular:

  • Jupiter
  • The Albatross Pub
  • Revival Bar + Kitchen
  • Mikkeller Bar
  • Triple Rock Brewery & Alehouse

What's the best bar for craft beer in Berkeley?

If you're looking for a great selection of craft beers, check out these bars:

  1. Mikkeller Bar
  2. The Rare Barrel
  3. The Trappist
  4. Fieldwork Brewing Company
  5. East Bay Spice Company

Where can I find the best cocktails in Berkeley?

For delicious cocktails, try one of these bars:

  • Comal
  • The Starry Plough
  • Longbranch Saloon
  • Revival Bar + Kitchen
  • Paragon Restaurant & Bar

What are the best bars for live music in Berkeley?

If you're looking for a fun night out with live music, check out these bars:

  1. The UC Theatre Taube Family Music Hall
  2. The Starry Plough
  3. Ashkenaz Music & Dance Community Center
  4. The Freight and Salvage Coffeehouse
  5. Cornerstone Craft Beer & Live Music

What's the best bar for a casual night out in Berkeley?

If you're looking for a laid-back atmosphere, try one of these bars:

  • The Albatross Pub
  • Jupiter
  • Triple Rock Brewery & Alehouse
  • The Graduate
  • Bobby G's Pizzeria