Ever found yourself yearning for a space where the clinking of glasses meets the hush of good conversation? Oaklands Bar 355 offers precisely that, a sanctuary where the ordinary fades and the evening unfolds in layers of delightful ambiance.
Bar 355, nestled at 355 19th St., Oakland, CA 94612, is more than just a place to grab a drink; it's an experience. It's a neighborhood bar, as welcoming to the first-timer as it is to the seasoned regular. Imagine a dimly lit, almost vintage environment, where soft tunes drift through the air, complementing the clink of ice in your glass. Here, the rogue porter, served in a bottle, is just the beginning. It's a place that invites you to unwind, to connect, and to savor the simple pleasures of a well-crafted cocktail or a perfectly poured beer.
Beyond the immediate sensory experience, Bar 355 offers a curated selection of libations, ranging from the budget-friendly beer to a full cocktail menu designed to cater to every palate. And the numbers speak for themselves: a rating of 4.3 out of 5 on Restaurant Guru, backed by 626 reviews from visitors, 340 photos, and 6 videos. The online presence, with 4,396 likes and over 3,254 check-ins, speaks volumes about its popularity and its place within the local community. The neighborhood itself, downtown Uptown Oakland, is trendy and vibrant, filled with other small businesses. Bar 355 fits right in, a quaint little place that adds to the character of the neighborhood.
But the story of Bar 355 extends beyond its physical location and online metrics. This Oakland establishment is also part of a weekly series called "The Nightcap," a feature that spotlights favorite local drinking establishments every Friday afternoon. This adds another layer of depth to Bar 355's significance, connecting it to the city's broader cultural and social tapestry.
To enhance your experience, here are a few tips:
- Order online.
- Consider delivery options.
- Check prices and read reviews beforehand.
It's a testament to the owners, Travis Dutton and Patrick Lynch, who conceived of the bar while in the middle of band practice in late 2009. Their vision has clearly resonated with the community, creating a space that's both intimate and inclusive, and a go-to spot for anyone looking to enjoy a drink and some good company.
In the realm of film noir and cocktail culture, one name stands out: Eddie Muller, author of "Eddie Mullers Noir Bar." His book, featuring cocktails inspired by the world of film noir, serves as a bridge between classic cinema and the art of mixology. Muller, also known as the "Czar of Noir" and recipient of the Raven Award from the Mystery Writers of America, hosts Turner Classic Movies Noir Alley, and has authored novels, biographies, and movie histories. His work exemplifies the connection between storytelling, setting, and the drinks that accompany the narrative.
Muller's work isnt confined to the page or the screen. In his book, he also publicly toasts San Franciscos infamous Aub Zam Zam Bar, once celebrated for offering "the best martinis in town," illustrating the long-standing connection between great drinks and memorable locations. This historical context adds layers to Muller's work, connecting it with the rich traditions of cocktail culture.
Moreover, the location of Bar 355 in Oakland also has historical connections. The infamous Heinolds First and Last Chance Saloon in Oakland, where Jack London was a regular, served as the inspiration for the ramshackle saloon scene in the film "Alias Nick Beal."
The actual menu of Bar 355 remains a key element of its success. While specific menus are often updated, the core value remains the same: offering a range of drinks for every palate, from cheap beers to sophisticated cocktails. The ambiance, described as dimly lit and almost vintage, is specifically designed to enhance the drinking experience, creating a space where guests can relax and enjoy their drinks.
The experience at Bar 355 is shaped not only by its drinks, ambiance, and service, but also by the community that has grown around it. With over 4,000 likes on social media and over 3,000 check-ins, the bar has become a central point for locals and visitors alike. The overall welcoming atmosphere, as noted in reviews and descriptions, emphasizes the social aspect of the bar. For people, it's a place where everyone is welcome.
This bar is more than just a venue; its an experience that captures the essence of classic, cozy comfort. It's a place that invites people to unwind, to connect, and to savor the simple pleasures of a well-crafted cocktail or a perfectly poured beer.
