When I was in my 20’s two of my close friends decided to explore the world of stand-up comedy. I spent many a night in san francisco dives laughing my head off and even briefly considered the idea of getting on stage myself, but then I remembered that I’m not funny and I really don’t like attention. Even this substack is semi-anon.
My friends drifted from the comedy scene to focus on day jobs and whatnot but now that we’re all in our 40’s and YOLOing - they thankfully decided to revive their passion and bring the funny back. Sheila B of Oakland-based Mischief Partners is adding a twist to the east bay comedy circuit by reintroducing the concept of dinner and a show. They’re putting together a comedy showcase at beloved east bay restaurant Odin - with a multi-course dinner and mescal tasting, plus a lineup of four bay area comics.
Odin is the sister (or brother) restaurant to Nido’s and they’re known for their expansive Mescal list with a food menu built specifically to complement the beverage program.
The bay area has always been about the wine-pairings at chic restaurants - but I’ve noticed that in addition to wine and spirits, Oakland chefs and mixologists are now giving the same dedication and respect for pairing zero-proof spirits, low ABV cocktails and beers in unpretentious atmospheres. The east bay is having a bar food renaissance and I’ve put together a few local spots to check out where you can have light bites and make a night of it:
Gold Palm - opened in Oakland last year in the old Flora space, Gold Palm is within skipping distance from the Fox Theater- offering what they call Pakistani party food in a gorgeous and airy space. Whether you’re having a cocktail or a tea, Gold Palm delivers a satisfying selection of dolled up bar bites like chili cheese toast, samosas and cucumber salad. In lieu of a Happy Hour Gold Palm offer a Golden Hour from 5-6 p.m. for drink specials and their irresistible masala fries. But there’s more…Moonglow is their secret martini bar from Weds-Sat. Ring the golden doorbell for entrance.
Headlands Brewery - the family-friendly beer garden just opened another location in an office park nestled between Walnut Creek and Pleasant Hill. The new spot features a larger kitchen, so now they have a fryer to offer more than just their killer smash burgers - like a juicy brisket sandwich and chicken tenders for the kids. Just like their lovely Lafayette location, expect their beautifully designed outdoor space, fire pits, ample outdoor televisions with Warriors games playing and enough space for your kids and your dog.
Sipeos - an elegant new cafe/bar opened in Walnut Creek and features a very wide selection of low & no ABV cocktails for the California sober set, as well as beer and wine and Mediterranean bites. Sipeos started as an online shop and recently opened the doors on their refined new space.
Sobre Mesa - I don’t know why it took me so long to get here but the cocktails are creative and fun, the vibes are, as the kids say, on point (do the kids still say this? They probably don’t. So cringe!) and the food is flavorful and rich. Chef Nelson German is a former top chef contestant and has built a menu of Afro-Latino cuisine like Patatas Bravas with jerk chimichurri, romesco and peppadew gambas, plus plenty of plantains on the menu. It’s fun for a date or a group night out.
Upstairs - If you’ve been to Oakland’s beloved Michelin Bib Gourmand Snail Bar, you’ve likely noticed the signage asking you to keep your voice down for their neighbors. The upstairs neighbor ultimately moved out, so Snail Bar took the opportunity to take over their space and bring a clever new listening bar concept called Upstairs. Cafe by day, bar by night, Upstairs will feel like chilling at your friends apartment and features natural wine and low-abv cocktails with a great sound system and weekend DJ sets, perfect for a date or solo outing.
Have you been to any of these spots? Do you have other favorites? East Bae would love to hear from you!