"We’re in the midst of Reopening Season. And one bar that’s back (with a new executive chef) is Viridian. The neon-drenched Downtown Oakland cocktail spot has been offering indoor seating (walk-ins only) since April, along with a new menu of things like tempura calamari okonomiyaki, walnut prawn skewers, turnip cake and XO sauce, and crispy rice tuna tartare. The fact that Viridian was dubbed one of the “Best New Bars In America” last month should also give you the extra push needed to check them out, if you haven’t already." - lani conway