51 and TEL

Large, stylish and spacious. We were a group of seven people and three dogs and could spread out when we first got there Saturday opening at 3 PM in the back patio. A few other parties came after us, but we were just there for one drink so I’m not sure how busy it got afterwards. We ordered at the bar and they have a full menu of interesting cocktails. I got the golden girl and it was a great balance, making it way too easy to drink. Did not try the food, but there was a vegan pop-up in the back patio with the QR codes around the bar to order online. The restrooms were separated by men and women and are spacious and clean.

This place is so chic and the cocktails are innovative and refreshing. What I enjoyed most was Vegan Chula on the patio. The food was absolutely amazing. I am nowhere close to being vegan and the food blew my mind, the griddle corn cakes are to die for. If you’re looking for a place to have a delicious cocktail in a cool atmosphere with yummy food, you’ve found it. I could go on and on, but you should just experience this vibe for yourself :)

51 and Tel is an absolute treasure in Oakland’s cocktail scene! From the moment you step inside, you’re welcomed by an inviting ambiance that strikes the perfect balance between chic and cozy. The cocktails are nothing short of spectacular—creative, expertly crafted, and full of vibrant flavors that showcase the bartenders’ incredible skill and attention to detail. Whether you’re a cocktail connoisseur or just looking to try something new, their menu has something for everyone. One of the standout features is the artwork displayed throughout the lounge. Created by a talented local artist, the pieces add a unique touch of personality and elevate the entire space. It’s wonderful to see a business that not only supports local talent but integrates it so seamlessly into their identity.

Very fun vibe and great cocktails. Their signature Manhattan was the best nightcap. Espresso martini - well I could have had 3. Wish we tried seeing the back patio! But the vibe at the bar was warm and inviting.

On Saturday night (16AUG25) at or around 12am, the bouncer refused to let me and my friends enter, the bouncer told us they were “full”. I understand that any establishment can refuse to let people into their business especially if they’re at max capacity, however, immediately after they let in the people that arrived after us. Even though no one had excited the bar. My friends and I had a bit of words back and forth with the bouncer (nothing disrespectful, just asking why we weren’t allowed in) and then the bouncer proceeded to say, “We treated you people well during Pride, ain’t no dykes getting in tonight”. Keep in mind I was with two male friends, so that slur was specifically directed towards me. After that, he told us that he was going to call the cops on us if we didn’t leave. We stayed because we were waiting for our friends that were already inside. I just want everyone to know if you plan on going to this bar, they are homophobic and do NOT give these people your money if you have common decency.

The place is nice and there is patio as well, but got 1 drink with my friend and left to go somewhere else because Mojito tasted like tap water and her lemon drop didn’t taste like a lemon drop, also no salt rim, for $15 each drink we would expect more.

I've been here a few times now and the vibes are always great. Great place for a first date or to watch a game with your friends. Staff and security is always really friendly too.

The CUTEST bar!!! Came here for a few drinks with some friends and had the best time! Sexy vibes, amazing aesthetics, clever cocktails and they also had the most delicious vegan food I’ve ever tasted. Huge shoutout to Vegan Chula! I’m not even vegan but her corn cakes and Mac-n-cheese were 🤌🤌🤌🤌 delicious! We will definitely be back!

Excellent cocktails & service, I had a damn good whiskey sour from here & I'm very particular about my drinks. Good music / DJ inside - nice patio in the back. Great for fun or a date.

This was our last stop during our Xmas pajama bar crawl This spot is a vibe No drama Decor is cool Nice music Bartenders are friendly Would definitely come back here again

Everything went well and I cannot wait to be back. Craft cocktails, really good service and a super cute outdoor patio, means I'll be back to this neighborhood spot ASAP!

Love this new spot! Cool vibes, great cocktail selection, huge outdoor patio (heated!), and they have a DJ on weekends. Thanks to Ben for opening which will definitely become one of our new favorite spots in the neighborhood!

The service was fantastic, the bartenders are attentive and check in on you regularly. I enjoyed the trivia night, really grab your attention type.

Only been open two months and creating a different vibe from most places in Oakland. Super fun and laid back but then great music from the DJs as well. Loved the bartenders and menu but they also have a full bar so I was able to enjoy some classics. Check out the nice patio too! Def will be back

Love this place! The cocktails are excellent and the whole vibe was everything that is good about oakland. The crowd as super diverse in several dimensions and everyone is having a good time

Great ambiance and drinks! The workers are nice. I would totally come back! I went during the Grand opening on a date and we had a great time.

I visited this establishment the first week of opening and was very impressed with the service and drinks. I have made plans to go back soon

This is a hopping night spot and is fairly new. It didn't feel like a pick-up club. The staff was friendly but they could use waitresses. The cost was like other bars, too expensive, but OK for an occasional treat. They have an outdoor back area to sit and it had heaters but I stayed inside. The place currently has a Halloween theme and looked festive. Overall, nice to see a thriving new night spot.

Drinks were small for the price and the wait staff were unfriendly. Place was basically empty and the service was pretty slow. Ambiance was uninspired. Was rly looking forward to visiting this place but def won't be going back.

This place is everything we love about Oakland. It's down-to-earth, cool, friendly and a diverse crowd. An extra bonus: there were a lot of people but it wasn't so loud that you couldn't have a conversation. I'll definitely be back.

Me and my girls love this bar! It's a vibeeeee From the fun bartenders, to the drinks to the ambiance everything is 10/10.