Bar Shiru
Bar · Downtown ·
Tokyo-inspired cocktail den with extensive vinyl jazz collection
Tokyo-inspired cocktail den with extensive vinyl jazz collection
"Those with an appreciation for all things jazz, or who have a knowledge and appreciation for Japan’s hi-fi listening bars, will find a favorite in Bar Shiru. The atmosphere is more low-key than most bars you’ll find in Oakland, with vinyl spinning as patrons sit and listen while they drink — rather than a standing crowd overpacking the place. The drinks are as specialized as the music is; try a Japanese whisky flight or a specialty cocktail as the music floats through the air." - Nico Bianchi
"The first listening bar in the Bay is the truest to the Tokyo “jazz kissa” lounge experience, where service to the music comes first, and it brings out the best conversations. Since 2019, Bar Shiru has been both a great jumping off point for a night in the heart of Uptown Oakland’s entertainment district, and a singular destination for refined, precise, and comfortable vibes (yet unpretentious enough to order at the bar on weekdays). From Madlib’s essential beat conductions to Freddie Hubbard’s distinct trumpet tonalities, full albums play over the immaculate analog system (headlined by two LM-812 loudspeakers) that’s nothing short of a work of art. Meanwhile, the house’s signature Moonglow cocktail — an herbaceous and complex martini riff — nods to owners Daniel Gahr and Shirin Raza’s new speakeasy down the street at Gold Palm, another portal dedicated to sound." - Adrian Spinelli
"Bar Shiru is styled after Japanese listening bars where vinyl and high-end sound systems compete with cocktails for attention. Craft coctkails, beer, and wine can be consumed in front of an impress wall of records, and very, very nice glassed-in sound system." - Paolo Bicchieri
"Bar Shiru is a Tokyo-inspired listening bar we head to with anyone who complains that there are no fancy date-night bars in Oakland. It’s low-lit and moody thanks to a sound system playing tunes that oscillate between sultry and jazzy. Everyone is here to lounge at one of the round tables and drink highballs, Japanese whisky, or their favorite shaken drink while feeling hot, so it’s the move for date night or times you want to have some eyes on you. Arrive early for a seat or prepare to get on the waitlist." - Lani Conway
"Known as a hi-fi listening bar celebrated for its beats and drinks, Bar Shiru is the couple’s original project and served as the model for their follow-up; Raza and Gahr hunted for a second space until they landed the Floral Depot corner and envisioned adding food and a secret cocktail room to expand on Bar Shiru's music-and-drinks format." - Dianne de Guzman