Penelope

Stumbled into this cozy little spot for happy hour and ended up staying way longer than planned—thanks to Sam, the bartender who somehow makes pouring drinks feel like a masterclass in hospitality. Seriously, Sam’s the kind of person who remembers your name, reads the room perfectly, and makes everyone feel like a regular—even if it’s your first time in. The vibe is relaxed, no-frills, and exactly what you want when you’re winding down after a long day. Great drink specials, solid pours, and good conversation if you’re lucky enough to grab a seat at the bar. I came for a quick drink and left wondering if I should become a regular just to hang out with Sam more often. Highly recommend for happy hour, first dates, or solo nights when you just want a good drink and great company. Just don’t steal my seat at the bar.

We found this place on a whim and we’re pleasantly surprised. The craft cocktails are excellent, full of flavor, and reasonably priced. The food menu is limited (didn’t try anything) so we decided to just have a drink here and head somewhere else for dinner. Venue is cute but small so it can get busy and fill up fast, especially when it’s too chilly to sit outside.

The inside of the bar gives me speakeasy vibes and ambiance, with elegant dark wood, and fun sprinkle of apothecary. Delicious cocktails served fancy glasses. Friendly bar tenders.

The drinks are amazing, and they have a reasonable happy hour. Oakland Heat (pictured) is really freaking hot! They are not messing around. Consider yourself warned. The charcuterie plate is not at all worth ordering. I would have given five stars if that hasn't been so disappointing.

Such a great cocktail bar. The drinks are very good, high quality. And the atmosphere is super friendly and welcoming. They have both indoor and outdoor seating that can accommodate groups. Will be going back again soon!

Very nice neighborhood bar. Our bartender for the night was Desmond, He was AWESOME! very delicious and unique menu and the atmosphere was beautiful. Definitely going back

This is truly a hole in the wall bar. It really depends on the bartender, if you get the biker chick, good look, I don't think she like people that's not her color, now the guy bartender is down to earth and welcoming, It's quite, tucked away and a good place to stop, I just check the bartender before I enter.

Did a stand up show on Wednesday there, It was very Oakland.... But I had a great time.. very intimate

OK for starters the address that is given is wrong ots across from 1150 clay There's some street parking but the I side is so cute and intimate I'm really glad I stumbled on this place and I look forward to coming back their menu had so many great options ! I asked about happy hour I hope their hours expand during summer if so I will update this review because I will be back to try other menu items

I'd like to premise that I always meet the most interesting characters at Penelope. It's halfway to my work so it's a great place to head to after a long days work. The cocktails all have a kick to them, not sure if it's the extravagant mixers/syrups, or the garnishes that make them the whole package. The staff has always been great and the owner is very personable!The space is not very large so it's good for maybe a group of four, max. You can always find something new and quirky to make you fall in love more and more with the space and with the Town. Oh, and try the empanadas! I'll find myself in the near future sitting at the bar enjoying a Negroni with bubbles.

Loved this cute small bar. The bartender made this amazing drink for us! Perfect for summer highly recommend.

I love this little bar, it's hidden on the side of some corporate building but has such cozy vibes. I wish I knew of it sooner. I got 2 cocktails although not gonna lie I can't remember the names but they were both super tasty. Everyone in my group loved their drinks. The bartender was so friendly too. We also got their empanadas and honestly kind of fire. It was the perfect after work drink type of bar.

Walking from my hotel to a seminar the first morning I passed this place. It caught my eye and memory because my first dog was an Irish Setter I adopted from a race car driver family named Penelope. On returning to my hotel that day around Happy Hour I ducked in, figuring none of the politicians, corporates, or nerds from my seminar wd. be likley enter the place. The two co-owners behind the bar were great. We discussed wine, food, Spain, dog breeds, . . . and Penelope. I asked why for the name of your place? They just pointed reverently above and there was the church-like painting of HER!! I asked if they had ever seen "Elegy" in which she and her naked breasts co-starred along with Ben Kingsley. They were gobsmacked, saying they would rent it that night. Day 2, returning from my seminar I ducked in again and the 2 owners greeted me by name. A table of people from the Oakland office were there, surprisingly and a major dickhead who had spoken on stage the day before yelled, "Wait! you're in Oakland for less than 48 hours and the bartenders know you by name!?" Well, yes. And it's part of NOT being a dickhead. ______ So I read a question about Penelope on a Y-named-website. It asks, "Hey there - can someone please advise on the demographic of this bar? Students? 30-40? 40+? Thanks!" No one answered. My answer would be, "The only people who would feel comfortable here are those withOUT a bug up their ass and a phone taking selfies of their phony face for "Y" or "Instrajam." And "demographic"? It's restrictave. Pretentious people like dickheads from the Oakland office should not feel comfortable here.

Juan is super great! We have come here twice and it was a really great experience! We like to come here randomly and both times it did not disappoint ! The drinks are great and so is the service. They also serve empanadas 3 kinds: mushroom, beef and ham & cheese! We have had the mushroom and beef and we definitely prefer the mushroom the pastry is so crispy and the inside is yummy! We will be back soon! Especially now that they have taco Tuesdays!

Little spot in the corner of the building I use to work in. Been here with coworkers a few years back, so I knew the place was small but, it was just the right atmosphere grab a quick drink with someone special and have a good conversation. No loud music, not crowded and no distractions was a plus!

Great drinks. The owner and bartender was accommodating and welcoming..it was great place to meet friends and coworkers for cocktails.

Penelope is a super cute spot to grab a drink at. The ambiance is very welcoming and the drinks are really tasty. I love tequila so really liked that there were a lot of tequila based drinks, favorite was the hibiscus mezcalita

This is my GO-TO spot! The drinks, the atmosphere, just overall top tier. Johnny always makes sure you have a great experience. Make sure you try the weekly drink specials, they're always a great take on familiar drinks but the twist is he only has them while it lasts!! I'm tellin' ya come to Penelope's for a great time, solo or with friends regardless it'll be worth it.

Love this place. They welcome yo like you're family and treat you like that the entire time you are there. Which is obviously too long as I have left my credit card there more than once. lol Seriously, great place. Johnny makes craft cocktails and has enough personality to run 10 bars. Definitely a place I will hit once a week.

I'll be honest - I've only been here once and only had one drink. Still - it was amazing! I came on a Tuesday night at around 9 PM and there were a few people at the bar and the tables. It's a really small place, dark and intimate. The bartender greeted me right away and gave me the menus. This place came recommended by a friend who also travels to Oakland for work. Unfortunately, I wasted most of my "drink power" on not so great drinks elsewhere, so I was being good and only had the 1 drink at Penelope as it was a school night. I went with the Jali Berry cocktail which was an amazing concoction of Gin, jalapeño, blackberries, Luxardo Maraschino liqueur and fresh lime. I literally watched the bartender squeeze half a lime into the drink and pour out 4 long beats of gin into the glass. Before that, she took the time to muddle the blackberries and jalapeño. My, oh, my - that was one spicy, tasty cocktail! I was soooo tempted to try some other drinks, but I didn't want to get wasted. I will try to go back tonight before I head back to Boston tomorrow. If not - I know that Penelope will be one of my first stops the next time I'm in town!

YELP 100 CHALLENGE 2017 - PART 2: 51/100 Still my favorite watering hole in the East Bay. I'm a SoCal gal and I visit NorCal often, and when I do, I try to make it a point to make a stop here. (Well. Time permitting!) The staff is always amazing (Yay, JOHNNY!) and I've made friends with many of their regulars. They all collectively make sure you feel welcome here. It really is a great place to just have a glass or two to unwind from a long day. I stick to beer but they have a variety of wine and cocktails/mixed drinks they can make for you. I hear good things! It is a small place, but they do get crowded. Come out and find out why! Looking forward to that next visit!

Been here a few times now. The house drinks are unique and I have loved every one. The bartender is friendly, and it's a great spot to chill with a friend and enjoy some delicious new cocktails.

Gem of a place! So glad to see it survived the pandemic. The owner is great, friendly and makes the best cocktails! Love it, feels like home!

Yep...Johnny is just that good. Always welcomed with a smile. So very glad that they are back.

Yay! They survived the Pandemic and our open for business!

Lame wine pours. I bet I have three ounce pours at best. I will not be back. A bottle of wine that costs $9 at lucky You charge me $9 PER glass? LAME! Good Luck

Perfect for happy hour with coworkers if you work nearby! ...did find it a little loud during their event nights (standup?) It's a small location so it's pleasant to sit outside when it's warm--not so much when it's windy and cold. Limited spacing. Definitely look inside before calling all your friends over! Would otherwise give more stars, but I found their menu and service inconsistent. Sometimes house wine was good, sometimes it wasn't. Sometimes the cocktail was strong, sometimes it's weak. The appetizer platter was similarly inconsistent where sometimes there were more cheeses/meats, sometimes less. Sometimes they were fast, sometimes slow. I prefer my regular spot to be consistent, don't you?

Wow! How did I accidentally avoid Penelope for years? Honestly, I think it may have been the "4pm-closing" hours listed on their website. When I go out in Oakland, it's usually a weeknight, and one too many times I've spent forever parking only to find that a place closed at, like, 9 or 10pm. In any case, all was well and they were open and hoppin' at 9pm on a Tuesday, but judging by previous reviews complaining about unclear closing times, I'd still exercise caution here. But back to what's important - amazing. cocktails. Spicy drinks are my favorite drinks and wow, do they know how to do them right. Both the "Los Pepinos del Amor" and the "Oaktown Heat" were awesome. The menu is pretty extensive and has a nice mix of sweeter and drier cocktails; definitely a good place to go with a group with varying tastes. Prices are on par with other good bars downtown, and the pours range from standard to generous. Service was quick and friendly, and the bartender dealt very gracefully with a patron who had, um, bebido demasiado.

One of my favorite bars in Oakland! Johnny who is the owner and bartender, such a great service and makes amazing drinks. Love the ambiance and drinks are top notch! They also have comedy night every Wednesday. Highly recommended

This review is for the happy hour that they have a weekday. Well drinks are only five dollars which is such a great deal. They do not skimp out on the alcohol as well. They have outdoor and indoor seating. They do not have that much under settings so if it's a nice day I highly recommend sitting outside. This place is easy to miss if you are driving, but it is located right next to a huge construction site in between 12th and 11th street. I will definitely be returning for their happy hour!

Lazy Friday after working and decide to meet my cohort at Penelope, as we always go to District and wanted a change that night. It is a small place and can be overlooked unless you are looking for it. There are a few outside seats, but there were smokers when I was there Friday evening, so I opted for bar seating while waiting for my cohort to get there. I started with the Manhattan Project, which was had coffee bitters that I liked a lot. Not over sweet and the cloves in it gave it a contrast to the usual manhattans. I also had an old fashioned and was surprised, as most places make it to sweet, this one was strong and punchy. My cohort got a creation the bartender made which we dubbed the unicorn for the color, and the base was tequila (which I am not the biggest fan of) but it was nice with the pineapple juice and pickly pear juice.

Definitely would come back here. Unique drink options, I would try each one if I could, lots to choose from for any palate. Although it was hard to decide because most of the combinations I've never heard of. I was visiting from Seattle and made a reservation here for a party of 6. The layout of the place was the perfect setting for our group, the music was lively the chairs were arranged for group conversations and causal talk. The bartender was accommodating and nice. We truly enjoyed ourselves. I highly recommend this place for any occasion.

Penelope is a cute little (as in tiny) hole in the wall bar. We stopped in for some late night drinks and the place was almost empty yet still felt friendly. The bartender was prompt with drinks.....and secretly I love it when the bartender is also drinking. The drink selection was good and the pour strong, all that you'd ask for in a late night dive bar.

My friend and I were looking for nearby Happy Hour spot as we were waiting for an event to start nearby. Yelp took us to Penelope. It's a cute smart bar with minimal outdoor seating. They have a pretty good drink selections for happy hour definitely some cool drinks like the chamangorita which consists of tequila, mango juice, chamoy, and a tajin rim and lime of course. That was pretty good. I guess we went on a day when they were short staffed but the service was still good for only having one person doing everything at once. The downfall of it all was that the draft machine is broken so there wasn't any draft brews and they ran out of wine glasses. Asides from those mishaps, I'll definitely come back again for more drinks

Came for happy hour after work with colleagues and asked which beers they had on tap. The bartender just said that the tap system was out of order but to compensate he could've let us know of at least the bottled beers and offer to give those for hh pricing. He wasn't very friendly and didn't seem too eager to suggest any other alternatives. It's a nice small spot with outside seating that is a good alternative to the hipster/dive bars in the area. But it seems like they have issues with the tap system as from another review last September they had similar problems. It might be time to make an upgrade.

I love everything about Penelope. This is a beautiful hidden on 11th and Clay. It's an experience every time you stop by. Great service, better pours! The specialty cocktails are on point! Love love love!

Great happy hour!!! Atmosphere is amazing!! A group of us found this bar to pre drink before dinner and the playoffs. The place has outside seating with heat lamps, and plentiful seats at the bar inside. The happy hour menu is great and they have a big selection of liquor, beer, and wine. The service is exceptional and fun all around to go in for a drink or two.....or maybe three.

Owner reached out to me and apologized for the inconvenience caused by not being open during stated hours. I wasn't expecting it and it was really a kind gesture. Looking forward to checking it out again. Thanks!

We were looking for something in the City Center area that wasn't a dive bar and this was perfect! Happy hour is from 4-6 pm and it's the perfect stop for Thirsty Thursday because their specialty cocktails are actually $2 off! Score! We came here after work and there were already a few couples at the bar when we entered (it's a very intimate bar), so we grabbed a seat at one of the tables to the side. The drinks were amazing. We tried three of them, but if you're only having one I would definitely recommend La Kristita! We liked it because of how sweet it was (: The interior is nicely decorated and it's just a pleasant establishment that's not too pretentious. Atmosphere is very pleasant and I would recommend taking a date here for a drink! Would definitely recommend stopping by if you're around the city center!

HAPPY SUSAN'S 200th REVIEW DAY! This review is dedicated to my favorite bar in Oakland. The Back Story-- Susan walks into a bar. The monologue in her head is running full speed. She is justifying drinking alone on a random weekday, at a bar, as totally acceptable behavior. The monologue was cut short as she began chatting with bartender Johnny and owner Tung. Witty banter, breath stopping jokes, and general good times ensued. I was hooked. The Vibe-- Classy yet homey; professional yet relaxed; laid back but efficient. The atmosphere here just invites people to hang out and be themselves. This place is trendy without being pretentious and always a source of a great time. The Consumable Items-- Mixed drink heaven! (On average $6-10): Freshly squeezed, pressed, muddled and chopped fruits are combined to perfection with a vast array of alcoholic delights. There is something here for everyone. From quality wines to top quality liqueurs, it's all here on a giant wall. I challenge you to know what everything is...I'm sure you wont. Don't like the preset menu (with a bit of focus on tequila)? Don't want a classic drink? Ask Johnny Kobra--expert mixologist to whip you up something with your favorite flavors. He'll far exceed your expectations. Don't forget the Cheese Plate ($10): It is the best cheese plate deal in town. Plentiful meats and cheeses, a little cup of olives, and perfectly toasty baguette. Mmmm! Keep and eye out on their facebook for special events and updates http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/penelopeoaktown This is an Old Oakland gem you really don't want to miss!

CUTE and COZY, in that I'm-wearing-pajamas-with-lingerie-underneath way. I saddled up to the bar with two senoritas to try the famed Pisco Sour. I had to take 'er easy with this bevvie because, whoa nelly, that was strong. ::end cowboy theme now because it has nothing to do with the place:: The bartender became more of a buddy then just a drink doctor when he noticed me run up to the door and press my cheek against it, not out of drunkenness but because I thought I saw a Warrior baller walking by (their practice facility is kitty-corner to the bar...good to know if you plan on stalking Klay Thompson in the new year). I really enjoyed the friendly conversation and attentive service. And concern for my cheek. I wasn't sure I wanted to have a drink that night, both for caloric and work related considerations, but I am glad we stopped by. And I signed up for a membership at the nearby Club One gym that very evening so I hope to treat myself to more of Penelope in the future. Note: the patrons were playing some game of dice on the counter and not using it as a pickup, "notice me I'm smart" tactic as I've seen chess players do at Lukas. I like this.

Penelope has it address on 12th St. but it's entrance is on clay st. very small bar counter with just a few tables inside and some tables outside Flatscreen: sports Happy Hour: 4-6, wells (5) wines (5?) blackberry margarita (7) pour: gin & tonic(5) -strong pour blackberry margarita(7) -strong pour, fresh blackberries, buzzed after this drink. on draft: -no draft beers, just named micro bottles(5) -uber friendly barristas -hipster clientele, upscale ambience -shelf full of named hard liquor. -barrista acknowledged heavy pour pleases clientele -some sammies, cheeses available -saruno burger on site 3/1.

Excellent drinks. Cool bartenders. Yelp Drinks participant! I love this place. I used to pass it all the time on the way home without noticing it, it's a little hard to see without knowing what you're looking for. Fortunately a friend started checking in there, and I stopped by. The drinks here are a little on the pricey side (usually about $10 apiece, although I may just be used to dive bars), but Penelope is the first bar I've been to where it was worth every penny. Luckily I was able to try a few drinks for half off during the Yelp Drinks promotion, but I will have no problem coming back again and paying full price. Dan put together some of the tastiest cocktails I have ever had. And I've had a lot. A LOT. The three drinks I've tried so far are the Oaktown Heat (Hangar One Mandarin Blossom Vodka, muddled ginger, lime, a kick of habanero vodka), the Pepinos del Amor (Tequila, cucumbers, lime, habanero tequila, spiced salt rim), and the signature Penelope (Tequila, fresh beets, apples, pears, lime). The Oaktown Heat is my favorite. I'm not even a ginger fan, but it works so well in this drink. It's refreshing, has a nice bit of heat to it, and has a good amount of booze without tasting too much like it. The Pepinos del Amor is similar with tequila and a less sweet flavor, with some of the habanero heat tempered by the cucumber. Genius. Did I mention they do their own habanero infused vodka and tequila??! The bartenders are extremely cool guys that make everyone feel welcome. On Thursday nights, Rolando and his FiveTen Burger truck come by to serve up some good grub. I haven't tried Penelope's food yet, but I can't wait to. Maybe on a day off I'll try it for lunch. I think I've finally found my regular neighborhood bar. I will definitely be back!

This is a really nice bar inside and out. If it's nice out, the sitting area in front is perfect for grabbing some drinks and chatting it up with friends. The customized cocktails are amazing from what I hear. I stopped here for the Old Oakland celebration and I was quite impressed by this place. I will be back with friends in tow. Oh and it's supposedly named after Penelope Cruz...the actress.

I was excited to try this place, as it's in a neighborhood I frequent, it has good Yelp reviews and looks nice from the outside. I went with two friends, around 8 PM on a Friday night after eating in Old Oakland. It's a very very small bar. We grabbed one of the few high top tables, as the bar was full. The bartender was friendly, and seemed pretty involved with the "regulars" who were a group of extremely loud middle aged men playing dice games on the bar. We ordered some drinks - they were out of two of the beers I ordered so we settled for some lager called "Buddha" it wasn't that good, but, the bottle is shaped like Buddha so that's a novelty. The bar had beer spilled on it. It appeared to not have been cleaned up after the previous patrons, so I got beer spillage on my hands when I went to order a drink. Ugh. The decor is attractive, however, the bathroom was a wreck. Perhaps it's the Virgo in me, but, it was horrifying, and I made the mistake of turning the fluorescent light on when I went in. The bathroom hadn't been cleaned that morning. There were garbage overflowing from the trash can, long women's hairs on the ground, and urine around the floor by the toilet (it is unisex) of the toilet. I understand the latter happens in shared bathrooms, but, it was really disgusting. I was practically gagging while attempting to use the restroom. The bathroom is enough for me to never want to go back here again. I'd avoid using the bathroom here. And if you do, don't turn the lights on.

A small intimate bar with just a handful of high tables in addition to the bar seating. Our bartender, Dan, was genuine and awesome, taking great care of me and my friend from start to finish. For the cocktails, the signature selection is quite extensive with a number of more unique concoctions very much worth exploring. Being a fan of the brown stuff, I thoroughly enjoyed my Manhattan Project made with slight variations on all the classic Manhattan components and a base of Lexington bourbon. And on top of all this, we happened to drop in on a stand-up comedy night that was absolutely hilarious. Highly recommended for quality drinks and a fun experience in uptown Oakland for sure.

Hip & refreshing. Geared toward the woman professionals who are looking for a cutie pie place to grab a drink with the girls after an 8 hour day at the office. Recommended drinks: Blackberry Margarita

This place is great! I've only been here twice, but each time I have had good cocktails. When I commented to one of the bartenders that I liked Southern Comfort, he made sure to order that next time I went, even though he doesn't think it belongs there. That's some good customer service. Plus, I do think Southern Comfort is an excellent bourbon that belongs there. Long live Janice Joplin.

Great spot to grab a delicious custom made cocktail after a soak at the local springs. Really lovely host, friendly energy all the way around here. I recommend the Tamarind Sour~ Yummy & well balanced. A little (very little) out of the way from downtown & the uptown locations, so it's an after hours gem... Located on Clay St between 11th & 12th. Residents of Domain Apartments, this IS YOUR local establishment!!

Tried to come here on a Wednesday night at 10pm based on Yelp hours. Closed. To be fair though, their listed hours on the premise and website just say 4pm-Closing. Not sure how Yelp can account for it but places should abide by definite hours rather than winging it on how slow it is. I went earlier the next day around 7pm and found it to be a nice intimate place that would make a great happy hour. The features are custom cocktails and the two I tried, blackberry margarita and the Penelope (a beets and tequila based drink) were delicious.

Beets in a cocktail? Who would have thought? Not me, but once I had it, I was sold - best cocktail I've had in a very long time (tequila, fresh beets, apples, pears, and lime juice). Penelope has created a way to get your fruits, vegetables and happy hour buzz, all in one place! A few other personal favorites are: Chica Fresa: bourbon, strawberry, sweet vermouth, baked apple bitters, lime Los Pepinos del Amor: tequila, cucumbers, lime, habanero tequila, spiced salt rim And of course, the: Blackberry Margarita: tequila, fresh blackberries, lime Not to mention, it has a very homey neighborhood feel; the patrons actually talk to each other, and the bartenders treat you like a bff. And perhaps the best kept secret - Wednesday is comedy/open mic night, which is always a blast!

Great cocktails! We came for happy hour and got a discount. The bartenders were friendly and welcoming. The decor is hip and fun to look at. I recommend their cocktails, we will be back for more drinks.

this little fucking hole in the wall is amazing. I had no idea it was here until last Wednesday. they do AMAZING comedy and the drinks are to die for. I will definitely be back. convent bit slightly hidden in downtown oakland, close to the post office (behind the city center court). really friendly bartender as well. (super cute too).

Took my client here since he was quitting his job. Drinks were great, Juan the owner is cool too.

A true hidden gem in Oakland! If you live near downtown Oakland or work around the city center, you've probably passed this hidden treasure a hundred times. (located on the street level of the tall ASK building) You will always find Saigon and Johnny at the bar. This duo runs the joint and will always invite you to play a game of dice. I recommend trying Saigon's "Oaktown Heat" or Johnny's "Jali-Berry", but if you want something sweet and girlie, ask for "La Kristita." The bar serves light snacks and sandwiches, which is great for lunch or a snack before a BIG night in the town. Food in the tummy before a long night of drinking is always a good idea. I'm looking forward to the Julieta Venegas After Party at Penelope this Cinco de Mayo!

I feel like Penelope's is a bar that is always neglected. It's small, but they always make strong, great cocktails. As small as it is, it can get very busy, but doesn't get the attention it deserves.

Cool little bar attached to the Ask building. Happy hour pricing isn't bad, and the atmosphere is fairly laid back. The spot is more of after work crowd and are not open super late, but a good spot for a post work drink.

Small, friendly, fun space with great drinks! Interesting ingredients and superb execution - also, plenty of actual liquor!!! (Penelope pleasantly does not bend toward the more-juice-less-alcohol trend.) Maybe the best Manhattan ever. The Appassionatta was also lovely! Buzzed after the first round; quite happy after the second. From Penelope's Web site: "We specialize in awesomeness." We were there on a Tuesday night and the place had some solidly happy regulars. It was busy, but not packed. There was baseball on in the corner and social people throughout. There were a few board games off to a side if your group wanted additional reason to sit around and be contented. Bartender was welcoming and warm. Ample outdoor seating, for smokers or nicer weather. It's not a place I find myself in very often, but it's just a few short blocks to Swan's Marketplace, other downtown spots, or Chinatown.