Public Bar

Bar · Emeryville

Public Bar

Bar · Emeryville

1

5959 Shellmound St, Emeryville, CA 94608

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Public Bar by null
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Public Bar by null
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Public Bar by null
Public Bar by null
Public Bar by null
Public Bar by null
Public Bar by null
Public Bar by null
Public Bar by null
Public Bar by null
Public Bar by null
Public Bar by null
Public Bar by null
Public Bar by null
Public Bar by null
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Public Bar by null
Public Bar by null
Public Bar by null
Public Bar by null
Public Bar by null
Public Bar by null
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Highlights

Nestled in Public Market Emeryville, Public Bar by Blush is the spot for casual beers and bites, complemented by a lively vibe and friendly bartenders.  

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5959 Shellmound St, Emeryville, CA 94608 Get directions

$20–30

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5959 Shellmound St, Emeryville, CA 94608 Get directions

$20–30

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Last updated

Mar 6, 2025

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"The centerpiece of Public Market Emeryville has arrived: Public Bar by Blush, which also operates bars in San Jose and San Diego." - Janelle Bitker

Berkeley’s Spenger’s Fish Grotto in the East Bay Closes After 128 Years - Eater SF
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Google User Tf

Google
Cool place to have some beers and food. Good happy hour. Great friendly bartender.

Johnny

Google
The service here is great and the cocktails are excellent! Fun place to grab a beer and watch a game.

Veronica M

Google
I had a disappointing experience at this bar. I ordered a “double” mezcal negroni for $35, which turned out to be poorly made. When I politely addressed this with the bartender, he responded rudely and later called security on my friend and me, even asking them to involve the police. Despite our calm demeanor and sobriety (as I hadn’t even consumed the drink), we were treated unfairly. This was an overall terrible experience with unacceptable customer service.

Melvin Richards

Google
The bar tender serving drinks tonight was asking for the money before he served the drinks. I informed him of that and he got rude!’n and did not apologize.but wanted to call security on me…

Reynaldo Lopez del Rincon

Google
Avoid this place. Bartender had attitude and serves very water downed drinks, which were 95% ice & expensive.

Arnold Armstrong

Google
So I've never been here before and on my first trip to this food market I decided to have a drink with my girlfriend. I walk up to the bar and sit down and ask if I can eat at the bar while having lunch. Me and my gf grab our food and bring it to the bar. Twice I motion to get the bar tenders attention, twice I'm ignored as he is changing out a beer tap. Then my gf trys to get his attention and he responds rudely to us which was unexpected. As we sat and ate we decided we didn't want to order drinks. When he finally was ready to serve us we let him know that we didn't want drinks anymore and that he was kind of rude. He disregarded our comments and asked rudely for us to leave the bar. Never have I ever been treated so disrespectful and received such poor customer service at such a highly regarded eatery. Bartender/Owner was definitely having a bad day. Would not recommend patronizing this establishment.

Adam Lenz

Google
Just ordered a beer and was served by a mask less bartender who was talking over my beer while bringing it to me. After a year, I think we all know how COVID spreads by now. When I asked if he was vaccinated, the bartender got visibly upset with me. Sorry buddy, my wife is immunocompromised and I'm not drinking a risky beer. Wear a mask next time. I paid for the beer, left it on the counter and left. I love public market and have been coming here for 10 years, but I won't go to this bar again. They also charged $11 for a trummer, big ripoff, especially for mask less service.

jslure

Google
awesome bar. good to drink and enjoy with people.

Vasudha R.

Yelp
The bar in Public Market has a large variety of drinks, and they're so delicious! The bartender has great vibes and he made a custom margarita for me. I would recommend the mango and guava margarita. You can make your drink into a double (which is the size in the photo) to have an extra fun night. The lychee martini is slightly sweet, but still good, and the sangria is also tasty. This is a sports bar and they play a lot of games on the TV. The bar is smack in the middle the food court, so it's not great for a romantic date spot, but it's a relaxing place to hang out with friends. I would recommend it for a casual night out.

Maritess D.

Yelp
Drinks are too sweet and over priced. I wouldn't trust the bartenders to make anything that wasn't on the menu. It irks me when one of the bartenders (probably the main or manager) asked me and my husband if I wanted a shot. I mean asking how our drinks are would be fine too. I think he just wanted to drink himself and thinking we'd give him extra tip. But I don't mistaken freebies for good service. I also recent noticed that they have such a ridiculous gratuity notice. I could understand for unclosed checks, but for drinks over $50 or parties of 4 people and more? I've worked as a server and bartender.. it's common for a party of 6 or 8 minimum people (8 being more common), you put the minimum 18% gratuity if they're being served at a table. Their minimum is ridiculous. Not coming here. I'd rather go to Paradita across the way.

Chris W.

Yelp
Waited over 10 minutes and the bartender never even came to take my order. I think this place is understaffed and staff likely lacks customer service skills. One and done for me!

Jennifer J.

Yelp
The bartender, Todd, was so rude! He could not answer a question without being condescending. We had never been here before and we had a couple of questions about the drinks, he was rude. We were curious if we could order a mocktail for our designated driver and he was annoyed and said the slushee mix was just a base. We asked about ordering food, he was rude. We wondered if there was a way to order at the bar. He told us to get up and go order whatever we wanted. He never checked on us and did not ask if we wanted a second drink. When I told him thanks for my drink and that it was good, he gave me a head nod and walked away.

Maurice B.

Yelp
I truly enjoy going here I was there delivery driver for about 3 years and I truly enjoyed going there always in great company there and the setting is so nice

Harry S.

Yelp
Worst Bar experience. AVOID. The bartender was super rude. His attitude was, " Don't expect any service until you leave a good tip." He literally threatened us for a tip. The only thing i ordered was a soda to go. That shows bad management too, if your employees are acting like this, it means there is no check on customer service. These kind of attitudes with no customer service and bully behaviors lead to business failures.

Rhea A.

Yelp
Decided to come here on a hot Wednesday afternoon for some food and drank. The Public Bar. Bartender was SUPER nice. He was on his shit for sure. HOWEVER, he was NOT wearing his mask properly. His mask was literally below his MOUTH. As a bartender, how are you not gonna wear your mask properly when you're handling so many drinks?? Other than that, the drink was poppin. Bartender knew what he was doing (other than the mask issue.) Me and my friend got Mango Blush Margaritas and one was enough to do the job!! Not sure if I'll be back here but the drink was good.

Mary F.

Yelp
I was pleasantly surprised to see The Public Bar in the Public Market, especially since Public Market isn't fully occupied yet. There are a couple of TVs here, and even food menus! I didn't get the chance to order any food, but the option of being able to get other food from the other counters and plop yourself down for a beer, wine, or cocktail is an awesome and efficient use for this space. My partner and I happened to grab a late lunch, and once it extended into the happy hour time (3-6 pm, 9-close), we decided to grab some drinks. Plus, seeing the slushy machines... I'm a sucker for an alcoholic slushy drink! The bartender was awesome, he was manning the bar alone and was very kind to check on the various patrons on how the drinks were and if they wanted a (2nd, 3rd, ...etc) round. Plus $6 for select cocktails?! SUCH A STEAL. Drinks were strong and kinda fruity, and I'm super glad this place is here! And as always, don't drink and drive!

Elaysha J.

Yelp
I'm ecstatic about this new bar at the Public Market. I work within walking distance so I frequent the market from time to time (like once a month, let's be real- prices in there are high as giraffe ass). I digress, this bar is what's been missing from the market all along and I never even knew! Nothing gets me in the mood of buying overpriced eats more than a little libation! Plus, I'm a sucker for a classy bar, and this place is just that! They've got an awesome Malbec and decent wine list to boot. The open air feel of the Market means the bar is quite inviting and accessible. The bartender matches the easy- going feel of it all and sports highlights are playing low enough to enjoy the ambient music. You can have your cocktail along with whatever you pick for lunch and enjoy the swankiest lunch break yet, I cannot wait to end my day here with friends at the happy hour soon!

Victor G.

Yelp
The Public Bar by Blush in the Emeryville Public Market isn't the best spot to have a brew. it's very convenient. it's better than nada. they have many flatscreens to watch..... drinks: drafts, wines, cocktails, blushes....food.. brew: drakes ipa (3.5,) HH, 3-6 -not many drafts, this one is the strongest? -many bottles, can beers available. drips: -can bring drinks to other tables but what's the point?. -for me, bar is too "public" for me to repeat.

Wendy N.

Yelp
Needed to cool down on a hot day, and realized I never reviewed one of my favorite local bars - what better time than now to tell all of you they're open for everything to-go and just as good as ever! I've been going here since they opened (a few years ago???), because of the quality, selection, and amazing service and knowledge from the bartenders. They have beer, wine, liquor, specialty drinks you won't find elsewhere, and a bottled beer cooler to browse and take. The lychee blush is popular and unique but what are my favorites: Taylor makes some of the best negronis and gin martinis I've ever had. Tyler just made me a delish Jameson frozen margarita to cool off with. If you don't know what you want, tell them what you like and they'll help you figure it out. Tip: Get a double in your cocktail for a discount. Order food from one of the places in the Market, and while you wait, stop by for a to-go drink. Food and drink can be enjoyed at a handful of seating areas outside the market, a few are obvious and streetside, but if you need cooler air ask where the "courtyard" is for more seating!

Sadaf S.

Yelp
The bartender here is super friendly and personable. I didn't catch his name though. Amazing drinks and good vibes. Came here randomly waiting for my food at Jayna Gyro.

Ingrid B.

Yelp
Came by public bar for an afternoon cocktail. I needed a drink to go with my yummy wings from koja kitchen. I ordered the lychee passoinfruit slushy. It was a bit sweet but was still really good. The bartender was friendly. I'll need to try a guava margaritas next time I come by.

Adam L.

Yelp
Just ordered a beer and was served by a mask less bartender who was talking over my beer while bringing it to me. After a year, I think we all know how COVID spreads by now. When I asked if he was vaccinated, the bartender got visibly upset with me. Sorry buddy, my wife is immunocompromised and I'm not drinking a risky beer. Wear a mask next time. I paid for the beer, left it on the counter and left. I love public market and have been coming here for 10 years, but I won't go to this bar again. They also charged $11 for a trummer, big ripoff, especially for mask less service.

Sagruilla P.

Yelp
I mean, it's a bar counter inside the Public Market. The sights and sounds are that of the Public Market--a partially filled food court. It is not enclosed at all. It is such an odd place for a bar. If you get there between 3 and 6 and are in need of a drink, the prices are good. The beers on tap are few and basic, not reflective of the craft brew movement, but they have what you'd expect in any standard bar 10 years ago. The only seating is on big, bulky bar seats at the bar. It's okay for a group of two, but tricky for bigger groups of four--it's not like you can stand or wander around to mingle because you are in the middle of the food court and might bump into a stroller or someone with a tray of ramen. It is a new option for drinks after work in a super casual atmosphere.

Irene G.

Yelp
I've come here twice. The first time we bought tacos from Koja the Korean spot. This is a nice place to come and watch a game, eat and drink. We had some pizza that was brought over by one of the public market restaurants. The pizza was a good appetizer. I had a apricocktail it was ok. I preferred my husbands drink called spiced pear. It was really sweet. My friend had some kind of kiwi cocktail I tried it and it was good as well.

Michelle R.

Yelp
Happy hour.... check Tvs.... check Bar stools too low.... epic fail I felt like kindergartener sitting at the grown up table (that are over 6' tall)

Victoria E.

Yelp
Extremely rude bar tender. Heard him calling customer names. Wouldn't respond when asked a question then when asked again had a smart ass question. Take business elsewhere. Never again!

Learnee L.

Yelp
Friday night and I needed a drink. Thank god this place is in the Public Market. They have their small food menu but I brought my food from the food place next to it. Bartenders were attentive. I am not a big fan of the blush drinks... they're just full of ice. They have TV's so definitely a spot for drinks and watch sports.

Lisa W.

Yelp
Comfortable working class bar. High ceilings spot, regulars, strong drinks and comfortable environment. Bar tender and owner..good people!

Jonathan G.

Yelp
A friend lives nearby and had been trying to get us to try this location for a bit, so we finally decided to meet them there and give it a go. Public Bar is indeed that, public inside the Public Market. You can sit at the bar itself or at group tables a few feet off the actual bar. There are TVs on the wall so while you are chatting (or if solo), you can find something to watch or glance at. Public Bar's menu also includes food, or you can bring your own. And there are some happy hour offerings to be had as well. We ordered pizza and while tasty, it was far too thin. It was delivered by someone not Public Bar though, so this can't be attributed to them. The ambiance was pretty cool. You can people watch if you want as there is moderate foot traffic going by, thankfully not so much that it becomes an annoyance. As far as the drinks go, they were decently tasty. The bartender (this night at least) was very precise though. Maybe it was the tiny dome cameras above the bar that had him worried, or who knows. But he was very meticulous about his measurements, he didn't have a seasoned bartender's "easiness" about him. So "heavy pours" will never be a label placed on this bar, imo. Otherwise decent little joint, and the proximity of various foods makes it easy to have your favorite eats with your drinks and not get in over your head.

Veronica M.

Yelp
Came here for the first time. Ordered a cocktail that came with a fly in it. Was not offered any compensation. Would never go back to the bar in the market place.

Mr C.

Yelp
Tried few drinks aka 3. All weak, almost virgin tasting. Nothing worse then getting excited about good drink description and then getting watered down garbage. Charge me more but at least fix a proper drink. Never coming back again.

Cindy W.

Yelp
Came here last Friday. Missed the happy hour by a hair. Darn it! Clean bar top with 3 TVs. I noticed that they have a lot of the top shelve liquors. I ordered a Hendrix tonic and loved that they have some nice food options. They have also a great bottled beer section at the end that makes getting a beer in and out very fast. It's a great addition to the newly revamped Public Market.

Avanit K.

Yelp
5 stars everytime jus for good service and quality drinks. Even on busy weekends the tenders are quick and never fail at quality.

Elisabeth R.

Yelp
It had such potential but the service was lacking. The guys initially seemed so nice but ended up being super indifferent & when they messed up on something they were unapologetic and giving attitude. Basically we had come in initially because we wanted to play with the games and they told us we couldn't play past 9. @9:30 a couple came by and they let them play. When we asked why they allowed them to play and not us they said "oh it was a misunderstanding, you can play for the next 10 min" and then walked away". It was super disappointing and left you with a bad feeling.

Denise T.

Yelp
Everything was fun and games until we got the bill. The bartender being completely amicable and fun (prob tipsy already when we for there) asked if we wanted shots -- I replied with sure let's do it. He pours 3 shots and he drinks one himself . We do this twice! Bartender, just like previous people have mentioned, not wearing his mask,( it's right below his chin) pours us another shot. And although he's fun and easy to talk to -- the bill reflected we had to pay for his shots. I'm sorry I didn't know we had to pay for you to get drunk on the job at YOUR bar. I really don't think the bartender should charge us for the shots he took when HE offered himself to take a shot. So just be careful -- pay for YOUR drinks and NOT his. Per his saying don't make "bad decisions"

Jacob N.

Yelp
Staying at the nearby hotel with the recent power outages, and glad to find this little food court. Stopped by the bar, and honestly, my god, what is with the inconsistent bar service, and it just rubbed us the wrong way. We were in around lunch, and there was a decent bustle at the bar, two girls were working. One with darker hair, one with lighter. We sat down on the longer side of the bar, where it wasn't as crowded. The lighter haired girl was on our side, and when we sat down, greeted promptly, told she would be right back. 15 minutes later, she is still talking to this one couple. We understand this is a service industry, and you want friendly bartenders, but it was clear that she was focusing on this one tab, perhaps for better tips? On the other side, I saw the other dark haired girl help 3-4 parties, glancing at us a few times. When she wrapped up on her end, she ran over to us, apologizing for the wait and taking our order, before running back to her end. What really did it for us, why we were writing this review at all, is because we heard the lighter haired girl complaining to the darker one that it was so slow, and she didn't even have to be here. We could even hear her complaining about customers. We were shocked that she said that, because while it wasn't crazy by any means, that darker haired girl hadn't stopped moving around, making drinks, cleaning tables, etc. She was just chatting it up with tables that had bigger tabs, and by the time she noticed any of the smaller tables, the darker haired girl was already making rounds. Word of advice, if you talk loud enough, we can hear you!! And we were not the only table that noticed. We left to see a movie, and came back for dinner, and noticed that another dark haired girl had come to the bar, and the difference was astounding. The bar was now packed, but both girls were getting to everyone with smiles, laughter, and just a better energy. It was so clear that these two work together really well, and they were attracting a crowd to watch the Packers game. 4/10 lunch service, 9/10 dinner.

Max H.

Yelp
This is by far the worst bar experience I have had n a very long time(and I go to a new bar once or twice a week). I recognize this bar is brand new and I am going to forgive them on a lot of things as I am sure they are figuring things out but the service I had here this evening was cold and totally inhospitable. I first got approached by the bald guy who seemed nice and attentive and then preceded to ignore me entirely. There were two bartenders on and 6-7 patrons sitting at the bar. After being ignored by him I was then ignored by the guy in the backwards hat. To his credit, he was probably under the assumption I was being helped. But he was facing the tv's and on his phone the majority of time I was there=. When the bald guy finally came over he said what kind of beer do you want? No "thanks for waiting" or anything like that. I ordered a glass of house white wine from the happy hour menu which was then poured promptly. It was served way too cold(even for white wine) but they are still figuring things out I am sure so I can get over it. He then comes back a couple minutes later and asked for a credit card to keep a tab open. Did he think I was going to drink and leave? And it wasn't so much that he asked; it was the way in which he came over so suddenly and asked as if he was getting ready to accuse me of something. I have never felt so unwelcome. After finishing my wine I was trying to catch the bartender to get my check which also took far too long for how slow it was. After I finally got my bartender's attention the cool asian dude asked me If I had been helped. It was a little too late but I appreciate that he asked(the only reason there is a second star). When I got the check I was charged for a glass of wine that was $9.83. The happy hour menu said $5. I still tipped on it because it is the right thing to do. I didn't want to argue price with the bartender who clearly had nothing on his mind but wanting to go home. I wish these guys the best of luck. Maybe my expectations were just too high for a food court bar.

Matt H.

Yelp
Stopped for a drink after work because I was getting a taco next door. I was looking for wine and they had a decent list. I wasn't familiar with one wine and the guy offered a small taste. Turned out to be great so I got that. Service was friendly, competent, and decent. Love the proximity to the other food choices in thee food court. I'm for sure gonna come back

Alan H.

Yelp
Stopped by for a drink after work and ended up staying longer than originally expected. Drinks and service were great and the Stella pizza was delicious. Will definitely be back.

Ray R.

Yelp
The food and service were great! Not to mention the vibe was awesome! Definitely excited for this new place! Go to weekend spot!

Falana H.

Yelp
This bar is right in the heart of public market. It an open and inviting feel to it. The bartenders are very friendly and quick to serve. Needless to say I had my share of drinks and enjoyed my evening. Food surrounds you but if you don't want to leave your table you can order pizza right from the bar and have it served to you.

Anthony T.

Yelp
If you could define an area of the Emeryville Public Market that is the most lively, Public Bar would definitely be it. Ample seating, a great bar selection including spirits, wine and dedicated refrigeration for a huge multitude of bottled beers (there's just so many, I feel like I walked into a BevMo!). Three flat screen TVs headline the lively vibe featuring the local/marquee sports games and the service and conversation of the staff keep me coming back to this great establishment. Thanks to Tran, Amy and Tyler for making me and my group feel welcome every Sunday!

Jess W.

Yelp
Tyler makes the best and stiff dirty martinis in da bay! Holler at him, he gets it right all the time. And if he doesn't he'll tell you a joke and make it right ! It's about time there is a kick ass bar with happy hour at 3pm..

Colleen G.

Yelp
Came here for happy hour and I'm gonna come back! My bar tender Taylor was the best and he suggested a drink that is now on my favorites list. Can't wait to bring friends here to watch a game and catch happy hour.

Lori S.

Yelp
I travel with my job and I'm in the Bay Area several times a year. So happy that I discovered Public Bar. The vibe is great and the bartenders know their craft! They're easygoing, professional and I've CONSISTENTLY had excellent service. Check them out the next time you're at the Public Market!

Anthony Z.

Yelp
Great drinks, good atmosphere and the only place that serves alcohol in the square. Good look modern decor. Loving this new spot

Nick L.

Yelp
Wow! Super cool spot to grab drinks, with great service & TV's too! Will be back for sure, for both the action and the drinks too!