Wunderbar

Bar · San Mateo

Wunderbar

Bar · San Mateo

2

310 Baldwin Ave, San Mateo, CA 94401

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Highlights

Wunderbar is a hidden speakeasy beneath Wursthall, offering tarot-inspired cocktails and a whimsical ambiance, complete with free popcorn and great service.  

Featured in Eater
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310 Baldwin Ave, San Mateo, CA 94401 Get directions

wunderbarsm.com
@wunderbarsm

$20–30

Reserve

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310 Baldwin Ave, San Mateo, CA 94401 Get directions

wunderbarsm.com
@wunderbarsm

$20–30

Reserve

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reservations

Last updated

Jul 10, 2025

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@eater

"The San Francisco Chronicle has a first look inside Wunderbar, a new reservation-only bar with a menu that’s printed on tarot-inspired cards." - Lauren Saria

Is Dungeness Crab Available in the Bay Area Yet? - Eater SF
View Postcard for Wunderbar
@eater

"You’ll need reservations to step down into Wunderbar, the tarot card-inspired cocktail bar located in the basement of downtown San Mateo restaurant Wursthall, the Chronicle reports." - Becky Duffett

New Restaurant Openings in the San Francisco Bay Area - Eater SF
View Postcard for Wunderbar

mars gemini

Google
Red as rose $15 🌹🍸 4 people group, total to be 7 drinks at around $120 out the door. Great speakeasy that has secret door behind bookshelves. I would absolutely come back!!!

Ben Jams

Google
Reservations required! This speakeasy is a hidden gem underneath some hot dog shop. A great Alice in Wonderland-themed experience, the vibes are incredible and the decorations are so fun, unique, and classy. To get there, go inside the shop towards the back and then down the stairs. Through the curtains will be a hidden bookcase door which is just so cool. It also isn't overbooked or crowded too which is a huge plus. You get your own space in a finely crafted atmosphere. There's even a self server popcorn machine! Drinks: Hit and miss (Get the more casual, fruity ones) Personally i love spirit forward drinks but virtually all of them were either creatively very odd tasting, or just average at best. Service was polite and friendly. Although I wish we knew they were closing early because at like... 10pm we just suddently got the bill when I think the online time said 1130. Drinks: 6/10 Atmosphere: 11/10 Service: 8/10 Value: 7/10

Katya Lohngoen

Google
Follow the White Rabbits 🐇 to this cute little spot. We had the best time with William as our server. He was super accommodating for both of us that were non-alcoholic drinkers and also just really funny and sweet to interact with. You might catch him upstairs at Wursthall but he was one of our highlights!! The drinks we enjoyed were the Lost at Sea 🌊 The Frog Prince 🐸 👑 Sidewinders Fang 🍹 Virgin Penecillin 💊 Virgin Wise Woman 👩🏻

Paul Wylie

Google
Cute, intimate speakeasy. All drinks were very good. Given the environment and all, I did expect the presentation of the drinks to be a bit more extravagant, but they were certainly all very delicious. Also the free popcorn is amazing!

T V

Google
Behold, a speakeasy that's quite unique, With cocktails that are nothing but chic, Their drinks, a blend of art and science, Are worth a visit, I say with confidence. The ambiance is dark and alluring, A place where secrets are worth securing, The staff, skilled and always polite, Makes one feel welcome, be it day or night. But what truly sets this place apart, Is the popcorn that's free from the start, A perfect treat, salty and sweet, It makes every drink taste quite neat. So if you seek a spot to unwind, This speakeasy is just what you'll find, With cocktails that will lift your spirits high, And popcorn that will make you sigh.

Raphael Tse

Google
We love coming to Wunderbar, and whenever we bring friends here, they love it too, and we have a blast. Kiernan is always an incredible host from the moment we walk through the door. He is warm, fun and thoughtful. He knows his drinks and delivers a phenomenal level of service and sets a high bar - not just for Wunderbar, but for all high-end cocktail establishments. All the bartenders are fantastic, from Selina, to Andrew, to Brandon. The drinks are always on point. And of course, the endless supply of warm buttery popcorn is a great bonus!

Wei-Ai Tai

Google
A very cool, hidden gem in downtown San Mateo. Follow the white rabbit downstairs and you’ll find the entrance to the bar behind the book case. Wide selection of craft cocktails that are delicious, although it takes some time for them to make each drink. Reservations only through Tock.

Yusi

Google
Amazing place - great vibe good drinks. Highly recommended

Lisa T.

Yelp
It's a really cool hidden bar under Wursthall. I would recommend for a girls night or date night. I think it can get kinda loud. If you prefer a quieter time, I recommend coming before 8pm. You need reservations! Follow the rabbit!

Grey R.

Yelp
Wunderbar San Mateo CA Thur 11/14/24 ETL Tech Invite: Eat, Talk, Laugh! Accelerate your AI! Alluxio Happy Hour downtown! Underground cocktail bar under Wursthall! © What a lively night in Downtown San Mateo! Thank you Wunderbar for providing your space for this terrific event! Networking, happy hour, and a short series of lightning talks as we all learn about optimizing your data stack for efficient and reliable data pipelines! This event was hosted by Alluxio, an AI Acceleration platform to empower AI builders with a fast, scalable & reliable compute & data infrastructure. Doors opened at 5pm! Here's the abridged agenda: - 5:00pm: Check-in, grab a snack and mingle! - 5:30pm: 3 lightning talks and open Q&A - 6:30pm: More mingling, food and drinks! Wunderbar opened in the basement of San Mateo's Wursthall beer garden in the Fall of '21. It was slated to open a couple of months before the pandemic hit, so the team had to shift gears a bit and had extra time to test cocktail recipes! It's a sort of an underground cocktail bar inspired by Brothers Grimm fairy tales! This is not a hidden speakeasy, no! This means that classic cocktails like Old Fashioned will be whipped up into Wunderbar-original with a twist, one made with bourbon and another with rye whiskey, which I prefer of course! This cocktail lounge is reservation-only, but we had a private event & entire space to ourselves! The venue is pretty small, so it's really easy to meet new people & mingle! I got to meet developers from Meta, Expedia, Walmart, Comcast & Uber who use Alluxio technology and talk about their work! Prost! * King's daughter, youngest, Open the door. Hast thou forgotten Thy promises made At the fountain so clear 'Neath the lime-tree's shade? King's daughter, youngest. Open the door! * Babey be my fantasy, Holding back nothing. Are we agreed? What this is for? Be my fantasy, Be my everything. We don't need, Anything more! [ Review #813 w 3 pics Jan 11, 2025 ] Prost! @Wunderbar underground Wursthall San Mateo CA Thur 11/14/24

Melzie C.

Yelp
Love the wunderbar. It's the only true speakeasy in the area. I'm a bit disappointed that kingfish didn't find a way to keep their speakeasy open but that's another story for another day lol. Love that it's dark. Love the 1920's era lighting and the uniforms of the barkeepers. Love the cards/menu and that the barkeepers remember the stuff from older seasons so when I want that one drink with the dill on it, they can make it. The only things I'd work on is the seats in the little tables and purse hooks. Nowhere to place/hang a purse is awkward and then the chairs have no sides/back so you kinda have to have perfect posture or hunch over the table (both are awkward lol). It's also awkward sitting up high when everyone else is lower and keep that in mind ladies if you made the mistake of wearing a skirt. Otherwise, we love this little spot and try to come every month or so.

Annabelle R.

Yelp
The place seemed to be fully booked on Valentine's Day, but they fit us in as a walk-in party of 2 in the early evening. Loved all the bunny decor, including that on the shelves of the "secret door" on the lower level of Wursthall. But the entire Alice in Wonderland themed setup inside the speakeasy was lovely, and along with the dim lighting, set the mood this past Friday. We enjoyed free self-serve popcorn from their popcorn machine near the bar, as we browsed the cocktail menu creatively designed as tarot cards. We ended up getting the northern lights which was like an old fashioned with herbs, and the temple gate, a nice twist on the french 75, a delightful somewhat fruity concoction with a balanced blend of gin and sparkling wine, both beverages with a decent amount of alcohol that crept up on us during our visit. The drinks were great, but we also appreciated the charming and inviting atmosphere, and the wonderful service we received, as well as them accommodating us without a reservation. Very cool spot, especially for date night :)

Jen F.

Yelp
Hidden beneath Wursthall, Wunderbar feels like stepping into a magical wonderland. The whimsical theme makes it a delightful escape, perfect for a lively girls' night out or a cozy date night. We were greeted warmly by the staff and invited to help ourselves to freshly popped popcorn. We ordered the Sidewinder's Fang and Northern Lights, both of which were beautifully crafted and strong. Each drink felt like its own little masterpiece, showcasing the bartenders' expertise. Two drinks each were just the right amount for us to enjoy the evening without feeling overwhelmed. The service was exceptional...very friendly, attentive, and genuine, which made the experience even better. Wunderbar is a must-visit for anyone looking for a mix of creativity and exciting cocktails. We're already planning our next visit!

Alex J.

Yelp
Looking for a bar to wow a date or friends? This is the place. The only downside is that it is reservation only. To get to Wunderbar...walk into Wursthall and head to the bathrooms and look behind the drapes. Rub the glowing bunny's stomach and the door will open. We have reserved the Nook, lounge, and the bar and so far the bar is our favorite spot to go. The nook is semi-private and all-dark. It was very hard to see the actual cool decorations on the wall or even the menu in the nook. The lounge is good because it is close to the (FREE) popcorn and you get to see all of the decorations on the wall. The bar was interesting to sit at because you could talk to the bartender and based on your favorite flavors, the bartender can semi-customize your drink (or even revive some old cocktails). My favorite cocktail is the dream catcher. It goes down so easily and is so delicious. It may not be ube forward, but it tastes damn good. A close second has to be the morning after (which happens to be a "featured cocktail" so I am unsure how long it will be on the menu. The other drinks that I have tried are all very well balanced and are yummy.

Maddie W.

Yelp
Loved this speakeasy!! It's definitely cozy in there and the drinks are unique. Their menu features classic drinks and the backside (darker side) is their unique twist. Servers are super friendly and checked in often to make sure we were okay. It's reservations only! They have free popcorn as a snack! It can get a little hot /stuffy since there isn't strong AC down there. I got the dreamcatcher which is like an ube flavored espresso martini. Super smooth and tasted very consistent throughout. My bf got the holy water and it was smooth and unique with shiso. I'd definitely come back, this place is worth checking out and the vibes are lively!

Verde N.

Yelp
Very cool spot. We followed the rabbits into the secret passage and walked into a beautiful bar. The drinks were great variations of classics and the vibe was relaxed and groovy. Great place for a date.

Andrew S.

Yelp
Would would have thought there was a speakeasy in the basement of a biergarten, what a trip haha. Cozy speakeasy made me feel at home and the witchy/astrological theme was a delightful touch. The bartenders were friendly and knowledgeable, crafting amazing cocktails. It was fun that they had 2 versions of classic drinks, refer to the pictures attached! The "Lost at Sea" pandan cocktail and the "Ube Espresso Martini" were my favorites! The unlimited self-serve complimentary popcorn was a fun surprise, and the vintage decor added to the overall charm. Hidden gem I will be returning to.

Alan L.

Yelp
A wonderful speak easy bar hidden beneath Wurst Hall that has a great ambience! The entrance is located behind a bookshelf that doubles as a hidden door, and the drinks menu is featured as a series of tarot cards. All of the drinks we tried were their specialty items, and they did not disappoint! The dreamcatcher was probably our favourite out of the bunch but the sidewinder's fangs was good too! Best of all, they have a small popcorn machine where you can get free unlimited popcorn to snack on with your drinks. Be sure to make a reservation well in advance though, as it usually gets booked out a week ahead of time.

Jessica M.

Yelp
Cozy speakeasy! Reservations only! I believe the max party size is 5. Located under Wursthall, this place serves up traditional cocktails as well as cocktails with a twist. Came here 3 times within the span of a month because it was that good! Free popcorn for those of us with munchies are a nice touch. The list of cocktails on their website was outdated, so YMMV on what's available. I really wanted to try a pandan cocktail that I saw, but it had been off their list for some time. I've gotten the ube drink every time, and it goes down oh so smoothly. Can't taste much alcohol, but maybe that's a good thing. I've also gotten the temple gate and bengal tiger. Temple gate is nice a refreshing. Bengal tiger comes in a cute rabbit mug, heavy on the anise seasoning, but also pretty heavy on the alcohol. Super dim in here though. Wouldn't recommend the private reservation spot, as there is even less lighting.

Rachel H.

Yelp
I am glad I had the opportunity to visit this place. A key takeaway is to make a reservation in advance. During my first visit, I didn't make a reservation and ended up waiting for two hours without being able to join. However, after making a reservation for my subsequent visit, the experience was spectacular. The music, vibe, service, and cocktails were all exceptional. We ordered Holy Water, Dream Catcher, and Manhattan - all spectacular. A hint of grapefruit oil on top of Holy Water was a hit, and Dream Catcher with Vodka instead of Tequila was terrific. I would also love to revisit this place for other occasions - eat something before coming in, or you can always enjoy food afterward.

Karen M.

Yelp
Cozy speakeasy located in a basement. Our friends who live nearby made reservations since it's really hard to find a spot there--reservations are definitely required. We were lucky they found availability when we were visiting for the weekend. I really enjoyed the decor; it has an esoteric charm and interesting cocktail options. Our party of five was seated in their Nook, a sort of reserved area that left our group very comfy. This might sound like a comment from an oldie (but hey, we're not in our 20s anymore), but I really appreciate atmospheres where you can actually talk with your party, even with music playing. Our party ordered the Old Fashioned, a Martini, El Lobo, and Lost at Sea, and everyone was happy with their choices. Overall, it's a really nice place, and we enjoyed our time there!

Allan N.

Yelp
Fantastic speakeasy that really takes down the rabbit-hole into a new world. I absolutely loved the theme, the decor and the comfortable environment. The waiter was really great too in answering our many questions and handling some of our requests for mocktail versions of some of the cocktails. All the cocktails and mocktails our table ordered were done really well. I ordered the Lost at Sea and really enjoyed it - i think using a more exotic and tropical flavour like pandan in a rum-based drink was a great idea.

Katarina R.

Yelp
I've been here a few times now! I definitely advise making a reservation about a week or two in advance. I don't believe they take walk ins (I could be wrong). I love the craft cocktails and overall ambiance of this speakeasy. The bartenders definitely take their time with the drinks, which is great. They also have a little self serving popcorn machine to snack on if you please. It does tend to get a bit busy so service can be a bit iffy at times! But definitely come and stay for the vibes.

Andrew P.

Yelp
It's been so long since I've been to a speakeasy of this caliber, and Wunderbar did not disappoint! The cocktails, either classic or inventive by the team, are strong and flavorful, with exceptional service. It is a bit dark inside, so reading the specialty (black) menu will be difficult. But if you tell your server the type of drinks you like, they will easily give you a great recommendation.

Joseph N.

Yelp
Second time here. Love this bar. Drinks are superb. My favorite ones are the unique ones (they put their spin on it) or the complex ones where you can taste the flavor nuances. Every drink is delicious and executed perfectly here -- you can't go wrong. Great vibe. Charming decor and dim, lively speakeasy feel. Not too loud. Mix of tables and two cozy couches -- and we were lucky to get the couches this time. Very fun. This time we got: Sidewinder's Fang -- Yummy mix of rums with a passion fruit component Shapeshifter -- Off the menu now, but my favorite. Gin based with basil eau de vie, passion fruit, and yuzu Lost at Sea -- Their tasty rendition of a tiki bar drink. Marvelous mug too Frog Prince -- A delicious, unique mezcal drink with a green tea component Also tried El Lobo (delicious drink with horchata component) and several others in the past. If I had a higher tolerance I would just sit here and try drinks all day. I love the free, buttery popcorn (despite my partner not being a popcorn-eater) from the vintage-looking popcorn maker. Very cool! Staff are always amazing; always friendly and knowledgeable. They're a highlight of this bar, along with the fantastic drinks. This is a hidden gem. Highly recommended!

Anju J.

Yelp
Husband and I love going here when we can find childcare. Reservations can be hard to get , however planning about ~1-2weeks ahead works well. The bartenders have great attitude. Love how clear the drink descriptions and serveware are. Popcorn FTW

Mikayla M.

Yelp
Checked out this speakeasy with one of my friends recently and wow what a great find! It's directly under Wursthall (you just follow the rabbit and you'll find Wunderbar). You do have to make a reservation before coming. I loved the aesthetic and ambiance of this place. Their cocktail menu is so fun AND you can grab complimentary buttered popcorn. I ordered the lost at sea cocktail which had pandan in it - it was pretty good and the pandan was a great addition. My friend got the french 75 which was also good. I'll definitely be back -- this was such a fun bar!

Jesse V.

Yelp
Wunderbar is the most popular speakeasy bar in San Mateo. The fact that the drinks are delicious and the interior decor is one-of-a-kind and fun, explains why reservations are mandatory. Sometimes reservations could be booked over a week in advanced. This place taught me how buttery, all-you-can-eat, popcorn pairs perfectly with cocktails. Bartenders and servers are also friendly and attentive. If you are from the San Mateo area, and you haven't went to Wunderbar yet, you a missing out.

Michelle L.

Yelp
Visited Wunderbar for the first time and was very intrigued by their menu. They offer classic renditions of popular drinks listed on "white cards" and their unique take on those classic drinks on the reverse side "black cards." I took my mother to her first speakeasy experience as there aren't many experiences close to San Mateo. She enjoyed their Margarita which was strong yet balanced drink. I spoke with the bartender (I'm sorry I missed his name) about my preferences. I was interested in the Sidewinder, however not a huge fan of rum and asked for a gin option. He recommended the off menu drink, Shapeshifter. It was delightful and exactly what I was looking for. After enjoying the Shapeshifter with complimentary popcorn, I was curious about the Sidewinder and ended up ordering it as my second drink. I preferred the Shapeshifter, but it was still a nice drink. I would recommend it to anyone who wouldn't mind rum as the main spirit. We enjoyed the bar experience and would highly recommend this place for groups under 4 as it is a small intimate space. I plan to take more friends and family to Wunderbar as it's a nice local speakeasy.

Valerie M.

Yelp
Checked in at this place for a double date. Couldn't think of a better bar than this. Apparently the tarot cards (their featured drinks) have been updated quite a bit. There is always something new. This time they even made something up for my special request. It was a nice surprise! The service was super attentive. He checked on me a couple times and made sure I liked my drink. We had a great time. Like always. We constantly try to grab some slots at prime time. It's really not that easy. Already thinking about going back for Chinese New Year time.

Ben H.

Yelp
Reservations required! This speakeasy is a hidden gem underneath some hot dog shop. A great Alice in Wonderland-themed experience, the vibes are incredible and the decorations are so fun, unique, and classy. To get there, go inside the shop towards the back and then down the stairs. Through the curtains will be a hidden bookcase door which is just so cool. It also isn't overbooked or crowded too which is a huge plus. You get your own space in a finely crafted atmosphere. There's even a self server popcorn machine! Drinks: Hit and miss (Get the more casual, fruity ones) Personally i love spirit forward drinks but virtually all of them were either creatively very odd tasting, or just average at best. Service was polite and friendly. Although I wish we knew they were closing early because at like... 10pm we just suddently got the bill when I think the online time said 1130. Drinks: 6/10 Atmosphere: 11/10 Service: 8/10 Value: 7/10

Tim Y.

Yelp
My first review of 2024! This place is awesome! It's located under Wursthall at the corner of Baldwin and North B Street. Plan ahead and book a reservation early. Their online system opens up about a month out. I've tried many times to get reservations even a few weeks ahead but they are always booked up. You walk through Wursthall and down the stairs in the back to find a small "lobby" behind velvet curtains. From there you'll need to figure out how to get into the hidden bar. The bar was dimly lit with light music playing in the background. An old buddy and I met up recently to catch up. We chanced it with a walk-in at around 6:30PM. The place was fully booked and packed but for a party of 2 the host said he could squeeze us in for a 30 minute window. It was just enough time for one drink at a side table. On the table was a menu deck with traditional cocktails on the white side and their own spin on the drink on the back of that card in black. There was also a menu sheet with an extensive list of whiskeys, bourbons, and other spirits. I love old fashioneds so was naturally drawn to their version called the "El Lobo" - bourbon, horchata, cane, mole, and bitters. Mole in the drink concerned me a bit but the host assured me it wasn't a glob of traditional mole and that the drink was great. He was absolutely right! I loved the cinnamon flavor from the horchata mixed with the bourbon. They sprinkled a few pieces of Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal too. This was one of the best old fashioneds I've ever had! I can't wait to come back with some friends next time to have the El Lobo again along with some of their other drinks!

Katie M.

Yelp
If you are looking for a magical escape in the Peninsula, you have come to the right place - a true hidden gem that capture the essence of whimsy. To enter, you follow the white rabbit and the journey begins with a beautifully decorated entrance that masquerades as a bookshelf. It's like stepping into a storybook, and the attention to detail is enchanting. Reservation is a must for this place, adding an air of exclusivity to your visit. Their menu unfolds like a deck of tarot cards - each page is a visual feast, and deciding on a drink becomes a delightful exploration. Whether you are into classic cocktails or daring, innovative blends, this speakeasy has something to delight every palate. This place is an experience that will leave you with a smile and a longing to return to this enchanting haven.

Melanie B.

Yelp
LOVE WUNDERBAR!! Wtf..I'm super impressed. Complimentary popcorn, the private space and the whimsical vibes! I ordered two drinks: Lost at Sea and an Ube Espresso Martini. Both DELICIOUS. I also got a bit tipsy after my second drink. Since they are reservation only, I recommend booking in advance. It took a couple months to get a Saturday seating. The service is also incredibly quick and attentive. I'd love to come again soon.

Jenny N.

Yelp
Located in the back of a hot dog restaurant, follow the white rabbit down the stairs to look for the entrance of a speakeasy. The atmosphere in here is absolute immaculate with a witchy/ astrological theme to the drink. You have your white tarot cards as classic cocktails & black tarot cards with an innovative twist. It gets booked up pretty fast but this is definitely one of the coolest bars to visit in the peninsula! Highlights: lost at sea: a pandan cocktail served in a lion cup old fashioned: they use really good bourbon for their drink it's actually a steal definitely one of the best that I've had Tip: there's drawings of what type of glass each drink is served in if you want any cute aesthetic cups for photo ops! Service is AMAZING. Loved the bartenders

Thanh T.

Yelp
Couldnt get a reservation so we came right when they opened to see if they had any walkin availability and we were lucky and got a table! Our server was super nice especially when we did a little off menu ordering! He was really great with drink knowledge and recommendations. The drinks themselves were great! I wish I could try the whole menu but my tolerance is nowhere near that high. The vibe and decorations are also fun. Plus they have a free popcorn machine! Already have plans to come back!

Nic P.

Yelp
Went here with my partner to celebrate and what an awesome experience it was. Gotta find the secret entrance in the back of the hotdog restaurant. Follow the white rabbit! The drinks were extremely tasty. They have classic cocktails as well as riffs of the classics. I like to try new things so I tried the El Lobo and Lone at Sea. Both I would 10/10 recommend. El Lobo has whiskey and horchata. It has a clarified cocktail vibe so if that's your jam, definitely give it a try. The Lone at Sea was a tiki style Rum based cocktail which was the perfect end to my drink line up since we had reservations for bbq after but I wouldn't mind just heading upstairs for some brats and beer. My partner was recommend the shapeshifter by our waiter. It's a Gin based cocktail with passion fruit. Refreshing and citrus forward which definitely captured her heart. Great for this time of year since we are entering the summer. Before coming here, do make a reservation because it was busy and the area is cozy. I appreciate the reservation system though and it's not a bunch of people standing crowding the bar area wanting a drink. Very pleasant experience!

Matt C.

Yelp
Psst. Listen here, see. This is a speakeasy. It's secret. Nobody can know it exists. Now follow the white rabbit. Oh--just three things: You'll need to make reservations on Instagram about two weeks in advance. And we're randomly closed some days. And most important, like all super cool bars this shit shuts down at 11pm stat, no exceptions, lights on, GTFO or we're calling the cops, you scumbags! WTF dudes? I actually like what's going on behind the curtains. Cool vibes. Atmospheric presentation. It's small, quaint, intimate. Bartenders know their shit. Great old-fashioned. Solid bizarro inverted old-fashioned. They serve Booker's, which says to me somebody knows what's up. There's an old-timey popcorn maker. You can hear the person next to you because bullshit is not playing at max volume. Don't get me wrong because I like bullshit at max volume--just not when I'm trying to have conversations. Also, Wursthall is literally upstairs and it's still pretty good despite the fact that Kenji fled to Seattle to paint his nails and be a hipster bitch. I'm not mad, Kenji. Okay, I'm mad. Come back, you traitor. But I can't suffer the pretentiousness, my dudes. Barrel Bistro is walking distance and they got a better smoked old-fashioned, no Willy Wonka golden ticket required. It's San Mateo, not Beverly Hills or New York. I'm clinking glasses with Silicon Valley douchebags. Oh, you work for Google or Apple? Motherfucker, who doesn't up here? Why do I gotta wait two weeks because you designed the charge mechanism on Magic Mouse. Bitch--I'm turning that thing upside-down to charge. How'm I supposed to use it, genius? Steve Jobs would be ashamed of your ass. Fuck you--not toasting anything with you. Go back to San Jose. You close at 11? Guys, you gotta be the change you wish to see in the world, and all that crap. I can hear the voice whispering, if you stay open until 2am like a normal non-suburban-make-reservations-on-instagram-so-called-speakeasy-bullshit-bar, they will come. That voice is super passive-aggressive, sorry. Anyway, all of this to say, conceptually awesome, great drinks, but this place really has to stop with the pretentious elitism coupled with dry mormon town schedules. It's on the verge of being the go-to bar in San Mateo, but they seem to be doing everything in their power to make that impossible.

Annie H.

Yelp
Our friends told us there is this cool speakeasy underground in San Mateo so we went to see if we could get lucky without a reservation. Going down to the entrance felt like an Alice in Wonderland theme. It's currently decorated for Halloween and the cocktails are perfectly blended and creative. I would definitely return to try out the other drinks!

Joanna H.

Yelp
I never knew such a cool speakeasy existed in downtown San Mateo. It is reservation- only on most nights (if not all nights). So if you plan to go, make a reservation on Tock in advance because they do run out of resys especially on the weekend. Check-in at Wursthall and follow the white rabbit down to the speakeasy. Wave at the lit white rabbit and the door will open automatically. As it is a speakeasy, it is pretty dim in there. I reserved the nook for a party of 4 and it is especially dark in the nook (sort of like a little cave room). There is free, unlimited popcorn which is a plus! Highly recommend making a reservation to check out this speakeasy!

Jimmie Z.

Yelp
The only underground speakeasy in San Mateo. Very interesting place and fun to discover with friends. It's underneath Wursthall. The environment is cool and the drink menu is different than other places. They have a theme and the drinks are all very intriguing. It's worth checking out if you have never been before.

Jonathan C.

Yelp
tl;dr speakeasy bar with a nice ambience, but drinks were not too memorable Cute ambience, located in the basement of Wursthall. "Follow the white rabbit" to get to the bar. Reservations only. Small space so wouldn't come for parties larger than 4-5. Nice place for dates. No food available, but they do have complimentary popcorn, which is a nice touch. In addition to a spirits/beer/wine list, they have their cocktails on tarot cards with classics on the white side and their interpretation on the dark side ($15). They also have a few mocktails ($8) off-menu and can also make some of the drinks alcohol free. Tried a few drinks including El lobo (old fashioned twist), frog prince (margarita twist), and doc (Manhattan twist). The doc was the most spirit forward. I was intrigued by the ingredient list, but to be honest, the drinks weren't too memorable and not that much of a twist from the original cocktails. Overall, glad I came to experience the ambience, but wouldn't come back for the drinks.

Shay M.

Yelp
I liked the vibes inside and the whole idea of a speakeasy. It was well decorated with lots of cool knickknacks but I thought the lighting was a bit too bright for the seats on the side. I also thought the music selection was too upbeat radio-hits and didn't match the chill vibeyness of the place. Drinks were yummy and I appreciate the popcorn and cool menu.

Cindy N.

Yelp
Such a cute speakeasy bar in downtown San Mateo! We had so much fun with our date here and enjoyed all the cocktails we tried - which were a lot lol it's a very intimate bar and they only do reservations so be sure to make a reservation well ahead of time!

Benny C.

Yelp
Quite possibly my favorite bar/wine situation in the Bay Area by far! This was an actual speakeasy, it literally is in the basement of Wursthall and you must go through velvet curtains, and push on the white rabbit to get in. Reservations are required which is awesome so that it doesn't overcrowd the place. My friends and I absolutely loved the ambiance and service here. It has an Alice in Wonderland theme and they even have self serve popcorn here for you to snack on. The drinks were delicious as well! The fruitier cocktails tasted great and their versions of the more common drinks were interesting as well. I've never had a drink with olive oil in it, but it wasn't too bad! I'm definitely coming back next time!

Jacqueline Z.

Yelp
A hidden (literally) gem in San Mateo! This speakeasy is a must visit if you are able to get a reservation. It is located within Wursthall and has a secret entrance to get in. I believe you need a reservation to enter. I managed to snatch one last minute day of, but if you're able to plan ahead, it should be fairly easy to get a reservation a couple days or a week in advance. Our reservation for 2 was at 9 pm but we arrived about 15 min early since we finished up dinner earlier than expected. They were able to seat us early though, which was nice! The menu that they have is a set of tarot cards where one side is a traditional cocktail and the other side is their creative take on the cocktail. We opted to get the creative cocktails. - Forbidden Garden (4/5): This was a spin-off of a martini. It had gin, cocchi rosa, rose hips, vermouth, and house bitters. This is definitely one of the more stronger cocktails in my opinion but still good. - Shapeshifter (5/5): Absolutely amazing cocktail - my favorite of the two. If you are a fan of fruity and not-so-strong cocktails, this is the one for you. It has passion fruit, yuzu, basil, and lemon, with gin as the base alcohol. It is a spin-off of a French 75, which is a cocktail I have never heard of but sounds delicious based on the ingredients listed in it. They also have free complimentary popcorn to snack on! No other food otherwise but since it is located in downtown San Mateo, there are plenty of food options nearby. This was such an amazing experience, and I love visiting speakeasies. I'm hoping to visit again sometime soon and try some of their other cocktails.

Olivia G.

Yelp
good to go once for the experience, but probably wont return. they only had 1 server and 1 bartender for about 10 tables, which doesn't make sense if reservations are required. i would suggest they hire more staff and lift the reservation requirement

Katie W.

Yelp
Had an amazing time here! Perfect for a date, the service was top-notch. I can't wait to come back again for another memorable evening. Highly recommend!

Emily H.

Yelp
Wunderbar is definitely one of my favorite bars in the bay area! Delicious drinks and the perfect vibe. I really appreciate the bartender coming by checking on us whenever appropriate. And they have free popcorn! Just remember to try to make a reservation ahead of time.

Jaimee B.

Yelp
This is such a neat speakeasy underneath a foodhall! There's no way to really tell where it is, just follow your sense of "wunder" and maybe also the little white rabbits down the staircase :) Then through some curtains you happen upon a bookcase that opens when you touch the bunny's tummy. Opening up to a gorgeous library themed cocktain bar! The vibe was mysterious, cozy, aesthic and calming. We enjoyed conversation with our bartender and sipped away on a Lost at Sea and Lobo. The Lobo was their take on a Old Fashion bjt with a spin of horchata. Quite Strong. My Lost at Sea was a delicious take on a sidewinder's fang tiki drink. It had pandan and coconut milk and was soooo tasty! Especially topped with the jelly!

Rachel Z.

Yelp
Wunderbar is such a cute speakeasy! I would come back for the ambiance alone (very Alice in Wonderland-esque). The drinks are pretty good as well, but a little bit on the sweeter side. Service is solid with friendly staff who are knowledgeable about the drinks. They also give you free popcorn that you can grab on your own. Definitely get a reservation if you want to come here as the space is small. Probably not the best for large groups over 4.

Yuanhong Z.

Yelp
The wunderbar, Alice in wonderland! It's such a cool speakeasy bar! Our bartender is so nice and helpful in helping us understand the menu and explain what each drinks tastes like. And we enjoyed all of the drinks we ordered. The drinks look pretty and taste fruity, refreshing. It's has a good balance of all flavor profile. The vibe at the bar is just right balance of romance , chill and exciting !

Susan M.

Yelp
Scored a reservation for 5 people last Saturday. We were seated right away. The decor has a unique vibe and our server was great. The cocktails from the menu were tasty, and they were willing to make us some off-menu drinks as well. My friends loved the unlimited free popcorn. Overall this was a great experience and I hope to return again soon!

Muang P.

Yelp
The secret is out! A bar within a bar?! SAY LESS! This cute tarot-card themed Speakeasy is where it's at! The vibes are super chill. Not to mention, the drinks are amazing and the service is great! I like that they take reservations only so it doesn't get crowded and stays intimate.

Richie Z.

Yelp
It's amazing that we have a speakeasy in the bay that's outside of SF or Oakland. The design and art direction of the place is spectacular, with an amazing entry experience, beautiful interior decor, and perfectly themed menus and drinks. Every cocktail I had was absolutely spectacular from the presentation down to the flavor combinations. Each page of the menu has a light side and a dark side, either the light side representing a classic cocktail and the dark side representing the bar's unique spin on the classic cocktail. Of course you gotta try the unique cocktails! All of them were fantastic. Definitely a great place to hang out with friends or for a date night. Best bar in San Mateo hands down. Make sure to get a reservation though since it books up fast!

Maryam F.

Yelp
Great hidden gem in San Mateo! We went to celebrate my husband's birthday. Nice atmosphere and great drinks. Will come back with friends. Our bartender was polite and cool.

Les Z.

Yelp
Cute, intimate spot, great for small groups of friends and couples. Drinks are reasonably priced and tasty. Really love the self serve popcorn machine.