Where is the Best Dive Bar in Oakland, California?
Located on Grand Avenue, just a block away from the Grand Lake Theatre, the Alley is at once charming, old-fashioned, and completely novel. It’s not easy to find a good piano bar these days, but this one definitely fits the bill. The man at the piano is Ron Dibble, a likable, humble musician who has called the Alley his home for longer than I’ve been alive. He knows every tune in the book, and is eager to give everyone a turn at the mike, regardless of vocal talent. You don’t have to be a world-class singer to enjoy yourself at the Alley. You just need a stiff drink, and perhaps a friend to encourage you to let out your inner Sinatra.
Heinold’s is just the best, most incredible little bar if you are into bay area history, lore, and a historic, unique atmosphere. There’s no place quite like this, even in San Francisco. You owe it to yourself to at least check it out… sit down at the very, very crooked, lopsided bar, order and drink from one of the friendly, courteous bartenders (Donnie is very cool and knowledgeable about the bay area bar scene), and soak in the history surrounding you. Kudos also go out to the current owner who bought it from the original Heinold family back in the 80’s. She has purposefully kept the bar exactly the way it was and it’s charm and historical significance remain intact.HIGHLY recommended!Pros + atmospheric, historic, friendly, funCons – none, none, none
