Oakland has fewer hidden bars than it did a year ago. Gold Palm closed in May, 13 Orphans and its Baba's House stopped regular service in September, and Eater has reported Kon-Tiki's closure. Two spots that hide in plain sight are still pouring. Before you go, check each venue's own page, which we link below.
Moonglow, Uptown
Where: 1900 Telegraph Ave. (at 19th Street). According to the venue's page, Moonglow sits behind an unassuming door next to the former Gold Palm. Look for golden crescent moons in the windows.
When: The page says "Now Open Wednesday–Saturday @ 7p."
How to get in: Eater reported that Moonglow stayed open after Gold Palm closed on May 27, 2026, and that you no longer reach it through Gold Palm. Earlier coverage told guests to ring the doorbell. Photos and videos aren't allowed inside.
What to expect: Martinis served with a sidecar, plus house and underground electronic music. A free speakeasy comedy show is listed for Nov. 14 at 7 p.m. on the events site outgoing.world.
Clio's, near Lake Merritt
Where: 353 Grand Ave., a basement bookstore and bar.
How to get in: There's no password. The secret is inside, where a bookshelf swings open onto a children's reading nook. Oaklandside reported that books are shelved by decade and house cocktails cost $10 when it opened in 2024.
When: Clio's site lists hours of Monday–Friday 4–11 p.m. and Saturday–Sunday 11 a.m.–11 p.m. Its site also lists a Halloween event, "Departed Spirits: Halloween at Clio's."
Recently closed, so don't go looking
- 13 Orphans / Baba's House, 410 15th St.: Oaklandside reported its last formal service was Sept. 5. The group says it will keep doing pop-ups.
- Gold Palm, Uptown: Closed May 27, 2026 (Eater), though the space has hosted pop-ups since.
- Kon-Tiki: Eater has reported it closed.
For more cocktail bars across the East Bay, Eater's map of the region's best is regularly updated.