11 Best Sports Bars in Oakland & East Bay (2025 Edition)

California

11 Best Sports Bars in Oakland & East Bay (2025 Edition)

Introduction

The East Bay knows how to do sports bars right! While the Warriors, Raiders, and A’s history still rings across the sports bars that loyally supported these franchises for decades, plus Cal Bears and St. Mary’s Gaels creating March Madness magic, Oakland and surrounding areas have developed an incredible network of venues where real fans gather. I’ve enjoyed many games vs my Boston teams visiting these classic franchises when they maintained their loyalty to the East Bay.

From craft beer havens with 40+ taps to classic neighborhood joints where regulars have claimed their stools for decades, these bars deliver authentic viewing experiences. Whether you’re looking for unique food options with your football or a classic dive bar vibe, the East Bay has you covered.

These venues prove that great sports viewing isn’t just about screen count – it’s about atmosphere, community, and that perfect combination of cold beer and quality food that makes every game better. From Oakland’s Uptown to Berkeley’s college scene, from Alameda’s waterfront to San Leandro’s Raiders legacy, we’ve got the real deal.

We’re still building our methodology and this is an initial list – please comment to help us improve our recommendations and find any hidden East Bay gems we might have missed!

Oakland – Uptown & Downtown

The Athletic Club Oakland

Location: Uptown – 59 Grand Ave, Oakland, CA 94612

Phone: (510) 922-8204

Website: www.theacoakland.com

What Makes It Special: The Athletic Club Oakland might be the best catch-all sports bar in the East Bay, period. This place has become the St. Mary’s Gaels headquarters on game days, and the energy during March Madness is absolutely electric. I’ve watched countless games here and the combination of local craft beers, Oakland legend-themed cocktails, and quality food makes every visit memorable.

Sports Setup: Multiple large screens throughout with excellent sightlines from every seat in the house. The audio system is dialed in perfectly so you hear every play without it being overwhelming, and they know how to manage multiple games during NFL Sundays without sacrificing the experience.

Food & Drink: All local draft beers on tap with Oakland sports legend-themed cocktails like the Vida Blue (whiskey, lemon, sugar, blue Curaçao) and Don Nelson (Hennessey, rum, sugar, and bitters). The food menu is loaded – those crisscut fries and tempura battered cauliflower are legit game-changers. Big booths for groups make it perfect for gathering with friends, and the brunch with chicken and waffles is worth the trip alone.

Atmosphere: Upscale yet welcoming sports bar atmosphere where serious fans and casual viewers mix perfectly. The St. Mary’s crowd brings incredible energy on Gaels game days, creating a college basketball atmosphere that rivals any campus bar. During NFL season, this becomes a destination for fans who appreciate quality viewing without pretension.

Special Features: All local draft beers showcase East Bay brewing excellence while Oakland sports legend-themed cocktails celebrate Bay Area history throughout the venue. Big booths throughout make this perfect for group viewing and game day gatherings with friends and family. The outstanding brunch service features chicken and waffles that are worth making the trip for beyond just game days. The upscale yet welcoming atmosphere attracts both serious St. Mary’s Gaels fans and casual NFL viewers seeking quality experiences.

Mad Oak Bar ‘N’ Yard

Location: Downtown – 135 12th St, Oakland, CA 94607

Phone: (510) 924-2047

Website: www.madoakbar.com

What Makes It Special: Mad Oak has become legendary for its sprawling rooftop deck that transforms game day viewing into something special. With 40 draft lines of primarily local beers and cider, this place represents everything great about Oakland’s craft beer scene while maintaining serious sports bar credentials.

Sports Setup: Multiple TVs throughout the indoor space and outdoor deck ensure you never miss a play regardless of where you’re sitting. The sound is generally off indoors, but during big games they know when to turn it up. The rooftop deck setup is genius – you get the game without sacrificing that convivial outdoor Oakland vibe.

Food & Drink: Forty draft lines showcasing East Bay brewing excellence with quality cocktails that go beyond typical sports bar offerings. The load-your-own ballpark nachos are a brilliant touch, street tacos hit the spot, and those mushroom fritters are show-stopping good. Quality food that justifies multiple visits beyond just watching games.

Atmosphere: The rooftop deck is where Mad Oak really shines – perfect for those beautiful Oakland days when you want sports without being stuck indoors. Tuesday through Friday happy hour flows seamlessly into night when DJs take over, creating energy that extends beyond typical sports bar experiences.

Special Features: The sprawling rooftop deck is perfect for Oakland weather game viewing, creating outdoor sports experiences you won’t find at typical indoor venues. Forty draft lines feature primarily local beers and ciders, showcasing the best of East Bay brewing culture. Their load-your-own ballpark nachos come with street tacos and show-stopping mushroom fritters that elevate the food game. DJs perform Tuesday through Friday creating extended entertainment that goes beyond just sports viewing.

19th Street Station

Location: Uptown – 339 19th St Oakland, CA 94612 (Near 19th Street BART)

What Makes It Special: This tiny sports-themed dive bar represents everything authentic about Oakland sports culture. With only three TVs and a crowd of die-hard regulars, this place proves that great sports viewing isn’t about size – it’s about passion and community.

Sports Setup: Three TVs might not sound like much, but in this intimate space every seat has a view and everyone’s engaged in the action. The smaller size means every big play feels more intense because you’re sharing it with people who actually care about the outcome.

Food & Drink: Classic dive bar pricing keeps this accessible for regular game day visits throughout the season. The friendly service and regular crowd create a neighborhood atmosphere where new visitors quickly become part of the family.

Atmosphere: Cozy dive bar energy where regulars have made this their Sunday home base for years. The intimate size and die-hard crowd create living room vibes that make every defensive stop feel like a personal victory celebrated together.

Special Features: The authentic Oakland dive bar atmosphere attracts a passionate regular crowd that creates genuine community energy during games. Three TVs throughout the intimate space ensure everyone stays engaged in the action without distractions. Friendly service makes new visitors feel welcome immediately, turning strangers into regulars over time. Accessible pricing serves working-class sports fans throughout the entire season without breaking the bank.

Oakland – Lake Merritt & Grand Lake

Grand Oaks Restaurant & Sports Lounge

Location: Grand Lake 3701 Grand Avenue Oakland, CA 94610

510-451-5253

Website: http://www.grandoaksrestaurant.com/

What Makes It Special: Grand Oaks combines restaurant quality with sports lounge atmosphere, creating elevated game day dining near Lake Merritt. This place attracts fans who want more than basic bar food with their football viewing.

Sports Setup: Multiple viewing areas throughout the restaurant and lounge sections provide options for different types of game day experiences. The setup accommodates families and serious fans while maintaining quality audio and visual presentation.

Food & Drink: Restaurant-quality menu elevates the typical sports bar experience with dishes worth trying beyond game days. The combination of good food and comprehensive sports coverage makes this a destination for fans who appreciate quality dining.

Atmosphere: Grand Lake location attracts diverse crowds seeking quality sports viewing with elevated dining. The restaurant and sports lounge setup allows for both casual family viewing and serious fan experiences under one roof.

Special Features: The restaurant and sports lounge combination creates diverse experiences for different types of fans and families. The Grand Lake location serves the local Oakland community with convenient access and neighborhood atmosphere. An elevated menu goes beyond typical sports bar offerings with restaurant-quality dishes worth multiple visits. Multiple viewing areas accommodate both families seeking casual experiences and serious fans wanting focused game watching.

North Oakland & Temescal

The Kingfish Pub & Cafe

Location: Temescal – 5227 Telegraph Avenue, Oakland, CA 94609

Phone: (510) 655-7373

Website: www.kingfishpub.com

What Makes It Special: The Kingfish is the most resilient bar in Oakland – maybe the entire country! This place started as a bait shop serving beer over 100 years ago, nearly got demolished in 2014, but was literally picked up and moved across the street. It looks like a Cal sports museum inside and the outdoor patio transforms into Bears football central on Saturdays.

Sports Setup: The outdoor patio becomes a big-screen watch party headquarters for Cal football on Saturdays, creating college gameday atmosphere that rivals any campus bar. Indoor screens ensure year-round sports coverage while maintaining that authentic neighborhood pub character.

Food & Drink: Epic hot dogs and burgers fuel hungry Cal Bears fans during those intense Saturday games. The menu keeps it simple and executes classics perfectly, which is exactly what you want when watching football. Pricing reflects neighborhood values not tourist traps.

Atmosphere: Temescal institution where Cal Bears fans have gathered for generations, creating authentic college football energy. The move across the street in 2014 only strengthened the community bond, proving you can’t kill a legendary Oakland sports bar. The outdoor patio during Cal games feels like you’re on campus without the parking hassles.

Special Features: Over 100 years of Oakland sports history survived a demolition threat when the building was physically moved across the street in 2014. The outdoor patio features big-screen Cal Bears football watch parties every Saturday during the season. Inside looks like a Cal sports museum celebrating decades of tradition and local team pride. Epic hot dogs and burgers provide perfect game day fuel for hungry football fans throughout the season.

Cato’s Ale House

Location: Piedmont Ave. 3891 Piedmont Ave, Oakland, CA 94611

Phone: (510) 655-3349

Menu: ordercatosalehouse.com

What Makes It Special: Cato’s represents that perfect neighborhood sports bar where you can watch games, drink quality beer, eat solid food, and read local papers all in one comfortable setting. This place gets the balance right between serious sports viewing and relaxed neighborhood atmosphere.

Sports Setup: Well-placed screens throughout ensure good viewing from most seats without overwhelming the space. The setup prioritizes local teams while accommodating various fan interests during NFL Sundays and Warriors games.

Food & Drink: Quality burgers and pizza with a solid beer selection covering local and national options. The menu focuses on executing pub classics well rather than trying to be fancy, which keeps regulars coming back throughout the season.

Atmosphere: Piedmont Ave location creates authentic neighborhood energy where locals gather regularly. The relaxed atmosphere makes it equally good for watching intense playoff games or just having a casual beer while catching highlights.

Special Features: The well-rounded neighborhood atmosphere makes this perfect for regular visits throughout the entire sports season. Quality burgers and pizza come with a solid beer selection covering both local and national brewing options. The relaxed Piedmont Ave location serves the local community with authentic neighborhood vibes and energy. Perfect balance of serious sports viewing and casual neighborhood atmosphere appeals to diverse crowds seeking comfortable experiences.

Berkeley

Yeti Sports Bar

Location: Berkeley – 3290 Adeline Street, Berkeley, CA 94703

Phone: (510) 879-7700

Website: www.yetisportsbar.com

What Makes It Special: Yeti is the only spot in the East Bay offering classic sports bar vibes with top-notch Himalayan food – and that combination is absolute genius! Chicken momo dumplings with your football game is an experience you can’t get anywhere else, and the quality of both the food and sports presentation sets this apart.

Sports Setup: The room is wrapped in TVs ensuring comprehensive coverage from every angle. Multiple screens mean you can watch your primary game while keeping tabs on fantasy football outcomes and other NFL action throughout the day.

Food & Drink: Himalayan cuisine including chicken momo dumplings and Nepalese pineapple fried rice creates a unique sports bar menu you won’t find anywhere else in the Bay. For less adventurous eaters they’ve got quality burgers, can’t-miss butterfly shrimp, wings, and garlic Yeti fries that are legit addictive.

Atmosphere: Wholly unique sports bar environment where serious sports viewing meets authentic Himalayan dining. Berkeley location attracts diverse crowds who appreciate both quality food and comprehensive game coverage creating an atmosphere unlike any other East Bay venue.

Special Features: Yeti is the only East Bay spot combining classic sports bar atmosphere with top-notch Himalayan food and cuisine. Chicken momo dumplings and Nepalese pineapple fried rice pair perfectly with football viewing for unique experiences. The room wrapped in TVs ensures comprehensive multi-game viewing for fantasy football and NFL action. Quality burgers, butterfly shrimp, and garlic Yeti fries satisfy traditional tastes alongside Himalayan options.

Cali’s Sports Bar

Location: Berkeley – 2367 Telegraph Ave, Berkeley, CA 94704

Phone: (510) 833-9928

Website: calisportsbar.com

What Makes It Special: Open since May 2024, Cali’s has quickly established itself as a must-visit for UFC and all major sports viewing. The combination of two big projection screens, a dozen TVs, and diverse pizza options creates comprehensive entertainment that goes beyond typical sports bars.

Sports Setup: Two big projection screens anchor the viewing experience with a dozen additional TVs throughout the space. The dual-screen setup is perfect for following multiple games or switching between main event and undercard during UFC nights.

Food & Drink: NY-, Detroit-, and Sicilian-style pizzas offer variety you don’t usually find in sports bars. Two full bars ensure you’re never waiting long for drinks even during packed UFC events or NFL Sundays.

Atmosphere: Diversely minded space that transforms into an accessible hip-hop venue in the evening with VIP bottle service. The energy shifts throughout the day from serious sports viewing to late-night entertainment, creating multiple experiences under one roof.

Special Features: Two big projection screens work with a dozen additional TVs throughout to create comprehensive sports coverage. The NY-, Detroit-, and Sicilian-style pizzas offer diverse options you won’t find at typical sports bars. Two full bars handle high-volume crowds efficiently during packed UFC events and NFL Sundays. The venue transforms into a hip-hop venue with VIP bottle service in the evenings for extended entertainment.

Alameda

McGee’s

Location: Alameda – 1645 Park Street, Alameda, CA 94501

Phone: (510) 522-3470

Website: https://www.mcgeesbarandgrill.com/

What Makes It Special: McGee’s is the best sports bar in Alameda – period! Open since 1977 on the lively Park Street drag, this welcoming no-frills watering hole has perfected the neighborhood sports bar formula with over a dozen TVs, outdoor dining patio, and rotating food options that keep things interesting.

Sports Setup: Over a dozen TVs throughout the venue ensure comprehensive NFL coverage with good sightlines from most seats. The outdoor patio extends viewing options during beautiful Alameda weather, creating flexible game day experiences.

Food & Drink: Food rotates between Paisano’s Italian wings, pizza and sandwiches, Areito Latino’s Puerto Rican tostones and tacos, plus the epic Salzon smash burger. The rotating food concept keeps regulars interested while maintaining consistent quality sports bar favorites.

Atmosphere: Park Street location creates lively neighborhood energy where locals and visitors mix for authentic sports viewing. Live music on weekends adds entertainment beyond games, making this a complete neighborhood gathering spot rather than just a sports bar.

Special Features: McGee’s has been Alameda’s best sports bar since 1977, operating on the lively Park Street drag for decades. Over a dozen TVs throughout the venue work with an outdoor dining patio for comprehensive weather-dependent viewing options. Food rotates between Italian wings and pizza to Puerto Rican options and the epic Salzon smash burger. Live music on weekends adds entertainment beyond sports viewing, making this a complete neighborhood gathering destination.

Club House

Location: Alameda- 1215 Park St, Alameda, CA 94501

Phone: (510) 522-0228

Wesbite: https://www.facebook.com/p/Club-House-Sports-Bar-Alameda-100039202432480/

What Makes It Special: Club House delivers straightforward sports bar experiences where you watch games, eat food, drink beer, and enjoy the simplicity of it all. Sometimes that’s exactly what you need – no pretension, just solid sports viewing with accessible pricing.

Sports Setup: Reliable viewing setup ensures you catch all the important plays without unnecessary complications. The straightforward approach to sports presentation attracts fans who want focus on the game rather than distractions.

Food & Drink: Sports bar menu covers the essentials with reasonable Alameda pricing. The no-frills approach keeps costs accessible for regular visits throughout football and basketball seasons.

Atmosphere: Relaxed Alameda neighborhood atmosphere where regulars can count on consistent experiences week after week. The simplicity is refreshing in an era of over-designed sports bars trying too hard to be everything.

Special Features: The straightforward sports viewing approach focuses on games without unnecessary complications or distractions throughout the venue. Accessible Alameda pricing makes regular weekly visits affordable for working-class sports fans throughout entire seasons. The reliable neighborhood atmosphere provides consistent experiences week after week that regulars can count on. Focus stays on games rather than over-designed distractions that plague many modern sports bars.

Oakland – Extended East Bay

George & Walt’s

Location: Rockridge – 5445 College Ave, Oakland, CA 94618

Phone: (510) 653-7441

Website: https://www.visitoakland.com/listing/george-and-walts/657/

What Makes It Special: Don’t be fooled by the name – George and Walt’s is woman-owned and has been an Oakland oasis for over 75 years! The unmistakable neon outline sign welcomes you to this Rockridge institution where great food like chicken Parm sandwiches and oxtail grilled cheese with tots elevates the sports viewing experience.

Sports Setup: Comprehensive viewing setup handles lively NFL Sundays and Warriors games with quality audio and visual presentation. The workhorse pub setup accommodates both serious fans and casual viewers throughout sports seasons.

Food & Drink: The chicken Parm sandwich and oxtail grilled cheese with tots represent elevated pub food that goes beyond typical sports bar offerings. Quality execution of unique menu items sets this apart from generic chicken wing joints.

Atmosphere: Rockridge location attracts OG Warriors fans and NFL regulars who appreciate over 75 years of Oakland sports history. The woman-owned establishment brings different energy to sports viewing, creating welcoming atmosphere for diverse crowds.

Special Features: George and Walt’s is a woman-owned Oakland oasis that has operated for over 75 years serving the community. The unmistakable neon outline sign marks this Rockridge institution and welcomes fans to authentic neighborhood experiences. The elevated menu features chicken Parm sandwiches and oxtail grilled cheese with tots that go beyond typical offerings. OG Warriors fans and NFL regulars create authentic energy that celebrates over seven decades of Oakland sports history.

San Leandro

Rickey’s Sports Lounge

Location: San Leandro – 15028 Hesperian Boulevard, San Leandro, CA 94578

Phone: (510) 880-2996

What Makes It Special: Once the unofficial-official home base of Oakland Raiders fans, Rickey’s still delivers that uncompromised Coliseum parking lot tailgate energy on Sundays! With nearly 100 TV sets across multiple areas including swanky VIP lounges with plush couches and pool tables, plus outdoor TVs with pop-up canopies, this place is legendary.

Sports Setup: Nearly 100 TV sets spread across main lounge, multiple VIP areas, and outdoor spaces ensure you never miss a single play. The scale is massive but somehow maintains that intimate Raiders tailgate feeling that made this famous.

Food & Drink: Two dozen fried shrimp platters or hot link sandwiches pair perfectly with Henny and Coke or cold draft beers. The menu understands what Raiders fans want – substantial portions of comfort food to fuel those emotional game day rollercoasters.

Atmosphere: Still has that Raiders energy even though the team moved to Vegas, proving you can’t kill authentic fan culture. Sundays feel like Coliseum parking lot tailgates moved indoors with all the passion and none of the weather concerns. The VIP areas with plush couches create premium experiences while outdoor pop-up canopies maintain that tailgate authenticity.

Special Features: Nearly 100 TV sets spread across the main lounge, multiple VIP areas, and outdoor spaces ensure comprehensive coverage. The legendary Oakland Raiders fan base maintains that authentic Coliseum parking lot tailgate energy on Sundays. Swanky VIP areas feature plush couches and pool tables for premium viewing experiences throughout the season. Two dozen fried shrimp platters and hot link sandwiches pair with full bar service including Henny and Coke.

Drake’s Dealership

Location: Oakland – 2325 Broadway, Oakland, CA 94612

Phone: (510) 568-2739

Website: drinkdrakes.com

What Makes It Special: Drake’s Dealership combines brewery excellence with serious sports bar credentials in a hangar-sized space perfect for game day gatherings. This is where craft beer fans and football fans unite for quality viewing with outstanding brewing.

Sports Setup: Multiple screens throughout the massive space ensure you never miss a play while enjoying award-winning Drake’s beers. The hangar-sized building accommodates large crowds without feeling cramped during big games.

Food & Drink: Drake’s brewing excellence pairs with elevated pub fare that goes beyond typical sports bar food. The extensive beer selection features rotating Drake’s offerings alongside food menu items designed to complement their brews.

Atmosphere: The massive space creates festival-like energy during big games while maintaining that craft beer focus Drake’s is known for. Beer garden and tap room setup allows for both serious sports viewing and casual brewery experiences.

Special Features: The hangar-sized building with beer garden accommodates large crowds during NFL Sundays and playoff games. Drake’s brewing excellence combines with serious sports bar credentials for quality experiences throughout the season. Multiple screens throughout the massive space ensure comprehensive coverage while you enjoy award-winning beers. The elevated pub fare menu is designed to complement Drake’s extensive rotating beer selection perfectly.

Conclusion

The East Bay delivers authentic sports bar experiences that reflect Oakland’s diverse culture and passionate fan base. From Yeti’s unique Himalayan cuisine to Rickey’s legendary Raiders energy, from Mad Oak’s rooftop oasis to The Kingfish’s century of history, these venues prove that great sports viewing combines quality food, craft beverages, and genuine community atmosphere.

Whether you’re watching Cal Bears dominate on Saturdays, following Warriors playoff runs, tracking your fantasy football destiny on NFL Sundays, or just enjoying the camaraderie of fellow sports fans, Oakland and the East Bay have you covered. These 13 spots represent the best of Bay Area sports culture without the San Francisco tourist prices or pretension.

The diversity of these venues – from Berkeley’s college energy to Alameda’s waterfront chill, from Oakland’s urban authenticity to San Leandro’s Raiders legacy – reflects the diverse communities that make the East Bay special. What they all share is that perfect combination of cold beer, quality food, comprehensive viewing, and crowds that actually care about the outcomes.

This is our initial list based on research and local knowledge, and we’re still refining our methodology for ranking East Bay sports bars. What’s your favorite spot to catch a game in Oakland or the surrounding areas? Comment below and help us improve our recommendations – we want to ensure we’re capturing all the hidden gems where real fans gather!

Bibliography

Primary Sources:

1. Eater SF – “The Best Sports Bars in the East Bay” – https://sf.eater.com/maps/best-sports-bars-oakland-berkeley-east-bay
2. Lexus Stevens Creek Blog – “Best Sports Bars in Oakland, CA” – https://www.lexusstevenscreek.com/blogs/3078/local/best-sports-bars-in-oakland-ca/
3. Visit Oakland – “Halftime Sports Bar” – https://www.visitoakland.com/listing/halftime-sports-bar/3928/
4. Berkeleyside – “East Bay restaurants and bars perfect for Super Bowl viewing” – https://www.berkeleyside.org/2023/02/06/super-bowl-lvii-east-bay-bars-restaurants
5. Yelp Oakland – “Best Sports Bars in Oakland” – https://www.yelp.com/search?find_desc=Good+Place+To+Watch+Sports&find_loc=Oakland%2C+CA
6. The Athletic Club Oakland Official Website – www.theacoakland.com
7. Mad Oak Bar ‘N’ Yard Official Website – www.madoakbar.com
8. Yeti Sports Bar Official Website – www.yetisportsbar.com
9. The Kingfish Pub Official Website – www.kingfishpub.com
10. Drake’s Dealership Official Website – drinkdrakes.com
11. Plan Oakland – “The Hub at Plank” – https://www.plankoakland.com/dine/