When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
Low Bar
Why Low Bar is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Low Bar in Oakland stands out as a quintessential neighborhood bar where comfort and social connection thrive. Co-owned by Matt Meyer and Daniel Paez, the bar maintains the lively spirit of a vibrant night out while offering a tidy and welcoming environment. The atmosphere balances being busy and unpretentious, making it a great place to engage with friends over another round of drinks. With food served until 10pm and attentive staff, Low Bar provides a relaxed yet energetic space for casual get-togethers. Its location on 2300 Webster Street makes it accessible for locals seeking a spot that is both familiar and lively. A notable highlight is the quieter back room where patrons can enjoy conversations while watching flickering movie images, enhancing the cozy feel of the place. Open every day except Tuesday, Low Bar is not just a bar; it’s an inviting community hangout where people of various ages feel welcome and staff take pride in providing excellent service.
Here's what people think of Low Bar
As of recent, Low Bar holds a 4.1-star rating based on 21 reviews.
User reviews generally reflect a positive overall impression, contributing to the bar’s solid 4.1 rating out of 5 from 21 reviews. Positive feedback frequently credits the bar’s inviting atmosphere, the friendliness and attentiveness of the staff, and the blend of a busy yet comfortable setting that encourages socializing. Reviewers appreciate how the owners have cultivated a neighborhood vibe that feels both lively and familiar, making it easy to relax and reconnect with friends. Many note the quality of food served until late evening as a valued complement to the drinks. On the other hand, some negative reviews mention instances of the bar becoming overly crowded during peak times, which can impact the ease of conversation and service speed. A few patrons also expressed that the ambiance might not suit those looking for a quieter or more upscale experience. Despite these critiques, the consensus underscores that Low Bar is a dependable, enjoyable venue for casual meetups. In conclusion, the reviews suggest that Low Bar shines as a community-focused bar with great hospitality, making it a reliable choice for social outings in Oakland.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Harlow Boge
Had a great time on a Tuesday night! Bar wasn't too busy and got to talk with the owner a bit. He was kind enough to let me try a few different things too! Have some great liquor recommendations now.
Vivian Duong
New bar. Opened about a little after a year ago. My husband and I were wondering why it only had 3.9 stars. Don't let that scare you away to play some pool and pinball. You can get a beer on draft or in a can, a cocktail or a shot. They should have something for mostly everybody. They have slushies, too, if you're feeling it because it's July 7, 2024 and it's 100 out. And they have hot dogs! I'm writing them a review because they were nice and I hope my review gets their average to be at leave 4 out of 5. Come give them a try and visit a small business, and if you don't like them, you can write a review and tell them why.
Cigarette Girls Burlesque
My fiancé were staying at the hotel across the street and fell in love with this bar. Dave was an amazing bartender who was able to recommend something new and it! Super fun, chill atmosphere, the games were a fun addition.
Hunter Thomas
$6 hot dogs, pinball, good quality pool tables. Low key dive bar with high ceilings, doesn’t feel cramped
Kevin Kenan
Caught them watering down their alcohol. Called em out on it and all they did was pour me more liquor than before. I'm pretty sure what they're doing is illegal. I wasn't even intoxicated so I know they didn't do it cause they thought I was drunk they have the actual bottles watered down. I'm never coming back here. Bartender was a complete Karen as well. Stay away from this place. They are robbing people. Edit: In response to your comment, owner I totally understand why you would defend your establishment but I assure I am correct. My partner and I are in the industry and I have a witness. The bartender from last night didn't even deny that the liquor was watered down. She knew we knew. I believe you should address this with whoever was working Sept 21 in the evening because she will be the downfall of your establishment. Best of luck.
How to reach Low Bar
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Why Low Bar may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Low Bar with your friends?
If you're searching for a lively spot to gather and create memorable moments with friends or family, Low Bar offers a uniquely spirited atmosphere that makes it a compelling choice. Located in a vibrant area, this Mexican cantina-style bar exudes energy with its bright turquoise walls and palm decorations, evoking a Baja-inspired tropical feel. It’s a place where the ambiance encourages socializing, laughter, and spontaneous fun, ideal for groups looking to unwind after work or celebrate weekends. Low Bar crafts a stellar lineup of cocktails, cleverly reinventing classics such as the paloma with creative touches like spiced grapefruit cordial. This means your group can enjoy a diverse selection of drinks to suit all palates, from casual sippers to cocktail enthusiasts. The bar also features an enticing food menu with crowd-pleasers like loaded birria fries, tacos, and sweet potato fritters, providing satisfying bites to accompany your drinks. Whether you're aiming for an energetic night out with upbeat music or a relaxed communal vibe with shared plates and drinks, Low Bar has a mix of elements that cultivate just the right atmosphere for a fantastic group meetup.
What activities and experiences does Low Bar offer that make it perfect for group meetups?
Low Bar is not just about good drinks and great food; it offers an environment designed to maximize social interaction and enjoyment for groups. Its atmosphere feels like a festive fusion of a sports bar and tropical cantina, with lively music and vibrant decor that puts everyone in a celebratory mood. This vitality makes it a natural destination for gathering with friends for casual meetups, birthday celebrations, or after-work hangouts. The late-night happy hour starting at 10 pm adds an incentive for groups to linger and enjoy more cocktails at attractive prices, extending the evening’s fun. Thanks to a versatile menu featuring both sharable snacks and hearty options, groups can easily find food suitable for different preferences without hassle, facilitating communal dining and easy conversation. The service is attentive, ensuring your group is well taken care of and that food and drinks arrive promptly, keeping the energy flowing. As a space with plenty of seating and a layout conducive to mingling, Low Bar accommodates both intimate groups and larger gatherings comfortably, making it a go-to venue when you want to rally your people under one roof.
How does Low Bar’s drink and food menu enhance the group experience?
One of Low Bar’s standout qualities is its thoughtfully curated menu, perfectly suited to a group’s diverse tastes and cravings. The cocktails are a key attraction — each drink is a creative twist on a classic, promising familiar flavor profiles with exciting new layers. For example, the paloma variation offers a refreshing yet complex blend with spiced grapefruit cordial, appealing to cocktail lovers eager for something different yet accessible. This diversity ensures everyone in the group can find a drink they enjoy, whether they prefer something light, sweet, or bold. On the food side, the menu’s small plates and shareable dishes like loaded birria fries and tacos foster a communal dining experience, encouraging guests to sample and share, which naturally sparks conversation. The inclusion of unique options such as corn and sweet potato fritters adds an unexpected twist, broadening flavor options and keeping the meal interesting. The reasonably priced and freshly prepared food also complements the drinks well and sustains the energy of the meetup without breaking the bank. Altogether, the menu not only satisfies but elevates the group outing by promoting an interactive and flavorful experience.
Why is the atmosphere at Low Bar especially suited for a social night out?
Low Bar’s atmosphere is carefully crafted to be vibrant, inviting, and full of energy, perfectly suiting it for social gatherings. The decor brings a visually engaging experience with its bright turquoise walls and palm plants, giving the venue a distinctly Baja vibe that transports guests out of the everyday into a celebratory setting. The music is lively and well-curated, generating the perfect backdrop for conversation, dancing, or simply enjoying the company of friends. However, some visitors note that the volume can be quite high, sometimes nearing a club-like intensity, which, for certain groups, may amplify the party mood but for others might require adjusting to the sound level. The seating design inside and outdoors accommodates different group sizes and preferences, from casual bar stools to more private tables, making it easy to find a comfortable spot that fits your gathering style. Friendly and accommodating staff round out the experience by providing attentive service without intruding on your night, so you can focus entirely on enjoying your friends and the festivities.
What makes Low Bar a great choice compared to other local bars or restaurants for group events?
When deciding on a venue to host your next gathering, Low Bar stands out due to its combination of atmosphere, menu variety, and pricing that balance fun and value. Compared to more generic bars, its thematic Mexican cantina styling adds a vibrant touch of character that guests remember. Its creative cocktail options provide a refreshing alternative to standard drinks, making the experience feel more special. The food selections offer both comfort and adventure, ensuring that groups with different dietary preferences and tastes feel catered to. The late-night happy hour encourages longer stays without the steep bill, which is often an essential consideration for larger groups. While some other local spots may offer good food or music, Low Bar's fusion of all these elements—decor, drinks, food, music, and service—creates a holistic social environment that many other venues struggle to match. This makes it a reliable and exciting choice when you want your meetup to be more than a casual night out but rather a lively, memorable occasion.
How do customer reviews reflect on the Low Bar experience for groups?
Low Bar holds a solid rating of 4.1 based on about 21 reviews, indicating an overall positive reception from patrons. Several reviews praise the good atmosphere, friendly staff, and the quality of both drinks and food, emphasizing that it exceeded their expectations for a bar in a casual setting. Many highlight the vibrant energy and the fresh, tasty menu items as key reasons they enjoyed visiting with friends. However, some feedback points to the music volume being quite loud, which might be off-putting for those seeking quieter conversation. Additionally, while the majority of customers appreciate the creativity in cocktails, a few express preference for sticking to beer or simpler drinks. Despite minor critiques, the general consensus is that Low Bar is a lively, fun spot suitable for groups wanting to enjoy a night out with flavorful drinks and approachable food in an upbeat environment. The staff’s attentiveness and the venue’s accommodating layout also contribute positively to group experiences, making it a dependable hub for social gatherings.
Could Low Bar be suitable for family meetups or only for friends?
While Low Bar primarily markets itself as a fun and energetic bar with a focus on cocktails and Mexican-inspired fare, its welcoming atmosphere and varied menu can suit family gatherings, especially those involving older teens and adults. Its shareable plates and casual dining style foster a sociable environment that families can enjoy together, particularly during earlier evening hours when the ambiance is lively but not overwhelmingly loud. The décor is family-friendly and colorful rather than intimidatingly adult, and the space offers enough seating variety to accommodate groups looking for comfort and engagement. However, families with very young children might want to consider the noise levels, which can rise to club-like intensity at times, particularly later in the evening with the DJ and music volume. For families seeking a vibrant spot to celebrate birthdays, reunions, or casual dinners with an upbeat twist, Low Bar presents an inviting option. Nonetheless, it is especially well-suited for groups of friends and adults looking for a socially energetic and flavorful night out.
What logistical details should groups know before planning a meetup at Low Bar?
To maximize your group's experience at Low Bar, consider some practical tips. The venue tends to get busy during weekends and evenings, so reserving a table in advance is highly recommended to ensure your group can stay together comfortably. The bar stays lively late into the night, with a happy hour that extends from 10 pm onward, offering an opportunity for groups to enjoy good deals if their meetup leans into late-night hours. Be prepared for loud music, which enhances the energetic vibe but might challenge conversation for some guests; choosing seating arrangements either inside or outside can influence how you experience the sound. Pricing is moderate, with cocktails and plates priced fairly, so groups can enjoy a satisfying night out without excessive expense. Lastly, the staff is known to be friendly and attentive, so don't hesitate to ask for recommendations or assistance to tailor your visit perfectly to your group's needs. Keeping these factors in mind will help your meetup at Low Bar be smooth, fun, and memorable.
In summary, Low Bar combines a vibrant atmosphere, inventive drinks, flavorful food, and accommodating service to create a standout venue for group meetups. Whether you're looking for a festive after-work hangout, a celebratory dinner with friends, or an engaging spot for a casual family gathering, it presents a dynamic setting that elevates socializing. The blend of Baja-inspired decor, creative cocktail offerings, sharable plates, and upbeat music fosters connections, laughter, and memorable experiences. While the volume and lively crowd may not suit every preference, they add to the bar’s distinctive charm and energy. This carefully balanced combination makes Low Bar a highly recommended destination to rally your friends or family for a night out filled with good times and great drinks.