Gay Bars & LGBTQ+ Venues in Oakland, CA — Page 3

Quesabirrias and margaritas meet dance beats at this Latine-owned nightclub. Qué Rico Nightclub blends a full Latin menu with drag shows, go-go dancers, and DJ sets that pull a young crowd. Happy hour runs on select weeknights, and the outdoor patio gives you a breather from the dance floor. Check their schedule for special events, as hours vary by day. If you're bar-hopping, Turf Club is nearby for a different vibe.

Think of a lounge where you can catch a drag show, then belt out karaoke an hour later. That's Summer Bar & Lounge, an intimate Oakland spot that's more Cabaret than club. It's LGBTQ+ owned and pulls a mixed crowd of 20-somethings who come for the scantily clad go-go boys, the live music, and the open mic nights. The full bar keeps things simple, but the real draw is the rotating entertainment lineup. Check their schedule before you go; Friday and Saturday nights run until 2am. They also offer free rent for birthday parties and private events, so you can book the space for your own celebration.

Friends & Family is a queer-owned, women-led bar near Lake Merritt that donates monthly to gender-affirming fundraising. Its cozy cocktail menu and late-night eats keep a mixed LGBTQ+ crowd coming back until midnight on weekends. The bar serves craft beer and full cocktails in a casual, trendy space with outdoor seating. Note that Yelp lists it as potentially permanently closed, so confirm before heading out. If it's still open, you're steps from other Oakland nightlife like The New Parish.

Alkali Rye stands out in Oakland as a beverage shop that prioritizes women and BIPOC owned brands alongside its own BIPOC ownership. The shop curates a warm selection of drinks, from spirits to wines, and hosts Tasting Bar events for sampling local makers. It also carries clothing, accessories, books, and plants, making it more than a drink stop. You can browse the rotating stock of locally sourced bottles while checking out the other goods. It's small but full of character. If you're after a specific bottle, ask the staff — they know the producers well. No hours are confirmed yet, so call ahead before visiting.

Fluid510 stands out as an Oakland supperclub where you can enjoy cocktails, small bites, and live entertainment all in one spot. Owners Richard Fuentes and Sean Sullivan, the couple behind The Port Bar, created this trans-friendly space with a large dance floor, daily comedy, and a happening brunch scene. Weekends bring the biggest crowds, with Friday and Saturday open until 2am. The outdoor seating and full bar make it easy to settle in for an evening. Sunday brunch is a local favorite. If you're out late, The New Parish is nearby for another round.

The crowd at Diablo Dancers feels like a welcoming queer square dance community. They host modern square dancing classes and events around the East Bay that are open to all but focus on the GLBT community. Check their website for the latest schedule and specific event details.

A quiet, grown-up crowd will feel at home here, with cottages, suites, and rooms surrounded by gardens and sycamores. Relax in comfort with home-style hospitality in North Berkeley.

The first thing you'll notice walking into Ajanta is the elegant dining hall adorned with Indian artwork inspired by the Ajanta caves. This BIPOC-owned restaurant has been a Berkeley fixture since 1993, earning Zagat's Best Indian Restaurant title three years running. Chef Lachu Moorjani's ever-changing menu draws from various regions of India, with a strong emphasis on organic ingredients and gluten-free and vegan options. Reservations are a smart move here — the space fills up. They serve beer and wine only, and the dog-friendly patio is a nice option when the weather cooperates. If you're in the mood for a classic East Bay dessert stroll, Fentons Creamery is a short walk away.

The smell of pancakes and coffee greets you at the door. Rick & Ann's has been a Berkeley staple since 1989, serving American comfort food like the owners remember from childhood. They use local and organic ingredients, reflecting a commitment to the community. It's casual and dog-friendly outdoors. If you're craving a hearty breakfast or brunch, head to the East Bay. Just note they're only open 8:30am-2pm, and closed Wednesdays. For a classic American brunch, this spot delivers. Nearby, Fentons Creamery offers a sweet finish to your meal.

In Berkeley's East Bay, Riva Cucina brings Northern Italian cuisine from Emilia Romagna to the table. Organic ingredients sourced from local farms and waters define the menu, with fresh pasta and braised meats as standouts. The upscale yet romantic vibe suits a date night or group dinner, and outdoor seating is available. The full bar offers craft cocktails and Napa Valley wines. Hours are limited to 4pm-8pm Tuesday through Saturday, so plan accordingly. Note that Yelp lists this venue as possibly permanently closed, so call ahead or check their website before visiting. If you're in the area, Fentons Creamery is a nearby spot for dessert after dinner.

In Emeryville's East Bay area, near Shellmound St., this Four Points by Sheraton offers free parking and free Wi-Fi. Guests enjoy newly renovated rooms, an outdoor pool, and a fitness center. It's close to Pixar Animation Studios and Emeryville Amtrak Station, making it a practical base for exploring San Francisco, Oakland, and Berkeley.

Open 24 hours daily, it's easy to fit a visit to this Oakland bakery into any schedule. Wooden Table Baking Co. is an LGBTQ+-owned, women-led shop specializing in Argentinian treats like alfajores made from scratch with all-natural ingredients. Owner Andrea Ozzuna uses her grandmother's recipes, passed down from Buenos Aires. The space is family-friendly and welcoming to all ages. The bakery started in 2011 after Ozzuna was laid off from her geology job and enrolled in the Oakland Women's Initiative class to write a business plan. She grew the business by leaving samples at local coffee shops, eventually selling to stores across the Bay. Today, you can order fresh alfajores, cookies, and chocolate truffles online or stop by their shop. The free wifi makes it a good spot to linger over a pastry.