924 Gilman
fourth-streetEvent nights only, typically Fri-Sat 19:00-24:00
The all-ages punk club that launched Green Day, Rancid, The Offspring and Operation Ivy. Member-supported, no alcohol, democratic programming. The most historically significant music venue in Berkeley. Covers $5-15.
Tupper and Reed
downtownMon-Thu 17:00-00:00; Fri-Sat 17:00-01:00; Sun 17:00-23:00
A speakeasy-aesthetic cocktail bar in the former Tupper and Reed music shop space on Shattuck. High-backed booths, low lighting, expert cocktail program, live jazz Thursday through Saturday. Reservation recommended on weekends. The most sophisticated bar in Berkeley.
Albatross Pub
downtownTue-Sun 18:00-02:00; Mon closed
Berkeley's oldest bar, open since 1940, with a long history of LGBTQ+ welcoming space. Dark wood, board games, darts and a jukebox: an unpretentious neighborhood pub that has served a mixed and inclusive crowd for decades. No dress code, no attitude.
Starry Plough Pub
south-berkeleyDaily 15:00-02:00
Irish pub and music venue on Shattuck in South Berkeley. Pints of Guinness, pub grub, pool table and live music most nights. No frills; genuine regulars bar since 1974.
Roses Bar and Lounge
south-berkeleyWed-Mon 17:00-01:00; Tue closed
South Berkeley cocktail bar and community gathering space with DJ nights, live music and a genuinely warm welcome. The neighborhood anchor on South Telegraph for a mixed local crowd. Drinks lean classic-cocktail with modern interpretations.
Shattuck Down Low
downtownThu-Sat 21:00-02:00
A basement club below Shattuck Avenue with rotating DJ nights covering hip hop, R&B, house and reggae. The capacity is around 200; the atmosphere is sweaty and unpretentious. No dress code beyond reasonable standards. Live performances and themed nights complement the DJ calendar. Covers typically $10-20.