We stopped here for drinks after an event. We had eaten at Legume last spring, but since we do not normally frequent Oakland we had not been back to try out the cocktail bar side. I'm so glad that we did!! It is a small space on the opposite side of Legume with a separate entrance. There are a few tables in the front and back and bar seating. It was pretty busy when we were there but we were able to get a high table at the front.
We ordered a few different cocktails from the somewhat limited menu. The Black Manhattan was delicious, even though it was on the rocks and I usually order my Manhattans straight up. I also tried my boyfriend's Sazerac, which was also very good. The bartenders here know what they are doing! Bar Marco is still my bar of choice, but this one is up there with the recent openings of great cocktail bars in the city. There is a small selection of snacks, appetizers, and burgers as well. The service was attentive without being pushy, and we were left to enjoy our drinks with ample time between orders.
The background music and general noise level never overpowered our conversation, so it is a great bar to enjoy a few drinks with friends. Also, the lack of televisions is wonderful and adds to the relaxed vibe as it encourages patrons to focus on each other and their delicious drinks. I will definitely come back the next time I am in Oakland!