Pleasanton may have been founded in 1894, but its bar and grill scene is anything but dated. This East Bay gem offers everything from sizzling steaks and craft cocktails to lively patios and late-night bites, where you can effortlessly move from dinner to drinks to dessert. Here are eight standout spots to savor on your next visit.
Main Street Brewery
$ | (925) 462-8218 | WEBSITE
Main Street Brewery sources their beers from traditional recipes and local California ingredients, so on any given night, you might have a stout poured from nitrogen taps or fries fried to golden perfection. You can grab bar bites like jalapeno hot bites and crispy fish and chips at the raised platform, but we like to come here for the full menu in the cozy dining area, which showcases the best of Main Street Brewery’s lively bar-and-grill spirit.
Ballybunion Bar and Grille
$ | (925) 574-7111 | WEBSITE
In charge of a casual night out? Allow us to suggest a relaxed evening in Avalon, followed by a welcoming meal at Ballybunion Bar and Grille. We highly recommend the breakfast menu, a house specialty. Our other standbys include the burgers and the savory eggs. Whatever you order, save room for their fun bar experience, which brings together fresh food, friendly staff, and a convenient atmosphere.
Zephyr Grill & Bar
$$ | (925) 961-1000 | WEBSITE
Zephyr Grill & Bar has been a popular spot in the quaint downtown area of old Livermore for years. The happy hour deals have changed over the days, but it’s still a delightful dining experience for locals and visitors. For Martini Mondays, order the Parmesan Lemon Sole, Molasses Glazed Meatloaf, or the summer watermelon salad served with refreshing flavors. And, crucially, you must leave room for a bowl of the delicious butternut squash soup.
Neighborhood Sports Bar and Kitchen
$$ | (925) 846-2426 | WEBSITE
Neighborhood Sports Bar and Kitchen’s lively atmosphere with live music and their standout pizza and Thai wings keep this local spot one of Pleasanton’s best bar and grills. While popular with the sports-watching crowd, it’s a fun place to catch a game with friends or have a quick, casual solo meal at the bar (either way, get the Thai wings). Neighborhood Sports Bar and Kitchen is known for their stiff drinks, but they also have an excellent overall drink selection.
Whatever you end up ordering, add their pizza.
SideTrack Bar + Grill
$$ | (925) 399-6789 | WEBSITE
Finding a post-hike feast or a lively Saturday spot is effortless at SideTrack Bar + Grill, a hidden Pleasanton gem that excels at what it offers: a welcoming bar and grill experience. The menu stays consistent, so if it fits your budget to become a regular, you’ll always find your favorites waiting. Some standout dishes include the crispy Thai Cauliflower Wings, the refreshing Ceviche, and the hearty Sidetrack signature burger that’s a hit with the younger crowd.
The spacious dining room and cozy heated patio lend themselves to relaxed gatherings, so consider this your go-to for casual meals or bringing the family dog along.
Beer Baron Whiskey Bar & Kitchen
$$ | (925) 223-8577 | WEBSITE
This is our go-to spot for solid burgers and fries, butter chicken sliders, and mimosa flights—there’s an overarching feeling of never-ending conversation, even on a quiet weeknight. And while the burgers are the real stars of the menu, they also do some larger plates, like chilaquiles brunch, fried cauliflower, and American-inspired classics. Beer Baron prides themselves on their interesting beer and cocktail selection, and you’ll find a good variety of local and craft brews on tap.
The best time to come is during late hours, which draws a loyal crowd thanks to their lively atmosphere, welcoming staff, and date-night-or-any-night vibes.
Swiss Park
$ | (510) 793-6272 | WEBSITE
Swiss Park is as close to a hometown bar as you’re going to find in Pleasanton. It’s been around for years, but feels like it’s been part of the community for generations, thanks in part to the fact that it occupies a converted historic venue that retains some of its original low-key charm. The vibe is lively, friendly, bustling, and playful—think family gathering meets local celebration.
Use your dinner reservation to enjoy that slightly casual outfit you’ve been keeping ready, whether you’re here for comedy night with friends or bingo with the kids. We love their reasonable prices, their friendly bartenders and chefs, and their live music selection. If you come for an event, stay for a nightcap at the bar before heading home.
The Grill at Wente Vineyards
$$ | (925) 456-2481 | WEBSITE
A weekend brunch, perhaps with a glass of wine or two, is what The Grill at Wente Vineyards is best for. But we also come here to sit outside, because, as its setting implies, the restaurant has stellar vineyard and golf course views. Unsurprisingly, the menu is grill-focused, and they’re known for their Dr. Pepper ribs and dip trio. And while those are excellent, don’t confine yourself to their signature starters—the smash burgers, salads, and sandwiches are equally delicious.