- Restaurants |
- Nightlife |
- Shopping |
- Movies |
- All
Godspeed
Categories: Automotive Motorcycle Repair Beauty and Spas Tattoo Food Internet Cafes Motorcycle Repair, Tattoo, Internet Cafes [Edit]
5532 San Pablo Ave(between 55th St & 56th St)
Oakland, CA 94608
Neighborhood: North Oakland
(510) 547-1313
- Hours:
Tue-Sat 10 am - 6 pm
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Price Range:
-
$
- Parking:
- Street
- By Appointment Only:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
$95 for $125 Certificate
Emily B. said: "Go here now and do your life a big favor! I can't say enough good things about this place. I bought my genuine buddy here in 2006 and it's been…" read more »
81 reviews for Godspeed
Review Highlights
"All you can eat waffles plus mimosa and bacon."
(in 10 reviews)
"...weekends they also have go-go dancers and sometimes crazy..."
(in 8 reviews)
"Lots of skulls and leopard print."
(in 7 reviews)
Loading...
81 reviews in English
-
Review from Scot C.
San Francisco, CA
2/25/2011
I go to Godspeed for the knowledge and skill the mechanics shine onto my motorcycle [malaNoche]. Everyone working there are always eager to answer questions and give advise. My expectations have been exceeded in both workmanship and estimated completion date.
The bar, tattoos, food and dancers are just are extras and not the heart of what Godspeed is to me.
Kickass Mother F*%kers -
Review from Winnie C.
Oakland, CA
7/14/2011
It did what it did.
Cheap waffles + Bottomless mimosas for less than $10.
What else do you really need to know? -
Review from Joanna B.
Berkeley, CA
8/3/2010
These guys and gals are supernice, but don't think they will fix it quick. Both times I took my bike there, it took three weeks for a few hours of labor. Couldn't ask for nicer folk, but man, I'm on day 17 right now.
Edit- second job took a month and a few days- for a couple of hours of labor! Oh well, still nice folks.
Hey- just picked up my bike, runs great , but they charged me for a bulb for my turn signal, just not sure which one, cause none of them work. Did I mention I already paid them a few hundred to redo the wiring last year? -
Review from Caitlin M.
Oakland, CA
12/7/2010
I think my pinball-playing pal put it best: "This is like Eli's, but for people with money."
Basically, it's a MOTORcycle bar, not a BIcycle bar.
Anyhow, the service was friendly, but it was dead dead dead DEAD at 8pm on Saturday evening. Also, one of the pinball machines was broken, but there was no sign on it letting you know--not particularly cool.
The place seems to have a good vibe, though, and I really like the crenellations indoors! Apparently I need to come during happy hour or brunch or something... hopefully I'll be able to bump the rating up a bit. -
Review from Wesley O.
El Cerrito, CA
1/12/2011
I build Harley-Davidson choppers. But I had a problem with with my rigid Harley bobber that absolutely stumped me. I fired it off and it would only fire on one cylinder......I went through all the items that would normally cause such a misfire. To no avail.
Swallowing my VERY large pride after 2 weeks of not having my bike, My wife had the thing hauled down to Godspeed while I made some money. Even they were stumped for a while, in turn boosting my mechanic ego a little. With some digging and some phone consulting, the faulty coil feed wire was located and dealt with! I was elated. They had it nailed in a day or so. And they liked my bike a lot. In the rare instance where I might need some help with a bike, I will not hesitate to drop my junk of at Godspeed -
Review from Jeanette S.
Oakland, CA
1/30/2011
I love God Speed for they ALL U Can Eat waffles Saturday's!!!
Also is the coolest place to get your ink! -
Review from tim n.
San Mateo, CA
1/28/2011
It doesn't get any cooler than this:
Repair, internet and caffeine all in one place.
Their bike techs are knowledgeable and truly like what they are doing.
They always have a good turn around time.
Wish they were a little closer to my house. -
Review from Jason C.
El Cerrito, CA
9/3/2009 13 photos
I am blessed (or cursed, depending on how you want to look at it) with a rare talent.
It works like your neighborhood friendly gaydar, except instead of detecting homosexuals, I instantly pinpoint radio signals from anything cool within a 15 meter radius. Don't believe me? I found a fucking ferret in California http://static.px.yelp.... didn't I?.
That's fucking cool. And Godspeed motors, you are fucking cool.
You set off my god damn cool-o-meter the moment I drove by you. In fact, I was on my way home from work when I first saw you. Instantly judging from the angry looking skull that adorned your entrance http://static.px.yelp.... and the bad ass looking bikers that were smoking outside, I knew my grey dress shirt and black slacks corporate uniform might have gotten my ass kicked.
But fuck that, I'm even more ruggish thuggish than you and I'm not afraid of my regularly scheduled beat down for being arrogant (I love pain - I work in an office).
So I did a u-turn at the light, peeling out in a symphony of tire squealing and techno music. Oh what a glorious sound it was.
Despite your ugly mug exterior and gothic dungeon interior adorned with skulls http://static.px.yelp.... , you invited me with open tattooed arms. Inside, Godspeed consisted of a shrine to the fallen bikers http://static.px.yelp.... , a hellish alter DJ booth http://static.px.yelp.... that played Rammstein, Zombie Girl, and Combichrist (which, I might add, is exactly the industrial shit I listen to that subsequently makes you feel like punching someone in the face), an in house tattoo parlor http://static.px.yelp.... , motorcycle shop, and awesome grub.
Apparently Momma Biker wanted me to grow some chest hair, a beer gut, and a motorcycle penis extension, so she fed me a pulled pork sandwich http://static.px.yelp.... , fish n' chips http://static.px.yelp.... , and french fries http://static.px.yelp.... . On weekends, they even have all you can eat waffles, some bacon and a mimosa for a economically appropriate 7 bucks http://static.px.yelp.... .
Just remember to throw your shit in one of the uber bitchin', custom stamped steel trash cans http://static.px.yelp.... when you're done.
If I've convinced you that you need to check this place out (and you should), they only have Olympia and PBR http://static.px.yelp.... on tap. And that, my friends, as my boy Ramsey put it, is metal as fuck.
Godspeed quickly became my favorite bar. I left happy and full of beer and fried shit.
The next day at work, realizing that my boss and co-workers probably thought I was pussy, sitting in my cube with a solid-color tie, performing banal little tasks all day, I used the courage that Godspeed gave me and flaunted my inner bad assness.
I showed them all how much I fucking rock by throwing that badboy Bimmer into first and peeled out in company parking lot on my way to happy hours with the "cool guys."
Fuck, I'll be an executive in no time. Thank you Godspeed.Listed in: The local list of cool, East Bay watering holes
-
Review from Kim D.
11/2/2009
I bought a vintage motorcycle a few months ago (impulse buy, Craigslist - what can I say?). It was either that, or like, half a handbag, so I went with the motorcycle.
I won't lie: I was also attracted to the weekend offer of $7 all you can eat waffles with a side of bacon and a beverage. And so, began my love affair with this very cool, very welcoming, supremely in-the-know hangout and Speed Parlour, art gallery and ink salon.
Desirae is a Goddess - and a sincere hostess. She made Caveman and me feel totally at ease from the moment we crossed the threshold. She also is a biker bad-ass, and a veritable encyclopedia of motorcycle knowledge (which goes for all of the staff). Did I mention that she like, runs the service department and has been riding since she was a toddler? Definitely knows that's she's talking about. Don't let the swagger and the hot bod fool you - she knows her shit and will give you the fairest pricing around.
The Fry-o-Lator upstairs churns out some yummy garlic fries that I simply cannot resist, since I'm boycotting the Hobnob. So while you're perusing portfolios for your next piece of ink, or dropping in for a beverage and some belly-warming grub... take some time to get to know the delightfully eclectic bunch of staffers and regulars here at Godspeed.
When I first bought my vintage bike, I purchased some motorcycle boots, a brain bucket, gloves and was wearing an old leather jacket. Desirae outfitted us last week with some serious safety gear, and proper riding attire by Vanson, and we were more than happy to make the investment in riding safe + smart. Next on the list: full face helmets - which she encouraged us to try on at another store, choose one that's DOT and Snell certified, and then she'll order the model for us.
In the last half-dozen visits, I've met: a structural engineer, Wally the pyrotechnic artist, an Ivy League software developer and a handful of the East Bay Rats, all of whom were fun, engaging, welcoming and very, very cool.
Brought the Baby Sister up here a few months ago, and lost my "pool virginity" and got "3 holes in one" my very first game. I actually won because Baby Sister scratched a bunch of times... I think it's because she'd downed like 8 beers already. I pretty much suck at pool unless whomever I'm playing in sloshed drunk, but I still had a good time learning the basics, and I think some of the other patrons enjoyed the view while I set up my shots. ; )
The vibe is very easy-going... we chose to come here for Halloween: I was dressed in a custom-made NYPD leather mini-dress, complete with patches and epaulets. I also celebrated being back in the swing of things by doing 2 burlesque numbers and had an absolutely fabulous time.
I will be getting some ink here in the next month or two to commemorate the left kidney I donated to a family friend 7 weeks ago.
What more can I say? Godspeed is definitely a uniquely cool place that doesn't throw you attitude... stop by and get to know the good folks there. Even if you don't ride, all are welcome.
See ya 'round!Listed in: Things That Make My Parents…, Loving Living in Oakland
-
Review from Peg S.
12/14/2007
True or False:
1. I went into this motorcycle shop to get my Harley (Sportster XL50 1200 Custom to be exact) repaired.
2. I went into this motorcycle shop to get a skull tattoo emblazoned on my right butt cheek.
3. I went into this motorcycle shop for their $7 all you can eat waffles, bacon & mimosas (sadly, the latter are not endless) breakfast.
Only one of the sentences is true. Is it too obvious?
4 stars mainly for cool atmosphere - badass dark, candelabras, and flat screen tvs. Hardcore-looking from the outside, but welcoming hang out vibe inside - friendly staff, video games to play, neat motorcycle accessories/tees. Very simple breakfast and good sandwich fare served with plastic utensils and paper cups/plates. Not much seating at the counter top area in the mezzanine where the food is cooked and served. Still, I absolutely love the idea of nibbling on waffles in a motorcycle shop. -
Review from Joe B.
Updated - 6/3/2009 1 Check-in Here
Totally revamped downstairs. It pretty much looks like a dungeon with a bar, and is probably the swankiest place you can drink a $1.50 Happy Hour PBR draft in the entire Bay Area. Tip well, boys and girls. They do have other drafts - Newcastle - and bottles, too, and wine, so it's not like you're limited to just the cheap midwestern stuff.
Their site is totally revamped too, promising "Pretty Ladies, Good Friends, Cold Beer, Delicious Food..." and they deliver. They're also warm and welcoming, whether you have full sleeve tats and a matte black ratbike or you're just a Joe or Jessica off the street, there's really no excuse not to be here if you're in the neighborhood during Happy Hour or at their Saturday waffles-and-mimosas shindig.1 Previous Review: Show all »
-
1/31/2008 ROTD 5/4/2008
It's the bike shop/cafe/bar equivalent of the Eat Bay Rats MC club: tough, cool, and on your side in… Read more »
-
-
Review from Jessica P.
Emeryville, CA
3/22/2008
I'm on the lookout for my next tattoo artist and I heard this place was a melting pot of many services. I enjoy feeling like I've walked into Ozzy Osbourne's living room or any place that smells of leather and beer...and bacon. Something about that combination just puts me at ease. Don't look at me that way, I know I'm not alone.
I came here with the bad ass mofo man of my dreams for a pick me up brew and walk around the shop. It may not be a huge place or your traditional cafe, but I gotta say, I had the best damn club sandwich I've had in a while here, paper plates and all.
What more do I need than to listen to the humming of a needle creating art on skin, men in leather jackets talkin' shop, my man drooling over bikes and cheap beer? I may not be a biker chick, but I can tell the people who run this shop are a family. They love what they do, they love when you come there and I'm definitely up for motorcycles and mimosas any day. Let's do brunch with the big boys, shall we?Listed in: E-ville Lunches
-
Review from meg w.
Chicago, IL
8/18/2009
By far, the coolest looking place I've ever walked into. So well done in that dungeon thing they've got going - High End Dungeon? Stone, Iron, velvet couches, wall-cut-outs for go-go dancers (not go-go-ing the night I was there, sadly), a masseuse at the ready, who also spends her spare time doing a wondrous free-spirit arm-wavey sway-dancey thing that's awesome, she has luxuriously long arms... I'm told there's food service upstairs. I was there for the PBRs and the velvet couch.
When you're on the velvet couch on the right (are there more? I don't know) you're kind of off to the side, so it can seem a bit voyeuristic. I voyeured lots of girls with girls, and guys voyeuring girls with girls while playing pool and pinball. Yeah, that was fun.
I'm not a biker. I think I've been on a bike twice in my life, and that was my brother's, and seriously, he was no biker. But, I can fake anything (yeah, that too.) But here, you really don't need to. -
Review from Parisa G.
Oakland, CA
4/10/2009
So Godspeed is pretty much the shit.
I, by no means am a biker in any way shape or form, but at night this place is pretty great. You walk in, and right above the bar to your right is a huge movie screen showing great movies, to your left is a massage chair, and in front of you are a pool table and pinball machine. They also have a tattoo parlor, and some little "VIP" loungey areas.
Upstairs is the cafe, where my friend Rosey works, she will bust out any sandwich concoction you can think of, and blow your mind!
The guys that run the place are super nice as well, i talked to some of the people, and basically i came to the conclusion that Godspeed was their boy's club fantasy growing up, how can you not support that?!
on the weekends they also have go-go dancers and sometimes crazy cirque de soliel circus people hanging from the rafters.
overall a good vibe with an eclectic group of people which includes, but is not limited to, East Bay Rats guys (DUH), CCA art kids, Metal kids, and your occasional bro ho. -
Review from Amani E.
10/9/2009
I love the Godspeed. I am hoping with this one star review to get your attention.
Please, for the love of all things holy, get a vent for that fryer, and change the grease once in a while!
I love everything else about the Godspeed- the people, the drinks, the atmosphere, the food, the music, the dancers, the service and all of it. The grease smell makes it 100% unbearable to stay there, and I have to shower when I get home and quarantine whatever I wear there. Last Friday was the last straw. It seems to be getting worse, probably because it's colder now and the doors are shut, the only ventilation there was before?
Either get a good vent or retire the fryer, please. -
Review from Mortiche W.
Oakland, CA
6/6/2007 4 Check-ins Here
I agree with what King M said- this place is the stuff of some people's wet dreams. I say some because there are the occasional weirdos that don't dream in metal, gasoline and horsepower.
This shop has it all: motorcyle shop, resident tattoo artist, bacon, beer, a tower of skulls and candelabra and decorated like a medieval castle, mood lighting, a dyno, giant projector screen, velvet cheetah print stairway leading to the cafe upstairs.
Dan and Zoe are a dynamic and cooler than you can ever imagine husband-wife team. Dan has crazy good skills with No2 systems amongst many other things, Zoe one of the most loved photographers in the Bay Area. Their tattoo artist isn't there just to occupy space- he's inked a large number of my friends and has a huge following. "Norton" Aaron, the shop's general manager, is one of the most charismatic mofos you will ever have the pleasure of chatting with if he's not busy being helpful to someone else.
I haven't tried anything else except for the bacon and waffles and OJ because I love me some bacon. And waffles. And bacon and waffles with sweet syrup drifting inbetween them. They cook dem waffles and bacon gooood. Aaron offered to make me some bacon-egg-waffle "womlet" creation once but after my second serving of piggy goodness I jsut couldn't bring myself to eat anymore, but NEXT TIME! You will be MINE!
I would trust my bike to Nate and Zhiva, who have great ability to hear what type of death rattle your two wheels are making and help you get back to tearing up the streets. Their Merchandise shop has gear/equipment for every price range including jackets, helmets, t-shirts & hoodies, even really well built pocket knives.
With such a talented group of people, this place oozes so much cool my brain hurts. Hallelujah to this sweet moto shop that does everything so well, and with so much style. Support your local business!
update 7/01/07: Tragic loss of Nate McMahon to the Godspeed crew and EBRMC family due to a motorcycle accident. I love you Nate, and you will forever remain in our hearts and thoughts. Godspeed, brother. May you rest in peace.Listed in: North Oakland fo shizzle!
-
Review from R B.
San Francisco, CA
3/24/2011
The worst customer service in addition to terrible workmanship. They will charge you out the ass for nothing. Anywhere they can screw you they will try. It sucks that these people have to resort to this.Their powder coating service is the worst and chips off after hardly any time.I had been a loyal customer but after my last experience I will never return.
-
Review from J K.
Ocean Springs, MS
2/17/2009
I got off work a little late last Sat. morning (yes, I'm one of those vampire types that works the night shift) and had to run some errands over on the West Oakland side of the world. So I'm driving around thinking I should grab a bite to eat before I hit the hay and suddenly I recall that Godspeed has all you can eat waffles. And well, that is truly my idea of a wet dream...motorcycle shop, hot women with hot tats and all I can eat waffles?!?!? WTF?!?
So I head over there...and I try the door and NOOOOOO!!!! It's closed. I'm walking around the corner to see if there are times up on a door when I hear the door open and I asked this angel if they were open. Her response was "Not really, but you know what, come on in". Here's the climax to that aforementioned wet dream...being the only one in the place half an hour too early...and yeah, the waffles are pretty good too! -
Review from anjou k.
Oakland, CA
6/13/2008
This place is so random that it has to get 5 stars.
When I first walked by, I wasn't sure if I wanted to go in. My friend was like, "Are you sure you want to eat food here?" We imagined hairy dudes with greasy hands taking a break from fixing up bikes to pop in Eggo waffles into the toaster.
We went in anyway, and we were so wrong.
The place is all cute, and you go upstairs to get your food. You can eat as many waffles as you want for $7 on Saturdays. It's also great an after work beer if you get off work before 5. I was kinda disturbed that their pizza slices come pre-sliced and frozen in this giant plastic bag, but they're actually pretty good.Listed in: Oakland Bar Crawl
-
Review from Sigi H.
Oakland, CA
1/19/2009
Nate and Norton's Bar @ Godspeed!!!
Cold Beer. CRAZY hot Go-Go dancers. Rad tattoo artist (Priest). Lots of skulls and leopard print. Pool table. Julio's mustache. ICHI the killer. Sandwiches (and other food) served til 1am. Did I mention hot GOGO dancers??? Every Thursday Friday and Saturday?! Yeah.
Well, if you're someone who hates drinking PBR and watching hot half naked chicks dance around (for free), then you my friend are an idiot.
This place is pretty much amazing. -
Review from Ramsey D.
San Francisco, CA
7/29/2009
The inside of Godspeed is like my dream decor. Vast, dimly-lit, with creepy-looking stone walls, dark iron accents, and skulls and Virgin Mary candles everywhere! I would have preferred inverted crosses to the candles, but I'll allow it.The environment alone makes it worth checking out, but knowing that there's good food, a tattoo parlor, and a bike shop are totally awesome as well.
Several choices for bottled beers, but only 2 beers on tap: PBR and Newcastle. While I prefer a wider selection of draft beer, I'll defend Godspeed's decision because that's metal as fuck. If you have no idea what I just said, you really don't belong at Godspeed anyway.
Last time I went, I was surprised to hear that there was reggae music playing over the horror movies on the big screen. Don't get me wrong, I like reggae, but I was taken aback to be listening to reggae in a setting that's just so clearly metal.
Pretty decent menu at the cafe, I'm looking forward to coming by on a weekend for the all-you-can-eat waffle breakfast special! The girl that works the cafe is named Rosie, and she's totally badass; Her hair is somewhere between Slash from Guns N Roses and Tom Araya from Slayer. She'll make you a mean 'peanut butter, jelly and bacon sandwich', but only if you're on her good side. One of the stars is for Rosie.
They have DJs and go-go dancers on certain nights. I've seen a woman there who brings a massage chair and sells massages as well. I can't wait to come back for happy hour soon, just wish it wasn't across the bridge. -
Review from Mavourneen L.
Lafayette, CA
10/23/2007
Okay, I admit it. Even after I read great reviews about this place on Yelp... I was just a little intimidated by... the testosterone aura.
You see, I am a woman, in fact, I am a woman who will admit to being over 40, and I wanted to buy a new motorcycle helmet...all by myself!
So I gathered up my brass ovaries and stepped inside and the place was buzzing. I went over to the racks of helmets and started checking them out. Fortunately, when I stood at the front counter to ask for help with sizing, I was greeted by Desirae. Desirae treated me with courtesy and kindness. She helped me with the whole size issue while I tried on a few that she suggested. I left with a new helmet, a spare visor on order and a new sense of confidence about going back to Godspeed. I will recommend them to all my friends!
Thank you!Listed in: My Support Circle
-
Review from Angela C.
Oakland, CA
12/23/2008
You may not need your motorcycle fixed, or a new tattoo, but I'm pretty sure there will be at least one Saturday morning in your future where you wake up and find your wallet isn't cooperating with your appetite. If you can manage to pull together $7. from your ashtray, under the sofa cushions, or your roomies pants pocket, you've got a pile of all-you-can-eat waffles and bacon and a bottomless mimosa to wash it down.
It's nothing special, but it's cheap and satisfying, and if you're local it's worthy of a spot on your "someplace different to overindulge on a lazy Saturday when your butt-ass broke" list. What, I know you have one! -
Review from Tito Y.
Emeryville, CA
Updated - 4/29/2009 1 Check-in Here
Happy happy place with lots of loving, Godspeed needs YOU.
Come on by, get a tat, drink some beer, eat some food, bring your bike, or motorcycle, or unicycle. no matter what it so fun..Listed in: Its after Six PM and before…
1 Previous Review: Show all »
-
5/17/2007
This place you gotta see. Though it sports tattoos, motorcycle repair, and cheap $7 breakfasts, but… Read more »
-
-
Review from Diana L.
San Francisco, CA
5/17/2008 2 photos
Priest was my tattoo artist, actually he's the only artist in the shop and I had a really great time while he inked a beautiful squid on my hip. I didn't know what to expect as I had virgin skin and he helped me ease my tensions and we talked about life and everything that's good and lovely... then Current TV came in and filmed him coloring me in. Vice Magazine came and interviewed us which was totally rad and unexpected. I was actually talking to Priest about how Vice made a huge impact on me before they came in ... Priest is awesome to talk to - he has a beautiful, wise and inspirational mind, has a light touch, is professional, his work is original, and he doesn't do flash.
This place is one of a kind and offers many services that I didn't experience.. but those that I did, and the quality of the time I had, is why I gave Godspeed a 5. That and the hot ladies walking around mmmuch appreciated, ladies. -
Review from Polly Enmity P.
San Francisco, CA
7/2/2009
Really, really, really I wish I loved this place, but it's just not quite what I'd hope for.
The good: it's exactly what my inner interior decorator wants to do to every room I've ever seen. Very cave-like and evil-seeming...love this. Food is pretty decent. Good selection of gear, and they'll order anything you want if it's not in stock. Super-nice staff.
The ungood: I brought my bike here last year to get a tire change. I called ahead of time to make sure the tire was in stock. No? OK, let's go ahead and order it. You guys are ordering it, right? Yeah, bring it in next Thursday and it'll be all good. Thursday comes; I bring it in first thing, tire isn't there. OK, they'll call and track it, see if it's coming in today's shipment. Oops, we forgot to order the tire. How badly do you need it? Uh, I leave for Mexico in 2 days. I'll go elsewhere.
Shop prices are a bit high, which I'd be willing to pay to support such a cool business concept if they were able to execute the plan well. Some attention to detail is missing here.Listed in: Two Wheels
-
Review from M R.
Emeryville, CA
1/18/2010
I fully give props to the waffles. They are extremely good. I like the quirky decor, as it's not the place you would think of going for breakfast.
My issue was with the person running the upstairs cafe. I ordered a second mimosa, and the first cup had a lot of fizz. She poured the second cup for my friend, but never went back to fill the cup after the fizz had gone down. She had already put the bottle away and that was that. I barely had a quarter of a cup of champagne, yet my friend's cup was filled more than half way.
We also ordered another waffle with bacon to share, and she picked the bacon up with her unwashed hands. There weren't any tongs nearby to use either.
She was the only one there, so she was taking my money. Gross. Have they not heard of the H1N1 flu precautions? -
Review from ken s.
Morgan Hill, CA
2/26/2011
Had my 05 Harley there for repair, oil leak...got talked into a complete rebuild $7,000. Told me it would be bullet proof. Two weeks later I was right back in after 3,000 miles. Rode to Sturgis trailered it home. Said piston on rear cylinder was bad. Another rebuild....now 8,000 miles later bad knock, took it to a local guy...says crank went out took most everything else out. Crank was brand new from Godspeed rebuild ($1,500). I think they reused all the old parts from 1st rebuild. Nice enuf place...but I won't ever go there again. I gave them two shots at it.
-
Review from C F.
San Mateo, CA
9/25/2010
WHAT, NO WAFFLES?
Made the effort to get there on a Sat morning with a crowd, but was disappointed to find they don't have a cafe right now (despite what their website sez).
Very nice lady explained it all, and I'm willing to change my rating all the way up to 5 stars once the waffles start flowing.
In the meantime, call before you show up so you aren't disappointed like we were. -
Review from Jessica R.
Oakland, CA
11/9/2007
When I was looking for a place to get my full sleeve tattoo, someone told me about Godspeed. One stop shopping, tattoos, beer, waffles, and sport bikes.
No tattoos, I was joking, but here's the real story. When I was contemplating buying a dirt bike for my son, I spoke with one the guys from Godspeed (who happens to be the owner). He made a great recommendation and also called a friend who worked at a motorsport retailer. He got me a great deal on the dirt bike. I bought/ordered all the gear I needed for my son and myself from Godspeed at good prices.
Honest guys with a lot of experience. Definitely 5 stars. -
Review from Irene M.
Lacey, WA
4/4/2007
You can't beat the Saturday special at the cafe $7 waffles, bacon and a mimosa. Did I mention endless waffles and bacon?
The decor, as everyone before me said, fantastic. The mechanics are really capable stand up guys. My friend bought some motorcycle boots from them last week, the whole staff was great and the owners helped her find the right pair. -
Review from Hollie H.
Oakland, CA
2/10/2009
Okay, so there are already a lot of accurate reviews about this awesome Oakland treasure, but here's my take, and a little something you might not have known...
It's true that this "Man Cave" as my BF likes to call it, is a motorcycle shop replete with cheap ($2) beer, a pool table, a pin ball machine, cult movies projected on the wall, "Family Guy" on the TV in the cafe upstairs (where you should totally have a sandwich-- I asked Rosie to just surprise me--and I got hot meat and cheese and veggies on focaccia?! Freakin delicious! And totally cheap! And then on Saturday night, there were hot homemade chocolate muffins). It is also true that there are go-go dancers all night, from Thursday to Saturday, a tattoo parlor in the back AND an on-site (amazing) chair massage therapist, Katrina, who will work out your kinks for $1 a minute (though, I'm pretty sure I got an hour for my $20, thank you very much!)
It is also true that the bar tenders are really really nice! Yeah. Sarah's got awesome tattoos, Steph's got great dreadlocks, Adeline's fun to talk to (she's workin on her Master's in Women's Studies), and Rachel makes her own clothes AND has an irrational fear of pool drains (she told me this when we first met, and now, every time I see her I think of that. LOL)
So, you're already going to check this place out now, just to see what all the fuss is about. But if you needed one more little piece of incentive (I can't believe no one has mentioned this yet, maybe just because it's sad)....
"Nate" & "Norton" the namesakes of the bar, were both motorcycle mechanics at Godspeed's before they passed on. They helped to build the business from the ground up. They were both really really good men. Well loved by all that knew them. Profits from the bar go into a fund for Nate's baby son whom he never even got to meet. -
Review from Pivbo H.
Oakland, CA
12/2/2009
Alright, so everyone gets the concept: this place is a combo of a lot of sick, rad things. But no one is really focusing on the fact that the pints of PBR are really fucking cold and perfectly carbonated. The glasses seem like legit English pints, too. I was there during happy hour, and luckily I skipped dinner and slammed four beers. The total cost was $6, not including tip. That's actually pretty fucking good, when you think about it, because it was better than PBR in a can for once.
So I walked out of there and felt pretty shithammered, because I didn't drink much of anything the night before, and apparently even stopping for one day lowers your tolerance. Then I had an Old Milwaukee and a Hamm's, and then went back to Godspeed where I had an Olympia. The next thing I knew, my speech was slurring like crazy, and I started feeling really fucking depressed and was talking to myself in my living room, drinking water out of a stolen Oberlin College plastic mug. It's been a while since I've been at the level of actually maniacally raving to myself. I put on a pair of sweatpants and sat on my couch with a hood on for a while.
Here's what I remember: I was saying "not as good as that PBR but you can't even afford it right now, what the fuck can you even do about it? What is it, like you could do something, you want to meet a girl or something but you want to be out here on the WEST coast? Fucking end it, fuck this, like fucking end it."
IN CONCLUSION: Godspeed is pretty sick. I do wish there were more girls there. -
Review from Pocahontas W.
Venice, CA
4/16/2008
Godspeed is RAD.
one of these days, i'm going to take advantage of their all you can eat saturday waffle brunch with mimosas. yummm. -
Review from ian m.
Emeryville, CA
1/16/2011
Godspeed is a neighbor, located down the street. I wish I could provide a great review but I will not be servicing my three motorcycles there again. I had my Triumph serviced with a 30k tune and chain replacement along with new tires. A couple thousand miles after the tune, I suffered a rear puncture. I dropped the bike off at Godspeed for a replacement tube. The tube was replaced by a junior mechanic who failed to communicate I had worn rear brake pads (mea culpa on my part), which left me stranded with a stuck rear caliper and spun oddball eccentric axle adjustment and no chain tension. I picked up pads adjusted the chain and was on my way the next day... I later brought my bike to another shop for replacement tires and on dis-assembly was informed the speedo drive had been crushed. I've put many thousands of miles on the bike, and the only shop that could have caused the damage was Godspeed. I will not be returning and encourage others to avoid this shop if at all possible.
Also, to echo others experience. Simple repairs and maintenance take many days if not weeks with little to no communication. The staff is friendly but not professional. -
Review from C N.
Oakland, CA
5/4/2008
Waffles: Delicious
Service: Fantastic
Beer: Cold
Ladies: Hot
I'm a chick, but come on, this place rocks even for us. I have to hand it to Godspeed: creating a shop where one goal of their Mission Statement is being helpful and non-biased towards women (go look it up on their website).
Their waffles are great on Saturdays! The breakfast is even good for kids. Who doesn't love cured pork product? Oh god... delicious bacon with delicious waffles. And an ice cold PBR... yes, for breakfast.
They have helped me Rat My Ride, and gotten a few parts for my 06CBR Ratbike. When that bike got crunched 5 weeks ago, they have continuously helped me jump through the insurance company's flaming hoops. They've looked out for me, and kept me riding safely.
Thanks, Desi, Zoe, Dan, Julio, Tilt... and others. But you guys (and ladies) have made my moto experiences AWESOME so far. -
Review from Lisa T.
8/10/2009 1 photo
The service was super friendly, when our party of four went there on a recent Saturday for the waffle brunch. Not crazy about the paper plates and plastic forks, but for $7 you can't complain. They were all really nice to our little boy, too. Junior loved all the skulls and the decor.
I think I'll come back at night, though, for a less-wholesome experience without Junior, so I can check out the DJ music and dancing girls. -
Review from Ruth M.
Oakland, CA
Updated - 11/23/2009
Recap: Godspeed = motorcycle shop + brunch + pool + bar + tattoos - pretension.
After my previously-reviewed experience, I bought a motorcycle and wanted to get it checked out. Actually, a cop told me the license plate holder was illegal, but the brakes were making a funny noise, too.
Everything I know about motorcycles I learned from my dad or guy-friends, so I was a bit apprehensive about going to a biker bar/shop without any knowledge of how much things should cost, or really want I wanted. A billion stars to Godspeed staff for:
a) being very patient with a new rider and taking the time to explain everything without pressure
b) as promised by their website, treating female riders with respect
c) remembering me every time I came in or called, and knowing everything about my bike off their top of all their heads
d) not giving me a hard time for showing up at 5:59 (they close at 6 during the week) to pick up my bike
I would have liked an update (they realized during the work that I needed a light for the license plate holder, not just the holder), but for the price (which was reasonable) the experience was what I wanted.
Of course, it'd be nice if the guys at the bar (2 pm on a Saturday) could have kept their eyes in their sockets when I walked in to drop the bike off, but you know, the staff was exemplary.1 Previous Review: Show all »
-
4/20/2009
God, it feels good to get out of Berkeley every now and then. This place far exceeded my… Read more »
-
-
Review from jeff b.
Berkeley, CA
1/12/2007 2 photos
Kinda a Low-Frills breakfast joint - food is served upstairs in a business that sells leathers, fixes motorcycles & cars, and will give you a tattoo.
Gotta love joints that can multi-task.
Excellent deals on the breakfast items - but don't be surprised if there isn't a lot of seating. Food is really simple - not much room for a kitchen, so get a waffle and a Mimosa and kick it.
I really like the decor, the movies they show, and the fact that the Oakland Public Library is right across the street :) -
Review from Jenn M.
San Francisco, CA
4/3/2009
Since there are so many angles in which to review this place, i wanna just start off saying i'm reviewing from a MOTORCYCLE REPAIR angle.
Where do i start?? Let's start with how motha f-ing friendly these people are!! I brought my rusty-@ssed Honda Shadow 600 in after noticing my turn signal was not working. Everyone i chatted with there was super friendly and fun. On the phone, in person, etc. Like, BONER for a place that gives good customer service!!
The best part is, they only had my bike a few hours AND FIXED IT FOR FREE!! Like, WHAT business does such things? Especially in this economy!
In addition, they gave my bike a free safety check and DIDN'T EVEN FIND ANYTHING WRONG! So, you know any service department that says that has to be amazing. I am in LOVE, here.
It's like it's our first date, and i am looking forward to the second.
I am going to be heading here for Happy Hour and Saturday waffles. Go there. Now...
