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The Bistro

4 star rating
based on 39 reviews

Categories: Bars, Restaurants  [Edit]

1001 B St
(between Foothill Blvd & Main St)
Hayward, CA 94541
(510) 886-8525
  • Price Range: $$
  • Accepts Credit Cards: No
  • Parking: Street
  • Attire: Casual
  • Good for Groups: Yes
  • Good for Kids: No
  • Takes Reservations: No
  • Delivers: No
  • Take-out: No
  • Waiter Service: No
  • Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
  • Outdoor Seating: Yes
  • Good for: Lunch, Late Night
  • Music: Live
  • Best Nights: Mon, Fri, Sat
  • Happy Hour: No
  • Alcohol: Beer & Wine Only
  • Smoking: Outdoor Area/Patio Only
  • Coat Check: No
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39 Reviews for The Bistro

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Photo of Derrick L.

 

6

5

Derrick L.

Castro Valley, CA

4 star rating
06/07/2008

I love this place.  Great beer.  

And always have solid live music.  I've seen several bands here, but I love Suspicious Package.  They were great, but haven't seen them in a while.

Crowd's pretty laid back.  Usuals includes some former (or current) 'shroom heads.

No mixed drinks, but that's OK considering the quality beer selection.  Give it a try!

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Elite '08

171

271

Vanessa R.

Castro Valley, CA

5 star rating
05/25/2008

The Bistro is a special little place.  I immediately fell in love with the bartender who had long hair, which has been a secret turn-on for me ever since Andrew W.K saved my life one night (for real).  I decided to order the Coney Island Lager in honor of one of my favorite movies ever, The Warriors.  It turned out to be a really good choice!  Bartender (let's call him 'Hunk') let me sample it beforehand.

My friend and I sat down at one of the tables indoors, where there was white paper draped over it and a cup of crayons.  We went to town, and I drew a jive turkey, a picture of 'any guy' and my signature over and over, which I later had to seperate a group of fans, who were all fighting for it.  A band was setting up on stage so we went outside on the patio.  It was cold out but this would be a wonderful patio in the daytime to sit and chillax, or to overhear a conversation, I quote "YOU'RE SO FULL OF SHIT, EVEN YOUR EYES ARE BROWN!" I lost it when someone shouted that to their friend.  

We went back inside and listened to 'Captain Casual' play a few blues songs.  They even busted out the yazz flute (jazz flute).  We left after using the restroom, and you know that I'll be back for seconds of that amazing beer, the shit-talkers on the patio, and the over 40 crowd that is there on a Saturday night.  Two thumbs way up.  *dabbles on the yazz flute*

EDIT: Some guy sang the entire 'Wishbone' theme song on the patio, you know, from the PBS show about the jack russell terrior.  He was about 55.  It was awesome.  This place is my jam!

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23

171

Chad L.

San Leandro, CA

4 star rating
04/23/2008

Ah, the Bistro. This place is one of the only businesses that has remained tried and true over the years and managed to survive the remodeling of downtown Hayward without watering down their drinks or late night entertainment. They are packed  at night with people filling the seats in and outside. The beers here are better than average as is the coffee, I can't say that I have really eaten much of the food here, but I sure have seen a lot of shows.

The Bistro in Hayward is home to many a late night blues session or impromptu poetry filled open mic night. I have seen everything from Bluegrass music and Hendrix covers, to garage rock and mellow jazz played here. They leave a sheet out front each month letting you know who's playing when and if you stop by during the day try out one of their many food or beverage offerings, (and let me know how the food is, since I might like to try what you like). They are always friendly and prompt with service and the owner is super cool. Stop in sometime and check them out.

CHAD

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40

60

Gabe F.

Hayward, CA

5 star rating
07/19/2008

Beergasm!

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10

72

Andi R.

Oakland, CA

3 star rating
02/20/2008

I can attend a mini high school reunion any night of the week. Great. Exactly what I look for in a bar.

At least they have good beer.

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Elite '08

65

824

Tracy A.

Oakland, CA

4 star rating
02/18/2008

Wonderful double IPAs and I guess an open mic Monday night.  It made for some deep conversation with my friend and I and some serious beer drinking!

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7

28

Brian W.

Boulder Creek, CA

5 star rating
02/26/2008

Vic and Cynthia run a helluva good ship .... five stars for great publicans .... they are a rare breed in this world .... five stars for their beer festivals .... IPA's .... Double IPA's .... wood-aged beers .... best beer bar this side of the Toronado (and that's high praise) .... sandwiches and bbq are a great compliment to their beer list .... Thanks Vic .... see you in Denver this fall
B.Y.O.B. only if you made it and it's a gift to the owners -Cheers

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Photo of Shereen R.

 

21

93

Shereen R.

Dublin, CA

4 star rating
01/27/2008

I've been to The Bistro once before, but so long ago that I don't remember much about it other than it was on the corner of B & Main St. and that it played loud music.  Well............. fast forward to some odd years later and my opinion of this place is much more lucid.  :)

To start ~ yes, the name IS deceiving.  But once you get over the fact that The Bistro doesn't fit the standard association of a "bistro" (read: cute little cafe), you can appreciate what makes this place awesome.  We went here to support a local band one Sunday afternoon / evening.  We started with - dare I say - coffee.  Yes, coffee.  (We had an early start that morning and were exhausted.  Any consumption of alcohol at that point would have resulted in us passed out, face down on the table.  You may be comforted to know that the drinking commenced later on that evening...)  

Within 5 minutes of being inside this place, I immediately felt that it was a neighborhood hang out.  Regulars and visitors alike chatted on and on.  And there were even a few "Norm!" moments.  I felt a really good vibe from just being around these people.  As mentioned earlier, we had coffee, which was pretty damn good.  I had heard that they normally serve food, but on this particular night their fridge had broken down.  Sad.  :(

Once the bad got to rOckin' I realized that this place was a hot spOt for local talent.  Inside is fairly small, but can still pack a crowd.  There is an overflow for seating outside.  And on a cold winter night, as long as you're bundled up, you can still enjoy the music and chill outside.  (Get it?  Chill?  Haha...)  The beer, as many have said, is excellent.  And this is coming from a girl who's NOT a beer drinker.  There is a good variety of what's available on tap.  

There's no cover charge (shweet!) and you get a chance to listen to awesome LIVE music.  Not a bad way to spend a lazy Sunday in downtown Hawyard.  Not too bad at all...

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Photo of Patrick A.

 

118

350

Patrick A.

San Francisco, CA

3 star rating
09/27/2007

$3.50 for a glass of House Red.  yay!
It would be better suited poured over fish & chips.  gross.
The creeps give me the creeps.

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10

28

Mieko G.

Hayward, CA

4 star rating
01/26/2008

I love this place...but they didn't keep around my favorite beer, the Green Flash! The live music is great. The long line for the bathroom can be frustrating/scary when you're full of beer. The Funkey Money, Buffalo Bills, and Bistro make up the B Street Trifecta!

Correction: The Green Flash is still around :o)

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12

43

DJHighYello W.

San Leandro, CA

4 star rating
01/03/2008

A nice mix of blue collar folks that are down to earth and friendly and some really brainy cats that can hold a conversation or numerous subjects.  This is one of the few bars where I have had deep intellectual conversations with strangers, and they weren't full of BS.

And free music to boot, never a cover charge and I have seen some great bands there live. "Holiday and the Adventure Pop Collective" still among the best.  It can be a crap shoot whether or not the band is going to be good but for free who can complain.  

When I lived in Hayward I was a regular, IMHO it's the only place worth coming back to hang out at.

It's not a full bar they only serve beer and wine so the real degenerate drunks have to go down the street to get their booze.

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Photo of Cat R.

 

29

93

Cat R.

Castro Valley, CA

5 star rating
09/18/2007

I went on a Monday night. It was an open mic night. Very welcoming atmosphere. I felt right at home. I had one of their many micro brews that they offer. I was told that the selection of beer changes quite often. I can't wait to go back and try more good beer when I have time.

I was a little bummed because they close early on Monday Nights. But its ok, cause the party can be moved to one of the other awesome bars down the street or around the block. =)

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Photo of David m.

 

4

17

David m.

Hayward, CA

4 star rating
02/26/2008

i went there for first time on a Monday OPen Mic. And now i know that all the other reviews from this place are correct. is a nice place to go take some drinks (beer & wines) sorounding by great kind people of all ages. i had a great time talking with a few folks (some of them players some others just chill'n).
they hava an extended great IPA's i tried three diferrents and the one that i really recomend is the PIZZA PORT HOIDEN $5 glass is pretty good.
Actually if you like some kind of special taste on the beer you can tell the bartender and he can help choosing the good one for your likes.
the parking is on the street but theres a lot plenty of space around the place so thats not a big problem. maybe sometimes the line for the bathroom could be really long but just be prepare for it so if you start feeling that your getting overloaded and the bathroom line is not so long or no line jump and go to dump it all.

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Photo of Kari M.

 

1

7

Kari M.

Hayward, CA

4 star rating
01/02/2008

I have been going to The Bistro off and on for many years. This is one place that is what you make it. An eclectic group of regulars and a retro to hip, metal to folk ever-changing environment. They have always on tap twelve of the most tasty and wide-ranging micro-brewed beers and a great selection of Belgian ales. You can enjoy your beer in the outdoor street patio. As far as food they have a good eve cheese menu. The regular menu has not changed in a long time. Feature sandwiches and salads.
They have LIVE music on most nights with an OPEN MIC on Monday's.
Always fun or at least not boring. And you will always meet someone new.

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0

9

The Reviewer T.

Hayward, CA

3 star rating
10/15/2007

This is place is cool because of the beer selection and the live music. No hard liquor is sold here, just beer and wine. The place is really small and a lot of regulars come here. Its right down the street from Buffalo Bills which closes earlier than The Bistro. I usually show up here after drinking at Buffalo Bills. The Bands are a hit or miss here, I've heard some great music from a local group named Laroga, this reggae style music and the crowd which came to watch the band was young and energetic. But I've heard some awful music here as well. I can't name an awful band because I never spent the energy on finding out their band name. Bad music puts a damper on things... The food here sucks, don't eat here...if your gonna eat in this area might as well go to Buffalo Bills.

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Elite '08

150

194

blair k.

Dublin, CA

4 star rating
02/08/2008

this place is pretty cool.  pretty chill.  a few weirdos, a few alcoholics, and beer afficionados( spell check is down and i fucked that up).  i have consumed some awesome beer here!!  i heard the food is pretty good, which i believe is only served at lunch.  they always have specials and great recommendations.  the live music has always been really enjoyable.. i have never seen any trouble here, granted they only serve beer and wine.  my favorite beer girl was Minette but she moved to Aveda.  She always hooked up killer beer!!!  She got me into Elder Pliney. sooo good!!!!!

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Elite '08

171

224

Linda M.

Hayward, CA

5 star rating
05/25/2007

We came here on open mic night.  I knew when I walked in it was my kind of place.  A little hole in the wall bar with great beer selections and live music. The artist on the stage was a wonderful singer-songwriter, and kinda cute.  After two songs, the next artist came onstage, and although I didn't appreciate his talent quite so much, we still enjoyed the atmosphere and experience.  The clientele and staff were friendly.

My second experience was on a Saturday afternoon when they were having a wet hops tasting festival. I love beer, but know squat about brewing.  A friend (who is an avid home brewer) came up from San Jose with his wife and golden retriever, so I joined them with my kids and mutt.  Outdoor sidewalk seating is great for enjoying the beautiful California weather, people watching, shooting the shit and bringing cool dogs. As I reminisce, I am upgrading from 4 to 5 stars. I really love this place and will come back.

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Photo of Mas R.

 

5

13

Mas R.

San Carlos, CA

4 star rating
05/22/2007

NOTE: You may want to read my review of Buffalo Bill's before this one..

Wow, losing the cops was incredibly easy, yet my heart was still pounding. But that's good because I am now fully alert and in control or all my faculties (Isn't that what we all say when going from pub to pub?) Anyway, Ariel, Carla and I shake off any cob-webs and back to the business at hand.

Now many who have reviewed The Bistro have mentioned that it is a misleading name, that Bistro is a quaint little restaurant with les tables outside on Les Champs Elise. - SMACK! - MR. POTATO HEAD, MR. POTATO HEAD! ah does it really matter? Sorry! I'm getting a bit obnoxious here (I'm known to do this when I've had a few too many!) Oh wait! I can't use that one today. I typing this at work (On my Lunch hour Girl! I knew you'd rush to judge me! Leave me alone woman!) Damn another slip up, I'm not married anymore!

Okay so we make it inside, order some drinks. Well, not me, I had enough at Buffalo Bill's (see previous review) but wanted to get a round for my accomplices. Again this is a great little spot to just come and chill, have a few beers or a glass of wine and enjoy the live music that seems to endlessly play here. I love the sidewalk patio seating too. What a spot for having a drink on a balmy summer eve! There always seems to be a decent crowd here too. Not so packed that you can't move but enough to feel the vibe and perhaps strike up a chat with a stranger. I love the bands that play here too. Anything from Deadheads, Blues, Folk, Rock, Jazz.....

You know what's funny, just up the street at Buffalo Bill's where they don't just sell alcoholic beverages, we had 3 squad cars ready to haul us off yet a block down the street, not a cop in sight. Yeah they cruise by and take a peek but never have they made me feel harassed here! Perhaps they're regulars too!

If you're wondering, I don't come all that often yet the bartenders have always made me feel like a regular. Attentive and friendly service and patrons too. Oh one more thing! I totally made up the losing the cops part. Yeah, they caught me! NOT!

You'll Love The B!

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Photo of D-shiz L.

 

78

201

D-shiz L.

Fremont, CA

3 star rating
03/14/2007

The name seems a bit of a misnomer, cuz instead of a cozy, french neighborhood restaurant, this place is more of a watering hole, but a decent one at that.  The place is super casual and sports an outdoor seating area where you can chill, enjoy the weather and people watch on the street.  Not a big deal for me, but the patio is a smokers sanctuary so you will be amongst the haze.  The last time i was there, i probably noticed the scent of 4 different smokes, one of them being a non-legal variety, but over some nice beers and a nice breeze it was all good.  

They have a good selection of micro brews on tap, mostly the burly varieties and they have an exceptional Belgian selection.  The tenders here are nice and knowledgeable of their products so they can help you make a choice.  On a warm afternoon i wanted something lighter, crisp and smooth and wanted to try something new.  The bartender made a suggestion and i ended up with a Belgian "trippel" Karmillet.  She poured my bottle into a huge belgian goblet and to say the least, with the nice weather and nice buzz, i was "pimpin".  

I also noticed a small menu with a pretty good cheese selection, all artisnal and mostly local.  Did not try any, but very nice.  I actually give this place 3.5 stars, deduct  .5 star for having only one toilet to be shared by everybody, and for a watering hole, that's not too good.

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2

12

Paul S.

San Lorenzo, CA

3 star rating
09/20/2007

This is a cool local pub for me. Its cool because I don't have to go all the way to San Leandro or Alameda to get a good beer. Their selection is usually limited to IPA's and various ales, of which they have 10 to 12 on draft. They also have some pricey Belgians in bottles. I don't eat here.

The patio seating is cool and the live music is most welcome. I have played at a few open mic's here on Mondays. Downtown Hayward really does not offer much of a hip scene, but this place is one bright spot.

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Elite '08

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shannon l.

Fremont, CA

4 star rating
07/02/2007

I came here to watch my friend's band, Ben Storm Band, perform and it was a nice, casual, cozy venue.  Hayward and its "downtown" are pretty barren so this was a nice little place with a variety of people, young & old.  There's a very local & laidback vibe.

There was a lady that had to be about 50ish there and she was wearing a mini skirt and dancing all cutsie to the music.  It was a funny sight.  Let go & let loose at any age, yea?

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8

80

Stumbalina b.

San Francisco, CA

5 star rating
11/25/2006

You know what they say about Hayward: Good from far, but far from good. Well, the Bistro is the diamond in the rough. Avoid the nasty, overpriced food at Buffalo Bill's down the street and opt for the charming Bistro instead.

The Bistro is the model for what a good cafe should be. Rarely do I leave San Franciso for entertainment, but when local friends are performing here, I enjoy the visit because it's fun, friendly cozy little joint. Tons of beer and paper table cloths with ample crayons. Yes! The house wine used to be $2.85, but they increased it to $3.50 which is still a drinker's delight.

One afternoon, I had a nice day date there. Beers and food in the sun, followed by walking around to the numerous antique shops and thrift stores in the walkable downtown area. What's better than lunch in the sunny beer garden? The food was very affordable and surprisingly delicious. I ate the "Mama Mia" sandwich, which had grilled eggplant, melted jack, sundried tomato spread, with fresh basil on toast and it came with a side of sliced orange. It hit the spot! My dining companion ate the spinach salad which was very big, with heaping mounds of feta, avacado, olives, tomatoes, and a tasty house-made lemon poppy seed dressing.

My favorite thing is the monthly music calendar that offers one-word descriptions of the bands playing there, creating new genres of music such as "Santana-ish" and "Cool."

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1

12

audra D.

Hayward, CA

5 star rating
08/04/2007

I really enjoy myself at the Bistro.   The owner,bartender,and music are always great.  I've known several bands that have gigged there.   Did you know Train(the band) performed there before they got big?  I'm a pear cider hussy, but have tried the different brews of beer as well.  Only once have I had an unpleasant experience when I came in and was disgusted by the stench of foot BO. It was not a good BO in any way.  My ex use to call it a yuppieville bar, one of the reasons he's an ex, but it is a great place.

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Elite '08

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47

dave y.

San Diego, CA

3 star rating
12/12/2006

Hair spray, camo caps, leather ensembles, hollerin' for Skynrd, cowboy hats... you can find it all here in this East Bay bar. When I came here for a friend's band's last gig, I thought I was back in the South. Yeehaw!

Yet despite the proud patrons' rural fashion sense, a refined hand plays a part in running this Hayward venue. The bar boasts an impressive, albeit pricey array of microbrews and Belgians. I didn't recognize many of the beers, and the bartender patiently offered recommendations, and even offered up a "taste" when I was unsure. The space also sports surprisingly solid acoustics for such a small space, and its live acts calendar is booked. 3.5 stars.

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19

106

Joan S.

CA

4 star rating
06/19/2007

The atmosphere is very local and they have a good selection of beer on tap. I like the cover bands that play there and open mic night. Very good place to go and relax. And its close to my boyfriend's house so we can bike there. I love the Blue Star hefeweizen. Delicious. And the best part is, we went there last night and my boyfriend had to pee and it took him 20 minutes to get in because of the line and I needed to pee afterwards and there was also a line of 3-4 men and they let me in first. I didn't have to wait. Awesome.

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111

Marja M.

Fremont, CA

3 star rating
04/26/2007

Not living a beer and wine lifestyle, this isn't the first choice for me, but I like to support small scale businesses, live local music, etc.

Here's what I know: 1 bathroom stall for everyone, beer poured inexpertly, nice street patio that allows for smokers to do their thing, homeless vagranty wild-eyed people roaming around, eclectic mix of patrons inside (good thing), casual environment, no cover (at least on open mic night).

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8

Jon W.

CA

2 star rating
07/17/2007

I came here to play at the open mic a couple of times and it was awful, so I'm writing this review from the perspective of an open mic performer, not a foodie, townie or beer connoisseur  .  

Everyone sat as far away from the stage as possible with their backs turned towards their own boisterous conversations.  Even the hosts had their own conversations going and no attention was paid to the sound.  I couldn't hear myself and my friends couldn't hear me (even while sitting right in front of me).  If you're expecting an open mic experience like you'll find at The Starry Plough in Berkeley, you won't find it at The Bistro... but you might find a dainty sandwhich and a good beer to enjoy.

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67

592

Rob M.

San Mateo, CA

4 star rating
06/03/2005

A nice bar with live music most every night (no consistency in the acts, one night rock, one night blues, one night world - something for everyone) with good brews and some grub.  The table "cloths" are paper and they give you crayons to amuse the children (or those of you who are children at heart).  Downtown Hayward is slowly revitalizing and getting some variety, worth a visit and lift a pint.

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114

Melissa L.

Redwood City, CA

4 star rating
01/24/2007

I've mainly been here for beer festivals (IPA and Double IPA), but this place is also decent for a chill Sunday afternoon with some good pints.
It could use a MUCH bigger outdoor seating area and WAY fewer windows, though. Who wants to look out on scenic, bustling B Street?

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2

19

Dale G.

Mountain View, CA

3 star rating
01/24/2007

Pros:
* Good, live music throughout the week.  
* Outdoor patio area
* Beer selection

Cons:
* The grunge-looking bartender is easily the slowest bartender I've ever had the displeasure of being served by.  Its best to make your way to the bar when you're halfway through your beer.  You MIGHT get your next one within a few minutes of finishing the current.

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0

9

joe b.

Danville, CA

1 star rating
03/26/2007

Bistro implies it's a small casual French resturant - guess they were too lazy to paint over the old sign or something.

This is definitely old school brew pub - the entire place seats like 8 people including the 4 bar stools right in at the bar counter so you defintely have to be a serious beer drinker. It's right by the rehab place down the street so it's perfect for those guys if they get a check of some kind.

So, if you don't mind sitting in the bartender's lap while he stares at you to finish your glass faster so he can sell you another one - the Bistro is the hovel for you.

So, if you enjoy talking shop with the bartender on homebrew techniques, this place is for you. Most people would prefer a more casual place where they serve beers just as good with actual food, actual restrooms and actual room to sit and linger - and with closer parking - just down the street at Buffalo Bill's.

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Elite '08

76

251

Aivy C.

Hayward, CA

3 star rating
10/02/2006

I've lived in Hayward (almost) all my life, including college - can't believe I've only been to this place all of 3 times, considering how much I drink (disclaimer: on the weekends!) and how far I usually go to drink. But that is bound to change now that my tastes in entertainment have.

Fuck a loud ass, overcrowded club with super pricey weak drinks, crowds of over-perfumed ugly people with the same striped shirts who stay ugly the drunker I get (which is either a reflection on the competence of the bar staff or the kinds of people they let into clubs these days), and a wack ass DJ who swears that "Welcome To Jamrock" (a good song, don't get me wrong) is the epitome of real reggae, because I'm so over that shit - these days, my idea of good entertainment is all about hanging out with friends, meeting people and having actual conversations with them (can't really do that at crowded nightclubs), sharing a few rounds and appreciating good music - which includes live music from people who actually have talent (or have the balls to let other people judge for themselves LIVE) and dont hide behind the recording studio.

So, that said, I've only been to the Bistro all of three times but I have never been disappointed. The music has always been good (I concur with Rob M's statement that they truly have "something for everyone"),  the outdoor section is great for connecting with my friends over a cigarette or two, and they have Guinness on tap - what more could I ask for in a local bar?

Gotta visit more often, though!

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Annie M.

San Leandro, CA

4 star rating
08/14/2006

This place is cool....especially since it is in Hayward. The beer selection is pretty good and they always have something for every type of beer drinker. At first it kind of feels like a locals only bar but once you go and order a beer you find that the crowd and bartenders are inviting and a lot of fun. Funky things like crayons on the table and a wide selection of patrons makes this place a cool hang out. My one complaint is the price...$4.25 for a pint in Hayward is a tad pricey.

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Tom B.

Vacaville, CA

4 star rating
01/07/2006

Great place to hang out with the beats and grab a pint.  Buffalo Bill's is too dressy for me.  The Bistro's got character.

Always a great selection of microbrews.  The music scene is eclectic to say the least--very diverse.  Best place in town for live bands.

Ask Graham, the bartender,  to play a tune for ya on the piano...  the guy is talented.

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453

Brendan M.

San Francisco, CA

4 star rating
08/13/2006

They always seem to have a well rounded beer selection, although its a bit small for my wild taste. I dig the atmosphere, from the small stage, to the crayons on the table, to the outdoor seating. Keep an eye out for their special events like the IPA Festival, they're a blast. It'd be nice if they had a few more beers, either on tap or in bottles. The prices could be a bit more reasonable, but I guess the live music is included in the price of the drink.

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Caitlin H.

San Francisco, CA

3 star rating
09/27/2006

This is a good lunch place. They have reasonably priced sandwiches  ($6.50ish) that are quite good. The "Too Hip for Hayward" is roast beef, red onions, feta and sun dried tomato spread on a nice roll - pretty hip. They had some good coffee too. I would have liked a beer, but it was a working lunch. It looked like they had a wide selection though. The place was pretty dead at lunch, but there were a few local types in there at the bar. The waitress had some scarey tattoos and wasn't real warm and fuzzy, but she got the job done. The Bistro is in a nice neighborhood- kind of a revitalized old town area - with other shops and things on a pedestrian friendly street. The decor reminded me of a place I used to go to in Forest Grove, OR. Kind of pub-like and nostalgic.

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JL M.

Hayward, CA

4 star rating
05/06/2007

Affectionately called "The B" - the Bistro is a focal point for the little burg of Hayward. I'm a person who's not always comfortable in bars and this is more of a neighborhood hangout than a true bar - partly because they only serve beer and wine, partly due to the big open windows and partly because snacks/coffee menu are also provided. They don't have a big selection of beer but what they have is well chosen, unusual and always changing. The big plusses include the wide variety of music styles available and the front patio. On hot days in Summer, the patio is cooled by water misters. The one bathroom is inconvenient but its not that icky. There's rarely a cover for the music which is almost every night. The musicians I know really enjoy playing the home town gig there. Not as noisy as Buffalo Bills down the street and if the band's too loud you can always hang out in the patio out front. If everyone's outside, the band may notice and turn themselves down. A wide variety of people come to the Bistro, a lot of regulars, and a diversity of cultures. Just like real life.

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daniela s.

Berkeley, CA

5 star rating
03/09/2007

as a beer snob, i can tell you with certainty that the beer selection here is EXCELLENT (not decent, not good - EXCELLENT). for the number of taps, i would say they have the best beer selection in the east bay.

there is FREE live music almost EVERY night of the week. there is an outdoor patio where you can bring your beer and have a smoke. the patrons are rowdy and having a great time.

whatelse could you ever want from a bar? yet, yelpers are commenting on the paper tablecloths? give me a freaking break.

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Ingmar B.

Hayward, CA

3 star rating
09/03/2006

When I moved to Hayward I was pretty excited to be able to finally go to the Bistro. I had gone there when I was younger and my boyfriend's older brother used to hang out there frequently. I was pretty disappointed by the attitude of most of the bartenders and patrons. It reminded me a lot of high school. Eck?... There's one guy who's kind of on the bigger side, who's quite nice, but the girls that work there gave me the worst looks. My girl friends get the same attitude from some of them. I'm confused by it, but whatever. They have a great beer selection and I love ipa/pale ales, so this is the place to go for an enjoyable beer. The patrons though, to be polite, can be snooty.

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