Umami Mart is a very cool place and a favorite hangout spot in Oakland. It is a fun shop and a very cute local market with a fantastic small bar in the back. The shop is clean and well organized, featuring a small selection of beautiful, simple houseware items and a massive wall of Japanese liquors, including imported and specialty whiskey and sake. There are all kinds of unique finds from household goods to alcohol bottles to wall decor to ice imported from Japan, from kitsch to home goods. The bar is small, very specialized, and packed, with just enough seats and tables to feel like you're at home. The team is knowledgeable, helpful, and clearly passionate, with some of the coolest bartenders in the area spinning great records. They provide great suggestions and everyone knows what they're talking about and loves what they do. They hold special events like sake release parties and anniversary parties. There is street parking or neighborhood parking, and it is a 13 minute walk from the MacArthur station BART. The bar has limited hours. They have a mailing list and you can keep updated on social media for the latest happenings.
Loved the displayed stuff. Definitely not inexpensive. I wish I could afford more of the stuff.
January 2024
Very cool place where everyone knows what they're talking about and loves what they do. One of the guys even recommended local restaurants near me (was only in the area to visit someone) that hold great sake.
September 2023
Fantastic experience with my wife. Thank you for the personal service, Kayoko. Your business is a gem.
