By Dana Eastland. The Hive, a new mixed-use complex in Uptown Oakland, had two new restaurant openings, the Business Times reports. First up is a new Mexican restaurant called CALAVERA. The huge project (it seats 150) comes from partners Jessica Sackler (Coqueta and José Andrés’s Oyamel in Washington, D.C.), Michael Iglesias (Coqueta, Bottega, and Oyamel), and Chris Pastena (Chop Bar and Lungomare).
A full bar is stocked to the gills with more than 400 different types of mezcal and tequila, and plenty of cocktails. There is a variety of margaritas, including the Sandia with Pierde Almas mezcal, watermelon, cilantro, lime, chile pequín, and salt, or try the Salt Air, with Milagro blanco tequila, Luxardo Triplum, lime, and salt.
Chef Christian Irabien crafted the menu, which offers a selection of snacks, including guacamole (of course) and Chihuahua cheese dip served hot with huitlacoche. There is a selection of ceviche, and tacos served on nixtamal heirloom corn tortillas. Look for the lamb sweetbreads taco or the cochinita pibil. There are also larger plates, including birria and a whole red snapper. Plus chef Joe Raffa, who worked with the opening team at Oyamel, is out to help open the restaurant with them. Hours are Sun-Thu 5:30pm-10pm and Fri-Sat 5:30pm-11pm. 2337 Broadway at 24th St., Oakland, 510-338-3273.
Also open is DRAKE’S DEALERSHIP from San Leandro-based Drake’s Brewing Company. The huge pub seats 350, including a large beer garden with fire pits and a stage for live music acts.
Taylor Smith (Local Kitchen & Wine Merchant, Jasper’s Corner Tap) is the executive chef, and the menu is all about classic bar food. They’ve got a pizza oven, so there’s a selection of pizzas, as well as a burger, a vegetarian black bean burger, some salads, french fries, and snacks. Eater has a copy of the menu to peek at.
The beer is from Drake’s, of course. There are 32 beers on tap, including some limited releases that can’t be found anywhere else. Drake’s classic brews will always be available, but you’ll also have the chance to try some limited and experimental options. They’ve even got three wines on tap, a white, a red, and even a sparkler. Bar hours are Sun-Wed 11:30am-1pm and Thu-Sat 11:30am-1am; the kitchen is open Sun-Wed 11:30am-10pm and Thu-Sat 11:30am-11pm. 2325 Broadway at 23rd St., Oakland, 510-833-6649.
The bar at Calavera. Photo courtesy of Calavera.
