Berkeleyside Nosh reports that West Berkeley has a new restaurant and bar, from partners Roland Robles and Jennifer Seideman. Robles, who owns the popular Fivetenburger truck, is running the kitchen, while Seideman, owner of Acme Bar & Company, is running the bar. The food menu is simple and small, with mac and cheese, burgers, a salad, and a small dessert. Though the menu may expand in the coming months, Robles intends to keep it small, simple, and good. The bar has a similar focus on simplicity and quality. Seideman wants to offer simple cocktails with quality spirits, so your bartender can focus on offering good service to the neighborhood regulars.
The space is set up more like a bar than a restaurant, though there is plenty of seating and all ages are welcome before 8pm. The bar itself is a remnant from a previous tenant, and it is a dramatic one, with wooden columns and large mirrors. They’ve also invested in some beautiful glassware and vintage silver-plated utensils, which are nice details that elevate the whole experience. As for that name, which is prominently displayed via the front marquee, it is indeed all about the mustache: Robles rocks a pretty serious handlebar. 984 University Ave. at 9th Ave., 510-484-5360.
The bar at Handlebar. Photo from Facebook.