What sets it apart

When is a bar not just a bar?  When it's Warehouse Bar & Grill located at 4th and Webster in Oakland, California.  Inside this nondescript building is a lot of heart and good Oakland's last horrific tragedy of 4 slain officers on March  21st,  2009.  Hanging on another wall, will.  Upon entering you'll notice photographs of  Oakland's fallen officers decorating the wall, including is a handcrafted black and white blanket of Oakland officers killed in the line of duty since the departments inception.  There's something compelling about this piece of artwork.  Perhaps it's the photo sized human faces decorating it's perimeter along with the historic revelations articulated within it.  Now you may be thinking, "Jeez, that sounds depressing".  Quite the contrary.  It's inspiring to get a glimpse into the lives these fallen officers gave up. 

Who sets it apart

Michael Dennis, better known as Mike, is the proprietor of the Warehouse.   Noticing the previous owner had no real appreciation for officers in uniform, whether it be police, fire fighters, or military, Mike decided to buy it.  "None of these men and women had a nice place to go where they would be appreciated, so I decided I should buy it from him, and I did".  Not only did he buy the place but made it a point to be part of the community by hosting numerous charity events.  Recently, Mike organized a "Child Safety Fair" with sponsorship from Joe Militelo, who admittedly, was hesitant to have a children's charity event at a bar. Yet, Joe decided to go along with it and was glad he did.  The event had a great turnout and  included NFL players signing autographs, fingerprinting for children, and safety seat installation instructions.  All proceeds went to http://www.marchofdimes.com/.   A raffle was held which included  prizes such as a two night stay at "The Ridge" in Lake Tahoe, dinner for four at Firehouse #8, gift baskets, and even power tools. 

Mike Dennis is a great guy with a big heart and friendly, warm smile.  Seriously.  You couldn't ask for a better man to be in your corner or your local bar, much less the owner.  There's much more to write than this one piece can do justice, therefore, you can look forward to more details on this bar and past charity events  in future articles.  

Renee and Keiko, friendly and efficient bartenders, are quick to keep your drinks full.  The chicken wings coming out of the kitchen are so good you'll seriously think about getting an order to go.  That is no joke.  You can enjoy your wings with a wide selection of beer while watching any one of three large flat screens nicely located throughout the full bar.  This does not include the mounted televisions.  Anywhere you sit, you're sure to catch a number of sporting events.  All in all, you get more than a bar when you visit "Warehouse Bar and Grill".  You get camaraderie, history, good food, good drinks, friendly people and an opportunity to say thanks to our men and women in uniform.  There's a sense of the human spirit within this bar, something you may not want to miss out on.  Hours of operation are 7 days a week from 11:am - 2:am.