Best Oakland Raider fan hangout: Ricky's in San Leandro

October 5, 1:11 AMOakland Raiders ExaminerPatrick Patterson

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If you are a citizen of the Raider Nation and have never been to Ricky's Sports Theatre and Grill in San Leandro, the question is why?

Ricky's is a shrine to the Oakland Raiders, and is considered the headquarters of the Raider Nation. With the exception of the numerous HDTVs, the rest of the decor is all memorabilia from the legends of the Oakland Raiders. From Jim Otto through today's stars, they are represented on the walls of Ricky's. They probably have the biggest collection of Raiders mementos outside of the Hall of Fame.

Ricky's was ranked the #2 sports bar in the country by Sports Illustrated in a 2005 edition. They key to their success is their famous "No knuckleheads" policy. Owner Ricky Ricardo stresses that it is a family-friendly environment.

The "No Knucklehead Policy" is strictly enforced, making Ricky's the kind of place you can ALWAYS bring the kids, the wife, the girlfriend. Where else can you see hardcore Broncos fans and Raiders fans together both having a good time on a Sunday afternoon?!

In fact, I was there for the pregame party on the Saturday before the Raiders-Chargers game and some guy walked in wearing a LaDainian Tomlinson jersey. He took some ribbing, but he was not jumped despite the reputation of Raider fans.

The Saturday night parties at Ricky's are a blast. It is a chance to hang out with Raider friends -- even if they weren't yet your friends when you walked in, they will be by the time you take off. There is a $10 cover charge, but they close off the parking lot so there is ample space for all. Outside there is a DJ with fresh barbecue being cooked. By the end of the night the place is rocking out to Raiderhed.

If you are in the Raider Nation and not in the Bay Area, next time you come to Oakland for a game, be sure to head out to Ricky's in San Leandro. You will not regret it.

Here's a sample of Raiderhed rocking out at Ricky's with their hit song "Niner Hater":