The Lakeshore district apparently was in dire need of a classy joint, which explains why the Easy Lounge has become so popular since it opened last fall. The Easy transformed what used to be a grungy dive bar into an urban retreat with high ceilings, wire-cage cabinets showing off a fully stocked bar, funky lighting, and artsy decor that give it a vibe of being both neighborhoody and a destination spot. As the new scene to be seen in, customers floss appropriately. But in true Oakland style, the mix includes doe-eyed hipster chicks, suave urbanites, eccentric locals, and even suits just off from work. The Easy ensures a healthy mingling of folks of many stripes thanks to different DJ themes each night — from rockabilly to salsa, ’80s to funk. No matter what definition of Oakland you subscribe to, you’re likely to find a friendly face here — even if it’s the hot door guy.
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