About Fluid510
Fluid510 is a new multi-level nightclub and event space in Oakland’s Uptown/downtown corridor (1544 Broadway). The 5,000-square-foot venue was created by Port Bar owners Richard Fuentes and Sean Sullivan, who envisioned a “fluid” flexible space serving Oakland’s diverse community (www.ebar.com ) (sesh.sx ). In fact, the name “Fluid” refers to the club’s shape-shifting, inclusive attitude and “510” nods to the local area code (www.ebar.com ) (www.ebar.com ). The interior blends modern design with Oakland history: large communal tables and bar counters sit on recycled redwood floors salvaged from the old Oakland Army Base, and custom metal partitions were fabricated by local artists (www.ebar.com ) (eastbayexpress.com ). Patrons describe it as an elegant, plant-filled lounge bar (even likening it to a boutique hotel lobby) with towering 21-foot ceilings, marble-topped furniture, and Restoration Hardware fixtures (www.ebar.com ) (eastbayexpress.com ). Fluid510 is LGBTQ-friendly by design, welcoming all (Fuentes himself says, “we stand for gay, for straight, for everyone in the community” (www.cbsnews.com )). With two fully equipped bars, a full kitchen and seating, and room for roughly 200–250 people (www.ebar.com ) (www.peerspace.com ), it stands as one of Oakland’s largest new nightlife venues and a key hub in the city’s nightlife revival.
Events and Programming
Fluid510 hosts a wide variety of events nearly every night. Common programming includes comedy shows, dance parties, drag brunches, trivia and themed nights, plus concerts by DJs and live performers. For example, it runs multiple weekly comedy nights under the “Hella Funny/510 Stand-Up Comedy” series (typically Thursday through Sunday) (fluid510.com ). There are often R&B or funk-themed dance nights (the venue calls one “Bounce House – A House Music Dance Party”) (fluid510.com ), plus drinks-and-song karaoke and pop-culture trivia brunches on weekends (fluid510.com ) (fluid510.com ). Specialty events have included drag king shows, queer dance parties, and holiday events like New Year’s Eve masquerade parties. Notably, the grand opening in May 2023 featured live jazz and flamenco performances, drag royalty Crystal Waters, local hip-hop icon Kev Choice, aerialists, DJs and dancing (eastbayexpress.com ) (eastbayexpress.com ). Owner Sean Sullivan emphasizes that Fluid510 “is not just a watering hole” but a full nightclub intended to celebrate Oakland with a broad mix of entertainment (eastbayexpress.com ). The calendar often mingles national headliners and local talent – past acts have included international DJs like Honey Dijon or Ultra Naté and top Bay Area drag performers – with recurring community events. (As one patron put it: “One day it’s R&B dancing, the next it’s a stand-up comedy set or a full-blown drag performance…It’s not just a restaurant or lounge. It’s an experience.” (wanderlog.com ).) Cover charges and ticket prices vary: many comedy shows list tickets around $15–$20 each (fluid510.com ), while special live gigs or themed parties may cost more. Fluid510’s official event calendar or social media typically announces tickets via Eventbrite or similar platforms. The venue often sells out, so advance booking is recommended.
Tickets and Booking
Most Fluid510 events use online ticketing. Visit Oakland’s website notes that comedy and entertainment events are ticketed through Eventbrite or partner sites (fluid510.com ) (www.opentable.com ). There is no traditional box office counter; instead, tickets go on sale via the club’s website or event listings. Dinner and brunch reservations can be made via OpenTable or directly with the restaurant, especially for weekend brunch service. According to the OpenTable listing, Fluid510 has happy hour daily and hosts special brunch events (like trivia brunches on 1st/3rd Saturdays and a monthly Drag Brunch) (www.opentable.com ). Because popular events often sell out quickly – the space was “already booked out with sold-out events” soon after opening (www.ebar.com ) – it’s wise to buy ahead. When purchasing tickets, you can expect a range of prices: comedy and club nights tend to be in the teens ($15–$20), while a night out (food and drink included) might run higher (OpenTable notes average tabs up to ~$30 (www.opentable.com )).
Seating and Layout
Fluid510’s layout is largely open-plan. On the ground floor you’ll find a large central dance floor and two main bars. Guests often stand or sit at high-top tables around this area (wanderlog.com ). There is a small seating lounge near the entrance and additional tables lining the main floor. The upstairs level offers a split mezzanine: one section is a raised VIP lounge (with couch seating and bottle service) and the other is a smaller stage/room for events like stand-up or acoustic sets (www.eventguru.com ) (wanderlog.com ). In general, seating is unassigned and first-come. If you want to see a performance, the closest spots are near the stage (on the main floor or right off it) – but many people also prefer dancing up close. For quieter viewing, the upstairs seating can be booked or secured early (note one reviewer mentioning the comedy “club is upstairs” with a small table minimum (wanderlog.com )). Sound and sightlines are good throughout: the venue’s state-of-the-art sound system and dynamic lighting cover both levels (www.eventective.com ). (There are no bad views if you stay on the same level as the action.)
Getting There and Parking
Fluid510 is at 1544 Broadway between 15th and 16th Streets in downtown Oakland. It’s easily reached by public transit: the nearest BART station is 19th Street/Oakland (about a 5-minute walk to Broadway) (www.cbsnews.com ), and several AC Transit bus lines run along Broadway and nearby streets. If driving, street parking is metered but very limited – one Observer review candidly warns it can be “very difficult to find parking” in the area (wanderlog.com ). There are commercial garages a few blocks away (near City Center and theaters) but they fill up fast on event nights. Many guests opt for rideshare or valet drops (the front door on Broadway is a convenient drop-off point). Free parking is scarce, so allow extra time if you drive. Once on Broadway, the building’s distinctive exterior and signage should be obvious; look for the address 1544. Most visitors simply exit public transit or get dropped off and head in, since walking a block or two from 19th Street BART is quick and safe.
Inside the Venue
Expect a slick, clubby atmosphere inside. Guests enter through a lobby/lounging area with comfortable seating and plants. There is a coat-check stand upon request (not officially advertised but staff will often hold a coat). ID is checked when entering on any alcohol-serving night. Security or a host may scan tickets or wristbands as you come in – be prepared to show IDs. Once inside, you’ll find multiple bars serving cocktails, beer and wine, with an emphasis on creative, craft-style drinks (sf.eater.com ) (eastbayexpress.com ). In fact, the cocktail menu features clever twists (e.g. a “Coco Fizz” with coconut rum or a “Mandarin 75” with orange vodka (sf.eater.com ) (eastbayexpress.com )). Non-alcoholic mocktails are also available (Blueberry Mojito, Mint Berry Fizz, etc) (eastbayexpress.com ), and bottle service with premium wines/spirit is offered for groups in the VIP lounge. A full kitchen is open: during evenings they serve an “elevated bar food” menu (wood-fired pizzas, small plates, and shareable entrées). Dishes might include, for example, grilled octopus or an eggplant moussaka – in fact, the owners emphasize a hearty vegetarian moussaka as a signature (eastbayexpress.com ). There is also a daytime brunch menu on weekends (11am–2pm) with salads, sandwiches, and brunch cocktails. The restrooms (including an ADA-accessible stall) are located on the main floor and upstairs; staff keep them clean during busy nights. Free Wi-Fi is provided for guests (www.eventective.com ) (so you can check the event listings or post on social media). Throughout the night the energy builds – on club nights music is loud and lighting dynamic, whereas on brunch days it’s bright and festive. Service is mainly at the bar, though staff do circulate with drink orders to wait areas. There is no firm dress code beyond casual; patrons mix from stylish club attire to relaxed streetwear. In short, Fluid510 operates like a modern dance club – look for friendly bartenders, a polished sound-and-light show, and a party-ready vibe on the floor.
Nearby Amenities
Fluid510 sits in the heart of Oakland’s downtown, so dining and entertainment options abound within walking distance. Directly next door or a block away are casual eateries and bars popular with pre- or post-show crowds. For example, east of Fluid510 on Broadway is Southern Pacific Brewing (in the Marriott City Center) for brewpub fare, and a few doors down are fast-casual spots like pizza slices and sandwich shops. A block north at 19th & Broadway you’ll find Shakewell (Mediterranean share-plates) and the popular LPF Soda Consignment for snacks. To the east around 16th/17th you’ll see mouth-watering lines at Sol Food (Puerto Rican comfort food) and Pancho’s Taqueria. Upscale restaurants are also nearby – the City Center (around 10th & Franklin) hosts Howard’s Steakhouse and Miel (American/Mediterranean cuisine). On Broadway itself are several convenient fast-food and coffee spots for take-out. For drinks, nearby bars include nearby Social Hall (across the street on 15th), or Foragers Brewing just a few blocks away. The Paramount Theatre (at 20th & Broadway) has more dining around it as well. Several hotels line Broadway: the Oakland Marriott City Center is a block south, the courtyard Marriott and Hilton are up the hill on 12th Street, and the Hyatt Place at 1st & Broadway is about 8 blocks east. If flying in, Oakland Airport is about 15–20 minutes away and SFO/Mueller is reachable via BART. Overall, arriving early to explore the Uptown neighborhood’s shops and restaurants is easy, and late-night rideshare or BART home operate well into the wee hours.
What Makes This Venue Special
Fluid510 is unique on many levels. Architecturally, it marries chic modern design with local heritage – the Army-base hardwood floors and custom metalwork are unlike anything else in Oakland nightlife (www.ebar.com ) (eastbayexpress.com ). Culturally, it fills a critical gap in Oakland’s scene. News outlets credit Fluid510 as a sign of an LGBTQ nightlife renaissance in Oakland (www.cbsnews.com ): it’s the kind of “hometown watering spot” diversity advocates say the city needed (www.cbsnews.com ). The venue’s mission is clearly more than business; it’s about community-building. The owners have spoken of creating a place where “you see people hugging — old, young, some gay, some straight” under one roof (eastbayexpress.com ). Practically, it offers things that were rare on Broadway: high-quality cocktails and music, a full kitchen with vegetarian options, and ample space for dancing. Early reviews have praised Fluid510 as a “beacon of queer joy” and noted its inclusive atmosphere and feeling of belonging (www.ebar.com ) (wanderlog.com ). Economically, it boosts downtown foot traffic; Oakland’s tourism board reports a significant uptick in visitors as new bars like Fluid510 draw crowds (www.cbsnews.com ). In short, both locals and performers love it for its energy and inclusivity. It’s not just another bar – it’s a state-of-the-art nightclub, community hub and restaurant all in one, rooted in Oakland pride (sesh.sx ) (wanderlog.com ).
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: Fluid510 is ADA-accessible and wheelchair-friendly (www.eventective.com ) (www.peerspace.com ). There are ramps/level entrances and accessible restrooms. Service animals are welcome. What to bring: Always carry a valid photo ID (they check 21+ status for evening events). Bag checks may occur, so avoid oversized backpacks. Announce any food allergies to staff; the kitchen does handle diverse diets (including veg and vegan). Arrival: Plan to arrive at least 30–45 minutes before a big show. Doors typically open an hour or so before events; for example, comedy shows often start at 7pm. This gives time to find parking (if driving) and grab a drink. Note that street parking is scarce – one regular joked in a review that finding parking is “very difficult” (wanderlog.com ) – so consider transit or rideshare. Happy Hour: Fluid510 offers happy hour drink specials every day until 6pm (www.opentable.com ). Reviewers particularly recommend the happy hour food (truffle fries, sliders and other small plates) – one local called it “one of the best happy hour spots in Oakland” (wanderlog.com ). If you’re on a budget, hit happy hour or early dinner. Food & Drink Tips: Try the house specialties: the “pizza The Belly” (smoked mozzarella, pork belly) and the custom cocktails like the Mandarin 75 or mint Berry Fizz are crowd favorites (www.ubereats.com ) (eastbayexpress.com ). If you avoid alcohol, the creative mocktail list (Blueberry Mojito, etc.) is a standout (eastbayexpress.com ). Behavior: Fluid510 fosters an inclusive, respectful atmosphere. The staff enforces a strict non-discrimination policy. Common-sense club etiquette applies: feel free to dance your heart out, tip the bartenders, and mingle. Photography is allowed for personal use, but be mindful during performances or drag shows (no flash).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the capacity and layout of Fluid510?
Fluid510 is a two-story nightclub/restaurant of about 5,000 sq ft that holds roughly 200–250 people (www.ebar.com ) (www.peerspace.com ). It has a large open dance floor on the main level with two full bars and seating along the sides. Upstairs is a mezzanine lounge with additional seating (often used for VIP tables or comedy shows). There are no fixed theater seats – most tables and spots are first-come.
What types of events happen at Fluid510?
Fluid510’s calendar is packed with diverse programming. Typical events include recurring stand-up comedy nights (the “Hella Funny/510 Comedy” series) (fluid510.com ), dance parties (e.g. house or R&B-themed nights) (fluid510.com ), drag shows and drag brunches, trivia and karaoke brunches, and live-DJ DJ music sets. They also host special gala events and holiday parties. The variety means one night you might see a comedy show, and the next it’s a high-energy dance party (wanderlog.com ).
How do I purchase tickets or reserve a table?
Ticketed events at Fluid510 are sold online; there is no walk-up box office. For shows (comedy, dance parties, etc.), tickets are usually sold via Fluid510’s official site or partner event sites (such as Eventbrite) (fluid510.com ). The OpenTable listing notes that comedy show tickets must be bought online (www.opentable.com ). For dining or weekend brunch, you can reserve tables through the restaurant’s reservation system (OpenTable or direct booking). For popular nights, it’s best to buy early or make reservations in advance.
Is Fluid510 wheelchair accessible?
Yes. Fluid510 is ADA-compliant and wheelchair accessible (www.eventective.com ) (www.peerspace.com ). The entrance and interior spaces are step-free, and accessible restrooms are available on site. Service animals are welcome. If you need any special accommodations, you can ask the staff or call ahead for assistance.
What is the dress code?
The dress code at Fluid510 is casual (www.opentable.com ). Guests typically wear comfortable club attire – jeans, shirts, dresses, etc. There’s no formal requirement. Dress nicely enough for a nightclub setting, but you don’t need formal wear. The venue is lively and fun, so most people dress to move comfortably.
Are children allowed inside Fluid510?
Fluid510 is primarily an adult venue. Evening entertainment events (especially those with alcohol or after 9pm) are generally 21+ only. Weekend brunch events may allow younger guests if accompanied by an adult, but this is at management’s discretion. It’s safest to assume (and plan) that most nights are 21+ unless specifically advertised as family-friendly daytime events.
Is there parking available?
Street parking in downtown Oakland along Broadway and side streets is metered but very limited. Visitors often report that it’s “very difficult to find parking” nearby (wanderlog.com ). Your best bet is to use a nearby paid garage (for example, the Citiplace garages on 15th or Grand Ave). Many people prefer taking BART (19th Street station) or a rideshare. If you do drive, allow extra time to find a spot.
How late and on which days is Fluid510 open?
Fluid510’s hours vary by day. According to their official listing, the club opens in the late afternoon or evening on weekdays, and offers brunch on weekends (www.opentable.com ). Typically the schedule is: Wed–Thu 4pm–9pm, Fri–Sat 4pm–2am, and Sun 11am–9pm (www.opentable.com ). (The exact hours can change for holidays or private events, so check their schedule if you plan a visit.)
What kind of food is served at Fluid510?
Fluid510 has a full kitchen serving a California/Mediterranean-inspired menu (www.eventguru.com ) (eastbayexpress.com ). Expect elevated bar fare: gourmet pizzas (e.g. The Italiano or The Belly with truffle oil and pork belly), share plates, salads, and sandwiches. The cuisine is described as chef-driven “California meets Mediterranean” (www.eventguru.com ). There are plenty of vegetarian/vegan options (their eggplant moussaka was specifically designed as a hearty meat-free dish (eastbayexpress.com )). The menu is topped off by craft cocktails, local beers and an extensive wine list.
Are there options for non-drinkers or those with dietary restrictions?
Yes. The drink menu explicitly includes creative non-alcoholic mocktails (e.g. Blueberry Mojito, Mint Berry Fizz, Shirley Ginger) for those who don’t drink (eastbayexpress.com ). The food menu was designed with inclusion in mind – beyond vegetarian entrées like moussaka (eastbayexpress.com ), many dishes can be modified for vegans or those avoiding gluten (e.g., salads, fritters). Always inform your server of any allergies; the kitchen is used to accommodating dietary needs.
Is there a coat check or storage available?
Fluid510 doesn’t prominently advertise a coat check. In practice, the environment is fairly informal (Oakland rarely needs heavy coats at night). If you arrive with jackets or small bags, the staff will usually find a spot to hang or hold them. For valuables, it’s safest to keep personal items on you (the lounge seating or tables) as you enjoy the event.
What is the Wi-Fi and cell phone situation inside Fluid510?
Free Wi-Fi is available inside Fluid510 (www.eventective.com ). Feel free to connect on your phone to check schedules or stream music for a table. Cell service is generally good in this downtown area, so you can expect normal 4G/5G coverage as well. Phones are allowed, though some performances (e.g. live music or drag shows) may request no flash photography out of courtesy to the performers.
Who owns and operates Fluid510?
Fluid510 is owned by Richard “Ritchie” Fuentes and Sean Sullivan, a New York-raised Oakland couple who also founded the Port Bar (one of Oakland’s popular LGBTQ bars) in 2016 (eastbayexpress.com ). They are well-known figures in the local nightlife community and built Fluid510 as their larger follow-up project to serve more patrons and a wider variety of events. (eastbayexpress.com )
What was at the 1544 Broadway location before Fluid510?
This building has a long history. It was originally part of the Oakland Capwell’s department store in the early 1900s, and later was home to various clubs. Just before Fluid510, the space was occupied by a short-lived club called The Empire. Fluid510’s design actually pays homage to that legacy by reusing hardwood from the old Oakland Army Base barracks in its floors (www.ebar.com ), blending new interiors with local history.
Does Fluid510 host private events or conferences?
Yes. In addition to public events, Fluid510 is available to rent for private functions (weddings, corporate events, fundraisers, etc.). It’s marketed as a 5,000 sq ft event venue with in-house sound/lighting and catering options (www.eventguru.com ). The staff can set up areas for seated dinners, stage presentations, or cocktail parties. You can contact the venue directly to book private events and customize the space.
How is Fluid510 impacting Oakland’s community?
Fluid510 has quickly become a symbol of Oakland’s nightlife revival. Local media describe it as evidence of an LGBTQ “renaissance” in the city (www.cbsnews.com ). Community leaders note that new venues like this keep more people (and tourism dollars) in Oakland – Visit Oakland reported double-digit boosts in tourism spending as nightlife grows (www.cbsnews.com ). It also fills a social need: for many locals (especially people of color and LGBTQ+ folks who felt unwelcomed in SF bars), Fluid510 provides a safe, inclusive “home” club with diverse entertainment (www.cbsnews.com ). Cultural impact aside, it’s simply brought more energy to downtown nights and created jobs for Oaklanders at the bar, kitchen and in its events production.
