Palmetto, that hotly anticipated new tropical cocktail bar and steakhouse, is finally thundering open in Uptown Oakland. It’s the latest project from Christ Aivaliotis and Matt Reagan, the guys behind Kon-Tiki. Another unexpected delay from the pandemic, the restaurant was on the brink of opening in March. But two months later, today is finally the day. Palmetto is now open for takeout and delivery only, serving up rum drinks and ribeye to go.
The takeout menu looks just as rum-washed and meaty as promised. A floral depot punch features rum, clarified milk, hibiscus, lime, and warm spices ($24 for 2 servings). The grilled ribeye steak is rubbed down with cumin and topped with chimichurri butter, and served with fried potatoes and aioli on the side ($50 for 12 oz). And in addition to hard drinks, steaks, and chops, there is also a delightful wine list with sparkles and rosé, plus a dino kale salad and crispy cauliflower side. Check out the menus, below.
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Palmetto is taking over the old Flora Space in the art deco Oakland Floral Depot building near the historic Fox Theater. Wylie Price Design totally reimagined the 2,700-square-foot space, punching it up with pastel colors, neon lights, and lush plants. The sister bar next door, which will be called the Kon-Tiki Room at Palmetto, is going to wait a beat before opening. For now, until we are all lounging in beautiful booths with tropical drinks once more, please enjoy a few teaser photos of the beautiful new space.
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Palmetto is now open at 1900 Telegraph Ave, Monday to Saturday from 4 to 8 p.m., for takeout and delivery only. Call 510-817-4002 to place orders for pickup.