Nosh readers cast their votes in December, and the results of the 2024 Nosh Awards are in. Here is the complete lineup of 2024 award announcements. Congratulations to all of the winners!
2024 nosh Awards
If you break down what makes a great bar to its essential elements, two of those things would be a convivial atmosphere and exceptional cocktails. The East Bay’s best bar in 2024, as voted by Nosh readers, does a superb job at both.
Dan Stone and Lee Smith launched North Light in Temescal in 2019 with an airy back patio, good food, and a bookstore curated by Bay Area authors and artists (e.g. Samin Nosrat, Patti Smith, George Saunders, Michael Chabon). Originally open all day, North Light fought through the pandemic, and has now honed its hours down to seven days a week, 5 p.m. to midnight.
As Temescal has slowly rebuilt its vibrant nightlife scene following the strict lockdowns and wave of closures, North Light has evolved into a favorite for its consistent good vibes and expertly-crafted drinks.
“Great bar and amazing cocktails! Kind staff that make me feel welcomed,” a voter commented, reflecting sentiments found among many of the North Light supporters who applauded the atmosphere that attracts queer and non-binary folks.
Lead bartender Zach Edwards got shout-outs from multiple voters, and the espresso martini and whiskey sour were also noted by North Light’s champions.
“Nice vibe and excellent cocktail,” a voter commented. “Never a bad drink from Zachary. Consistent and delicious!”
And, of course, a good bar should be a place where meeting your true love is always a possibility.
“Best first date and second date and third date bar,” one voter commented.
Club Mallard, Low Bar, Missouri Lounge, Prizefighter and Viridian were also competing in the best bar overall category in the 2024 Nosh Awards.
