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ZipPicks Awards
Best Burgers in Pleasanton
Best Happy Hour Wings in Pleasanton
Best Family Friendly American in Pleasanton
Best Business Lunch Steakhouse in Pleasanton
Best Business Lunch American in Pleasanton
Best Sandwiches in Pleasanton
Best BBQ Ribs in Pleasanton
Best French Fries in Pleasanton
Best Wings in Pleasanton
Best American in Pleasanton
Master Critic Review
SideTrack Bar + Grill
8.3
Founded by longtime Pleasanton resident Todd Utikal, this modern American grill brings handcrafted burgers and weekly smoked meats to a prime downtown location near the farmers market. Two large dog-friendly patios with fire pits, local craft beers, and creative small plates elevate the neighborhood bar concept.
Must-Try Dishes:
Hangover Burger, Tater Todds, Cubano Sandwich
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 8.5
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 8.6
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Owner-operated with creative burgers and two covered dog-friendly patios
Who should go: Dog owners and groups seeking elevated bar food outdoors
When to visit: Saturday farmers market mornings, Sunday brunch, SINGO nights
What to order: Hangover Burger, Tater Todds appetizer, weekly smoked brisket
Insider tip: The weekly smoke menu features tri-tip on Mondays and Wednesdays
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Angela St and nearby downtown streets. Close to the farmers market lot on Saturdays which fills early. Arrive before noon on market days or park a block away on Main St.
Dress code: Casual California - jeans, sundresses, shorts all appropriate. The patio vibe is relaxed. Come as you are from the farmers market or a morning walk with your dog.
Noise level: Moderate - the outdoor patios allow for easy conversation. Inside can get livelier during events like SINGO. Fire pit seating is particularly pleasant for chatting.
Weekend wait: 20-30 min on nice evenings when patios fill up. Call ahead for groups of 8+
Weekday lunch: No wait typically - closed Tuesdays, otherwise walk right in
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - salads, vegetarian small plates, veggie burger option, several appetizers work without meat
Vegan options: Limited - salads without cheese, some appetizers modifiable. Vegan items are labeled on menu. Ask server for current options.
Gluten-free options: Yes - gluten-free bun available for burgers (reportedly very good), salads, many appetizers GF-friendly. Staff familiar with dietary needs.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Great casual date spot - the fire pit patios create ambiance without pretension, and the food gives you something to share and discuss. Saturday evening after the farmers market winds down is particularly nice. More relaxed than Beer Baron, more polished than a sports bar.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes for most visits - no reservations needed for small groups. Call ahead for parties of 8 or more. The two patios offer plenty of seating. Peak times are Saturday evenings and Sunday brunch - arrive by 6pm Saturday or expect a short wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes - owner Todd designed it as a family-friendly neighborhood spot. Kids menu available, relaxed patio atmosphere where families are common. The open outdoor space lets kids move a bit. Perfect for post-farmers-market family lunch.
Can I bring my dog? Absolutely - both patios are dog-friendly and it's a popular spot for dog owners. Water bowls available. The fire pit patio on cooler evenings is particularly nice for settling in with your pup. One of the most dog-welcoming restaurants in downtown Pleasanton.
What's SINGO? Musical bingo night - songs play and you mark your card when you recognize them. Fun, interactive, draws a good crowd. Check their social media for the schedule, typically weeknight evenings. Halloween-themed versions and other special editions throughout the year.
Best For
Better for: Dog owners, outdoor dining enthusiasts, and groups wanting a relaxed atmosphere with legitimately good food. The two patios with fire pits beat any other downtown outdoor dining. The weekly smoke menu (brisket, tri-tip) adds variety you won't find at typical burger spots.
Skip if: You want to watch the big game (limited TVs, not a sports-first spot) or need dinner on Tuesday (closed). For sports viewing, hit The Neighborhood or Sunshine Saloon. For late-night drinks and DJ scene, Beer Baron is better. SideTrack is about relaxed quality.
Hours
Monday11am - 8pm
TuesdayClosed
Wednesday11am - 8pm
Thursday11am - 8pm
Friday11am - 9pm
Saturday10am - 9pm
Sunday10am - 8pm