T2

They just lost their liquor license for at least a year.

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Went to T2 last night for my boyfriend's coworker's birthday. I see that people have really been bashing on this place. But it really isn't that bad for what it is. I think people are comparing this place to the American bars, etc. But come on, it's owned by Chinese people. How awesome or modern is it going to be?

It seems like people all paid different prices for drinks (?). Our entire party got free rounds of beers (well, the boss paid for it), there was no cover charge, shots were $7.00 each, and cocktails were $9.00 each, so it wasn't horribly expensive, but not cheap either. However, their cocktail drinks are just ok. The bartender made me a green tea cocktail and it was literally a mixture of two shots of different alcohol, and then topped off with Itoen Green Tea. Not bad, but not very creative as well. As others have mentioned, there is no beer on tap. The bar is literally just a bar... No soda , no beer on tap.

This place isn't the nicest place. Dark room with lots of couches and very minimalistic decor. However, there is LOTS of room to sit. That's one plus I'll give this place. There is pretty much enough couch seating for everybody in the place, which can be a lot better than going to other bars and having trouble finding a place to sit. And this place doesn't get super packed.

Some funnier things I noticed are that they play music videos here.. And they all look like they were just recorded off of BET. Pretty "gangster" music for a Chinese bar. But hey, when you're getting buzzed, the music makes it more fun. Also, everything here is from Ikea. It's pretty funny taking shots, drinking cocktails, having chasers, ashing your cigarettes and thinking "damn, I have all of these cups at my house." Also, as Amy D. mentioned, the "signs" outside for this place are pretty ghetto. They simply printed "T2" on white 8.5x11 paper.. funny funny funny.

Another thing I know is that people hate the fact that they allow smoking in here, which isn't a problem since I am a social smoker myself. But if people have problems with the smoking, don't come here. Because honestly, almost all Asian people smoke. And it's cool to not have to get up and go outside in the cold to smoke. I almost think I'm in Asia again.

Overall, I'm giving this place three stars. It's one of those places where it is what it is. They're not trying to be a hip ultra lounge. On the contrary, it's just a more chill place for the Chinese kids to sit back, drink, and play their games while drinking. This wouldn't be my place to go out necessarily, but it's not bad for what it is. And I have to admit, it was sort of refreshing being around a bunch of Chinese people. A big change from the downtown SJ/SF scene.

The drinks are not cheap, but T2 is the only place that allow indoor smoking and KTV near San Mateo.  I know the owner and the bartender there so maybe I am a bit biased. Different stroke for different people overall, but I always have a good time at T2.

Just know what you are getting yourself into, then you might just enjoy what it offers.  

ps. i quit smoking though, stupid decision but I can relate. =)