Tried a different poker room in the area. The Oaks Card Club in Emeryville, CA. It was about a 12-15 minute ride from the Golden Gate race track.
Not being familiar with the game type, but I played in what was called 1-2-3 NL, which means the BB is $3, the SB is $2, and Button is $1. The rake is still $6 (5+1) and is taken after the flop, but the game plays much bigger, thus the early rake withdraw is of much smaller consequence. If the SB and BB chop, the $1 button contribution is taken. Six dollar straddles were allowed in ANY position, including the blinds. The winner of a hand was given the first option to straddle in the next hand. High hands were $100 per hour. Didn't count the number of poker tables, as they had some other (non-slot) casino options, but would say 8+. Games were 9-handed. At the start of a new dealer, the table was given the option to do a $10 Bomb pot, which to date, I have remained a virgin.
No food options, but it would seem a local pizza shop brings in a large pie and cans of soda about every 60-90 minutes. Parking lot can be hard to find a spot, but has security folks patrolling it, and it was well-lit at night. I would assess the room as friendly, and well-run.
I lost $250, but will give it another go after the live GG races today.
