BARTable: A Day Guide to Jack London

Tag: Places

Hop Off BART and Into Jack London: Oakland's Oldest Commercial District

Did our new ad catch your eye on BART?  That’s your sign. Whether you're coming from across the Bay or just a few stops away, Jack London is calling your name—and it's closer than you think. Hop off BART at 12th Street or Lake Merritt station, then take a 10-minute stroll toward the waterfront. You’ll know you’ve arrived when the city noise fades into estuary breezes and the vibe shifts to something unmistakably Jack London: artistic, urban, and full of flavor.

Click here to explore the full interactive map our our business district

A Destination for Brewers and Beer Lovers

Jack London is a magnet for craft beer fans, with a tight-knit lineup of breweries that double as community hubs. Original Pattern, Oakland United Beerworks, Cellarmaker Brewing, and Tiger’s Taproom serve up pints with personality—from hazy IPAs to sours to Japanese rice lagers—often with music or food trucks in tow. Whether you're pub-hopping on a sunny afternoon or grabbing a nightcap under the low-lit string lights, this is craft beer culture with an Oakland soul.

From Elegant Plates to Backyard Bites

Craving a night of fine dining? Jack London has you covered. Restaurants like The Fat Lady transport you with vintage décor and classic dishes, while NIDO’s BackYard and ODIN offer upscale Mexican fare in a lush, open-air setting that feels like a hidden oasis. Farmhouse Kitchen Thai will transport you abroad to the flavorful world of Thailand, complete with waterfront views. Neighborhood favorite Everett & Jones BBQ brings smoky, soulful plates that keep soul food lovers coming back. It’s a neighborhood where a night out can swing from elegant to eclectic without missing a beat.

A Home for Art, Culture, and Creativity

Jack London pulses with artistic energy—from vibrant murals to local artist workspaces and galleries like The Grand Gallery, Studios 11, and JackKnife Studios. The district’s rich industrial past has become a backdrop for new creative expression. Pop into local art spaces on First Saturdays and seek out art shows on our events calendar; inspiration is everywhere. Walk a few blocks and you might stumble upon a popup market at Hesher's or a workshop led by local makers. This is a district where creativity isn’t just displayed—it’s lived.

From Jazz to Underground: The Soundtrack of the Town

Live music is part of the history here. Yoshi’s remains an iconic jazz venue that draws world-class acts, while a venue like Elbo Room brings high-energy bands and DJs to its intimate stage. For something a little more off the radar, Oakland Secret curates indie performances in a truly one-of-a-kind setting, and Brix 581 hosts a diverse array of nightlife experiences with DJs and dancing. Local spots like Original Pattern also host live bands, and Seawolf Public House brings the laughs with regular stand-up comedy nights. There’s something going on almost every night—just follow the sound.

Stay Weird, Shop Local

Jack London isn’t just for foodies and music lovers—it’s also home to some of Oakland’s most delightfully quirky businesses. Narrative Vintage Collective offers curated vintage treasures and local maker goods that are as fun to browse as they are to wear. Check out the monthly Oakland Vintage Market (organized by Narrative) for one-of-a-kind finds.  At Rootwater Kava, you can unwind with herbal tonics and a chill community vibe that feels worlds away from the daily grind. Looking for something more active? Plank combines bowling, bocce, and beer in a sprawling indoor-outdoor venue that’s great for groups and casual dates alike. Jack London is also home to Oakland's oldest operating bar, Heinold's First and Last Chance Saloon, where the floor and bar top is still slanted from the 1906 earthquake!

Maybe you're on BART for commuting purposes... or perhaps you're visiting the Bay Area and looking for local gems... In either case, do yourself a favor and remember: your next adventure is just a 10-minute walk away. The Jack London District—where Oakland comes to eat, drink, create, and be original.