There’s nothing like kicking it in the Town, and Plank just gave Dub Nation another reason to get outside and celebrate their favorite Bay Area sports teams. Right in the heart of historic Jack London Square, The Hub is the latest addition to Plank’s 50,000-square-foot playground of bowling lanes, arcade games, bocce courts, and Oakland sunshine. The new watch bar and lounge is anchored by a 30-foot video wall that feels built for Curry heat-checks and playoff buzzer-beaters, surrounded by inviting seating and easy access to the action. It’s the kind of space where a post-work happy hour can slide effortlessly into a jersey-filled watch party, all while keeping that laid-back, Oakland-on-a-summer-evening energy.
But The Hub isn’t just screens and seats folks, it’s a vibe designed with Oaklanders in mind. General Manager Jorge Garcia calls it “a space where people can meet to watch a game, enjoy a drink and a meal, or just hang with friends,” and that’s exactly what it delivers. Between the waterfront beer garden, a refreshed menu with everything from wood-fired pizzas to a towering six-patty Big Smash Burger, and a weekend calendar stacked with DJs, watch parties, and even a brunch for you and your dog, The Hub doubles as a sports fan’s haven and a community anchor. Whether you’re cheering in blue and gold or just soaking in the Town’s eclectic energy, this is Oakland at its most alive.
I checked it out this week and honestly the night felt like a reunion tour for my own Oakland story. I grew up in East Oakland and can definitely remember when my Dad would take the family over to this space back when it was Barnes and Nobles. My formative reading memories were forged in that building, so it’s pretty cool to see it still providing value to Oakland all these years later.
The night kicked off with Mayor Barbara Lee delivering a powerful speech about enriching the city and anchoring community in spaces like Plank. From there, it felt like a reunion tour for my own Oakland story. I ran into a high school buddy I hadn’t seen in years, who pulled me into his crew of coworkers. A few Henny shots later, we were lacing up bowling shoes, and by my third roll, I’d nailed a strike — I was back. On my way out of the restroom, I even ran into my cousin, someone I probably hadn’t crossed paths with since the Obama administration. Outside, a live band was absolutely killing it, filling the waterfront air with funky grooves and soulful harmonies. That’s the Oakland I love: friends, family, and even business connections all colliding in one night.
Check out what they have on tap this weekend:
* Friday’s “Play, Point, Party!” kicked off with DJ Slyway spinning, happy hour specials flowing, and a bowling contest where rolling 150+ netted you a $15 gift card.
* Saturday brings “Game Day All The Way!” for the Raiders-Niners tilt, the perfect dry run for when Warriors season tips off. Rock your team colors or jersey and snag game-day perks while testing out those 30-foot screens. Whether you’re riding with the blue and gold or supporting any Bay Area squad, this is where sports fandom meets waterfront vibes.
* Sunday’s “Barks & Beats” rounds out the weekend with live music, brunch, and the only outdoor beer garden in Jack London Square that welcomes your four-legged family. It’s the kind of laid-back afternoon that reminds you why Oakland does community different.
The math is simple: Plank just gave Bay Area sports fans a home base that actually feels like home. Whether you’re breaking down Warriors rotations, debating NFL draft picks, or just looking for a place where strangers become friends over shared screens and good food, The Hub is built for moments that matter. In a town that’s seen too many gathering spots disappear, this one’s designed to stay and remind us why we love kicking it in Oakland.
Slide through to check out Plank this weekend. The Town is calling, and The Hub is answering.
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