The much-adored Shakewell Restaurant, an Oakland staple known for its Mediterranean and Spanish cuisine, is shuttering its doors after a decade-long culinary voyage. In an emotional announcement to the "Shakewell family" via a Facebook post, the team revealed that the restaurant's final service date will be August 31. The closing marks an end to a local era of community and shared meals that have been a part of many residents' lives.
According to the Facebook announcement, despite the perseverance and dedication of its owners Tim and Jen, followed by Soroush, and the support of a steadfast staff, "reality of these times" has made it unsustainable to continue. "Despite everything we’ve tried, we just can’t make the numbers work anymore", the statement explained. The vibrant eatery, characterized by its Moorish accents and use of reclaimed wood, has been a place where the community came to enjoy handcrafted cocktails and wood-fired oven delights, as detailed on Shakewell's website.
The closure has struck a chord with regulars and fans, prompting a flood of comments on platforms like Reddit. User @mac-dreidel observed, "A good 10 year run, great spot, but writing has been on the wall for a few years... especially since covid." Others shared their sentiments, with @blaccguido noting the owner's connection to the community and @BoredomFestival expressing hope for a worthy successor to the cherished Lakeshore Avenue location. The conversation, visible on a Reddit thread, reflects the establishment's impact on the local dining scene.
The restaurant's legacy, however, is set to continue in some form. While the details remain unclear, the Facebook update promised patrons that the bar area would remain open as the team contemplates the future. This gives a sliver of hope to those wishing to savor the ambiance a bit longer. As the Shakewell team puts it, "We're so proud of what we’ve built here," a sentiment echoed by the community's response to the news of its closure.
