The grand opening of Dave & Buster's in Oakland’s Jack London Square represents a significant step in the area’s ongoing revitalization. The 34,000-square-foot entertainment venue, featuring arcade games, dining, and large screens, is anticipated to increase foot traffic and attract new businesses to the waterfront district.

New Entertainment Hub for Oakland

Dave & Buster's officially joined Oakland’s Jack London Square with a grand opening ceremony held Monday at 55 Harrison Street. The new facility occupies a space that has remained vacant for years, marking a win for the neighborhood.

Venue Features and Community Impact

The new Dave & Buster's boasts over 30 oversized televisions, a 40-foot sports screen, and a full menu of food, drinks, and arcade games. Community members and business leaders are optimistic that the well-known chain will stimulate further growth in the area.

Local Leaders Express Optimism

Savlan Hauser, executive director of the Jack London Improvement District, emphasized the potential benefits of increased foot traffic. “It’ll be great to have the extra traffic, foot traffic here and invite people to know the rest of the District, too,” Hauser stated. “Nothing encourages businesses like businesses doing well in a neighborhood.”

Addressing Competition Concerns

While some initially expressed concerns about competition with nearby Plank, which also offers food and games, Plank management welcomed the new neighbor. Hauser highlighted that increased activity generally benefits all businesses in the district as a regional entertainment destination.

Revitalization Efforts and New Legislation

The opening arrives at a time when residents and visitors have noted a need for increased activity in the area. Davante Collins, a visitor to Jack London Square, observed a lack of foot traffic at nearby coffee shops and small businesses.

Local leaders are also encouraged by a recent state law easing maritime-only and tourist-serving leasing restrictions, which they believe will attract more businesses to fill vacant storefronts.

Grand Opening Celebration

The ribbon-cutting ceremony took place Monday at 10:45 a.m. The first 100 guests in line received free unlimited video game play for the entire day. Resident Antonia Do Valle stated, “It will definitely bring more people down. And that’s what we need in Oakland.”

A Broader Vision for Jack London Square

The arrival of Dave & Buster's is part of a larger effort to revitalize Jack London Square, which has faced challenges in recent years. The district has historically been a hub for maritime activity and tourism, but economic shifts and the pandemic have impacted some areas.

The new venue is expected to draw crowds from Oakland and surrounding cities, potentially boosting local businesses and creating jobs. Its waterfront location aligns with city plans to enhance the area’s appeal for dining, shopping, and leisure.