plank Unveils The Hub: Oakland’s New Watch Bar and Entertainment Zone at Jack London Square
Celebrating over 10 years of community, fun and flavor, plank redefines entertainment in Oakland for another decade
[AUGUST 11, 2025] — Oakland, CA — plank, Oakland’s premier destination for dining, drinks, and entertainment, is unveiling its brand-new watch bar and lounge, The Hub, on August 14, 2025. Since its opening in 2014, plank has redefined social entertainment, seamlessly blending bowling, an interactive arcade, bocce, and a waterfront beer garden all across one expansive location in the heart of historic Jack London Square. Now with The Hub, plank introduces a dynamic new space perfect for catching the big game, enjoying happy hour with friends, or simply listening to music and relaxing in style.
Located in the heart of plank’s 50,000-square-foot space, The Hub marks the next chapter in plank’s commitment to community and connection. With a state-of-the-art 30-foot video wall, inviting seating, and easy access to arcade games and bowling lanes, The Hub is designed to be a central gathering place with a welcoming, laid-back vibe while capturing Oakland’s unique energy and vibrancy.
“We’re so excited to bring The Hub to the Oakland community,” said Jorge Garcia, long-time General Manager at plank. “The Hub is a space where people can meet to watch a game, enjoy a drink and a meal, or just hang with friends. I’ve worked at plank for over 10 years; we’ve designed this place with Oaklanders in mind, embodying the city’s bold and eclectic energy.”
CLASSIC COMFORTS WITH A TWIST
As part of the celebration, plank is also launching a refreshed food and beverage menu that brings a California twist to classic comfort dishes. Highlights include wood-fired pizzas, hickory-smoked BBQ, and mouthwatering shareables like nachos and wings. For guests seeking a larger-than-life culinary experience, the menu also includes monstrous offerings like the towering Big Smash Burger with six smashed patties, bacon, cheeses, crispy onions, and rooster sauce and the Smoke Shack Rib Mountain, stacked high with baby back ribs, pulled pork, smoked sausage, and mac and cheese. The new “Bow Wow Chow” dog menu even ensures four-legged guests are part of the fun.
A COMMUNITY ANCHOR
From its beginnings, plank has been committed to the Oakland community, continuing to give back to local organizations like Eat, Play Learn, Meals on One Wheel, and Arts for Oakland Kids. With its expansive entertainment and dining options, plank remains dedicated to being a community anchor, evolving with the neighborhood and listening to their valued customers.
CELEBRATE PLANK’S NEXT CHAPTER
To kick off the unveiling of The Hub and commemorate plank’s milestone 10th anniversary, they will be hosting a weekend-long celebration for the community:
- Friday, August 15: Play, Point, Party! Late Night at plank
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- Kick off the weekend with all-night happy hour specials and a live DJ set by DJ Slyway (7-10 pm) in The Hub. Feeling competitive? Bowl a 150 or higher during plank’s late-night contest and take home a $15 gift card. The contest runs from 9pm until close, with games at just $5 per player.
- Saturday, August 16: Game Day All The Way!
- For fans of all colors and stripes, plank is throwing an all-day, over-the-top watch party. Enjoy plank’s selections of bites and brews while watching your favorite team rack up points. Whoever you’re repping, come decked out in your team colors or jersey to receive a special game-day perk.
- Sunday, August 17: Barks & Beats
- Brunch is better with man’s best friend! Bring your pup to plank’s sunny patio—and the only outdoor beer garden in Jack London Square—for a laid-back afternoon featuring live music from local artists and delicious brunch fare for you and your furry friend.
ABOUT plank
Located in the heart of Jack London Square, plank is the premier destination where food, fun, and community come together. From striking down pins on (18) state-of-the-art bowling lanes to soaking up the sun in the beer garden, plank offers a vibrant blend of dining and entertainment experiences for guests of all ages. Whether you’re catching the game, challenging friends in the arcade, or relaxing with craft beer and shareable bites, every visit to plank invites you to escape the ordinary and rediscover play. plank’s flexible event spaces also serve as the perfect backdrop for birthdays, corporate events, or spontaneous hangouts. With locally inspired brews and bites, immersive games, and waterfront views, plank is more than just a venue — it’s a social playground that redefines entertainment.