Annette Chew Media
“Harnessing the power of a unified community, we will build a strong network to provide support and resources for our businesses, advocate for meaningful changes at the city and county levels, and showcase Oakland’s diverse hospitality offerings to both local and national audiences.” — Luigi Di Ruocco
‘The Town is not going to fall:’ Oakland Restaurant Collective takes aim at negative narratives
Members of the Oakland Restaurant Collective, including Mr. Espresso’s Luigi Di Ruocco, believe in a brighter future for Oakland. At a rollout event on Monday, Jan. 27, 2025, a newly formed nonprofit announced plans for bringing that future to fruition.
Spearheaded by restaurateurs including Nelson German (AlaMar, Sobre Mesa), Paul Iglesias (Parche, Jaji) and Luigi DiRuocco (Mr. Espresso), Oakland Restaurant Collective aims to counter the stigma surrounding Oakland and its culinary scene by amplifying positive stories highlighting the city’s bars, cafés and restaurants. Roughly 140 attendees — including media members, bar owners, local politicians and corporate sponsors — gathered on the Kissel Hotel’s rooftop to hear the collective’s founding members relay their vision.
“Our mission statement is to support, protect and promote the Oakland hospitality industry,” DiRuocco told guests during the hour-long presentation. “Harnessing the power of a unified community, we will build a strong network to provide support and resources for our businesses, advocate for meaningful changes at the city and county levels, and showcase Oakland’s diverse hospitality offerings to both local and national audiences.”
Read more about the launch of Savor Oakland here.