In yet another blow to Oakland's culinary scene, the popular restaurant Calavera served its final meal on Saturday before permanently closing its doors. The restaurant owners, citing an alarming increase in crime within the city, expressed their sadness and frustration as they bid farewell to a decade-long establishment.

Sarah Ryan, one of the co-owners of Calavera, conveyed a mix of emotions while reflecting on the closure. "It's sadness, it's anger, it's very bittersweet," she expressed, emphasizing the restaurant's significance as a local staple for nearly ten years.

Ryan's distress was not only for the loss of the establishment itself but also for the dedicated staff who poured their hearts into their work. "They work hard, and they love what they do. Blood, sweat, and tears," she lamented.

The co-owner voiced her anger towards the city's approach to addressing crime in Oakland. "We feel like the city is not helping us in any way to reduce crime. I understand that they're trying their best, but it's not enough," Ryan explained.

Calavera was originally opened by the owners of another Oakland restaurant, Chop Bar, which also closed its doors in July. Ryan, a long-time employee of Chop Bar, became a co-owner of Calavera a year ago.

Despite their frustrations, Ryan expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support Calavera received from the community in its final days. "The outpouring of love has been amazing the last four days," she stated.

Earlier this year, Calavera joined other Oakland establishments in a one-day strike to protest against the city's response to crime. The venue served as a meeting place for organizers, including Carl Chan, a leader in Oakland Chinatown, who spearheaded the effort. At the time, Chan called for increased law enforcement and the involvement of the governor and Alameda County.

In the months leading up to the closure, Calavera experienced a significant decline in foot traffic, with a reduction of approximately 35% from 2022 to 2023. Ryan attributed this decline to the growing number of incidents that occurred in broad daylight along Broadway, where the restaurant is situated. The rise in criminal activity left customers fearful and hesitant to venture out in Oakland.

Ultimately, dwindling reservations became an insurmountable challenge for Calavera, leading to its unfortunate demise. As Calavera bid farewell to its patrons, Ryan preferred to view it as a temporary departure rather than a definitive end. "We're not calling it our last supper, we're calling it 'we'll see you soon'" she concluded.

The closure of Calavera serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing struggle faced by businesses in Oakland due to the escalating crime rate. Without effective solutions, the city risks further losses within its cherished culinary landscape.