1658 12th St
Oakland, CA 94607

JOnce described as the Apollo of Northern California, and the coliseum of Oakland Blues, the Continental Club has hosted such Motown royalty as BB King, Aretha Franklin, the Supremes, Stevie Wonder, Sammy Davis, the Temptations, Marvin Gaye and many others. The original owner Curtis Christy and his late brother Ross originally opened the future club as a soul-food gill in 1947 which expanded when they were able to acquire and demolish a neighboring property. As the stage grew larger, the restaurant was transformed into a small club called Rumboogie which featured local Blues acts in the 50's. Finally, in the 60's, Christy opened the Continental Club and provided a venue for everything from blow-out shows, to annual drag queen balls, community events and regional motorcycle club gatherings. Today this legendary landmark is for lease. Recently remodeled this large free-standing building boast a full kitchen, 4 bars areas, a large performance stage, dance floor and new rooftop patio. Affordable West Oakland is becoming a cool industrial district close to everything, and served by local entrepreneurs who are working hard to revive the area with new eateries, coop grocery stores, community gardens and warehouse conversion developments. The Continental Club now looks for a new operator with a vision who can carry on its traditions as a soulful and deeply rooted anchor in the neighborhood.  All licenses and permits are in place.