American Oak Reopens After December Arson

American Oak has finally reopened after a fire shut down the Santa Clara restaurant in December last year.

Alameda Fire Department said the fire, which was reported as arson by Alameda Police, caused $450,000 in damages.

The restaurant, located at 2319 Santa Clara Avenue, reopened on May 16 and introduced its remodeled interior along with an updated menu. They have a new cocktail menu and were luckily able to procure most of the whiskey selections they had before, according to co-owner Melanie Hartman.

"We don't have any plans for any type of major opening party as of yet, but we may decide to do something in conjunction with our five year anniversary in the space (as BarCeluna before) in early July," Hartman said.

She said because of the smoke damage, every square inch of the interior had to be repainted and most of the furnishings were replaced.

"Although the fire was tragic, it gave us the chance to make some really interesting changes to the interior. We were also able to utilize a ton of local talent within the remodel," she said.

The paint, light fixtures, and tabletops were all designed and made by local businesses, she said.

"It was important to try and give back to the community, as it was so generous with us after the fire."

Shortly after the fire, neighboring businesses like Angela's Bistro and Swell Bar offered to sponsor fundraising events to raise money for American Oak's staff.

"It really feels great to be back open, and the response from all of our customers has been so overwhelming," Hartman said. "With everyone, including the staff, being so excited about us being open again, it has really created a very special and contagious energy within the space."

For more information on American Oak, visit their website at http://americanoakalameda.com/