Overview
- The Spanish Table announced on August 11 that its Berkeley location on San Pablo Avenue will shut its doors on August 17 after 24 years in business.
- Owner Bastian Schoell cited post-pandemic revenue declines, rising labor and import expenses, and volatile U.S. tariffs as key factors in the closure decision.
- He warned that broader retail availability of Spanish imports and a downturn in alcohol sales have eroded the shop’s niche appeal and profitability.
- Operations will shift to the Inner Richmond San Francisco store and online platform, with Schoell expressing hopes to add a wine bar at the remaining location.
- The Berkeley community has rallied with a goodbye event featuring a flamenco guitarist and plans for Spanish food-and-wine pop-ups in collaboration with Evergreen Cafe.