Karribean City Shut Down, Transfers Ownership

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Karibbean City, the East Bay club which bills itself as "the only reggae Night Spot and Stage venue in Oakland, CA," has been shut down by ABC, a state agency which regulates nightlife venues. Formerly home to such parties as Reggae Gold, 1 Blood Affair, Labelle, Ladies First and Third Fridayz, the club, located at the same spot as the historic Caribee, catered to a largely West Indian and African American clientele. It also generated crowds which often spilled over into the streets on weekends, and its loud mix of hip-hop, dancehall, and soca could be heard from at least a block away.

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Reggae star I-Wayne performs at Karibbean City in 2008

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As of August 6, Karribean City is closed indefinitely. A sign posted at the venue details a notice of suspension by the ABC "for violation of the Alcoholic Beverage Control Act," which likely means that the club was caught serving underage patrons alcohol. Also posted is a sign announcing a public notice of transfer of ownership posted August 11. So it's looking like Karibbean City will be back, although exactly when is not immediately known. Let's hope the new owner runs a tighter ship.

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