Urbana Breathes New Life into Historic Luka’s Taproom with a New Cannabis Dispensary and Lounge in Oakland

Honoring a Beloved Oakland Landmark, Urbana Introduces a New Paradigm in Cannabis Retail and Consumption

OAKLAND, CA – Urbana, one of Northern California’s premier cannabis brands, is thrilled to announce the opening of its newest dispensary and consumption lounge in the heart of Oakland. Located in the historic Luka’s Taproom, Urbana’s newest site pays tribute to a beloved community institution while creating a cutting-edge cannabis experience for the next generation.

By stepping into this historic space, Urbana continues Luka’s rich tradition of fostering community, art, and culture while introducing an innovative, modern cannabis experience that is deeply rooted in Oakland’s evolving landscape.

Reviving a Community Hub: The Legacy of Luka’s Taproom

Since opening in 2004, Luka’s Taproom served as more than just a popular bar and restaurant—it was a cultural cornerstone. 

Located in the heart of Uptown Oakland, Luka’s played a pivotal role in revitalizing the neighborhood, becoming a gathering place for residents, artists, and performers alike. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, live music, art exhibits, and commitment to the community, Luka’s was a symbol of unity and Oakland pride.

As one of the first venues in an area once riddled with crime and vacant storefronts, Luka’s helped pave the way for a thriving dining and nightlife scene in Uptown​ Oakland. Sadly, after 18 years, Luka’s closed its doors in January 2022 following a rent dispute with its new landlord​.

Its impact remains undeniable, and for many in the community, its closure left a void. Urbana aims to fill that gap while honoring Luka’s legacy by creating a new destination that brings people together in meaningful ways—just as Luka’s did.

Urbana’s Vision: A Space Where Community Meets Cannabis

Urbana’s founder and CEO, Marty Higgins, understands the significance of taking over such a cherished space. “Luka’s wasn’t just a bar; it was a place where Oakland’s diverse community gathered, celebrated, and shared experiences. At Urbana, we’re committed to continuing that tradition of connection by offering a welcoming environment where cannabis, culture, and community intersect,” Higgins said.

The new Urbana location at 2221 Broadway is far more than a retail space. With its roots firmly planted in Oakland, Urbana’s mission goes beyond selling cannabis—it’s about creating a community-centric experience. The dispensary will feature two on-site consumption lounges where guests can enjoy curated cannabis products, engage in educational events, and connect with fellow patrons in a relaxed, inclusive setting.

Building a Cannabis Culture Centered on Oakland

Urbana’s new space is designed to reflect both the industrial charm of Luka’s and the evolving cannabis culture of today’s Oakland. Exposed brick, local artwork, and warm, welcoming spaces pay homage to the site’s history while bringing a fresh, modern aesthetic. 

The heart of the space is its consumption lounge, where visitors are encouraged to stay, connect, and explore the world of cannabis in a safe and supportive environment.

“We’re excited to continue the work Luka’s started—building community,” said Higgins. “Our new consumption lounges are not just places to enjoy cannabis, but venues where people can gather for live music, workshops, and educational events that highlight the best of Oakland’s local culture.”

As part of Urbana’s deep commitment to the community, the location will regularly host events that bring people together, including cannabis tastings, meet-and-greets with cultivators, and expert-led workshops. These events will foster education, social connection, and engagement with the wider Oakland cannabis community.

Honoring the Past, Envisioning the Future

Luka’s Taproom was a symbol of cultural revival and community resilience in Uptown Oakland, and Urbana seeks to carry that legacy forward with every event and interaction. In addition to elevating cannabis retail and consumption, Urbana is dedicated to supporting local causes. Urbana’s Oakland location will contribute to initiatives that serve veterans, support animal advocacy, and provide aid to local families.

“As we move into this next chapter, our goal is to respect the past while building a future that embodies the spirit of Oakland,” Higgins stated. “Cannabis has always been a part of this city’s culture and history, and we’re proud to play a role in the continued evolution of that story.”

Looking Ahead: A New Era for Cannabis in Uptown Oakland

As Oakland’s cannabis landscape grows, Urbana stands at the forefront of the movement to create spaces where community, culture, and cannabis thrive together. With its new location, Urbana aims to set the gold standard for cannabis retail by blending high-quality products with meaningful community engagement. Urbana’s vision is clear: to create a destination where Oakland’s past, present, and future converge in celebration of cannabis culture.

The grand opening of Urbana’s Oakland dispensary will be a landmark event, marking the beginning of a new era for 2221 Broadway and the city itself. Whether visiting to experience the curated cannabis offerings, participate in educational events, or simply unwind in the lounge, guests will find themselves part of a vibrant community that honors Oakland’s rich legacy while embracing its future.

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About Urbana: New Oakland Dispensary and Lounge

Urbana is one of California’s most progressive cannabis dispensary brands and the operator of two award-winning retail locations in San Francisco, in the popular Inner Richmond and Mission Districts. Urbana proudly announces a third retail location joins their family of Bay-area dispensary lounges in August 2024, now in the heart of Oakland’s eclectic commercial and entertainment district.

Urbana is committed to providing safe, educational, and community-driven cannabis experiences that honor the history and culture of the cities it serves. Their stores have continually changed how customers shop for and enjoy cannabis. With bright and open retail spaces and beautiful on-site consumption lounges, Urbana attracts consumers from all walks of life looking for a safe and modern way to buy premium cannabis products. Voted one most beautiful dispensaries in America, a top-10 dispensary in Northern California, and “one the best dispensaries to visit with your Mom,” Urbana is proud to announce the expansion of their hospitality-rich service and commitment to serving the community.

Visit Urbana online to get directions or delivery, and browse their selections, rewards and events at www.urbananow.com. Learn more about Urbana’s renowned dispensary consumption lounges by downloading their deck here. 

Visit Urbana Oakland
Visit Urbana’s premiere dispensary and lounge at 415 W. Grand Ave, Oakland, to discover the best social cannabis lounge and retail experience in the city. Enjoy premium cannabis products in a relaxed and inviting atmosphere.

Contact Urbana
Marty Higgins
Founder and CEO, Urbana
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.urbananow.com

Media Contact
Highly Capitalized Network
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.highlycapitalized.com

About Urbana
Urbana is a leading cannabis retailer in Northern California, known for its high-quality products and inclusive on-site consumption lounges. With locations in San Francisco and Oakland, Urbana is committed to providing safe, educational, and community-driven cannabis experiences that honor the history and culture of the cities it serves.