The Fat Lady: Inspiration for an evening on the square
Why is this Jack London Square restaurant called The Fat Lady? The name was inspired by a nude painting the original owner acquired just before opening the restaurant. This painting still hangs over the bar. Kinda makes you curious to pop by for a look-see, no?
Other, more tantalizing stories swirl around the offbeat, somewhat offensive title. The restaurant is housed in a beautiful, antique Victorian that used to be a brothel. Legend has it that The Fat Lady is dubbed after the former brothel’s Madame, one whom Jack London himself may have known.
Whatever you believe about its namesake, The Fat Lady beckons investigation. Recognized as one of Oakland’s finest lunch and dinner establishments, the restaurant is steeped with a unique combination of legend and luxury. White napkins and wine glasses are shiny and perfectly folded for the lunch hour, even on the sidewalk tables, which boast Art Noveau formality and elegance.
Inside, the decadent Victorian décor includes Tiffany lamps, stained glass windows, beveled glass doors, classical portraits, and dark, rich fabrics. Much of the objects you see have a history and a story – the back bar has traveled from place to place, the antique signs come from former breweries. Even without knowing where it all comes from, you get the sense that’s there’s always something more here than what meets the eye.
Overall, The Fat Lady is great fun, and the Mediterranean, Italian, Greek, Armenian, and American-inspired food is delicious. Choose between everything from rack of lamb, with port wine, cherry, and apricot sauce, to Mediterranean and seafood pastas, to a 16 oz. New York Steak. Brunch specials, including freshly baked morning pastries, and lunch, including gourmet sandwiches, are also on the menu.
Now celebrating its 40th year in business, The Fat Lady has been compared to everything from a European pub or bistro to a rollicking establishment straight out of the New Orleans’ French Quarter. Whatever hour you visit, the atmosphere is always friendly and inviting, the type of place where you’ll never want for conversation when you’re sitting among the regulars at the bar, who return again and again to The Fat Lady’s family-owned hospitality.
HelloSanFrancisco Tip: Brunch is on Saturdays and Sundays only, from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Posted by Renee Rutledge
