Flora, a leader in downtown Oakland's restaurant scene, closes after 13 years

After 13 years, Flora in Uptown Oakland is closing its doors. After 13 years, Flora in Uptown Oakland is closing its doors. Photo: Tamera F. / Yelp Photo: Tamera F. / Yelp Image 1 of / 45 Caption Close Flora, a leader in downtown Oakland's restaurant scene, closes after 13 years 1 / 45 Back to Gallery

A trend-setting Uptown Oakland restaurant known for its spot-on cocktails and beautiful food is closing its doors Nov. 8.

Flora began welcoming diners 13 years ago in the Floral Depot building, an East Bay landmark for Art Deco architecture built in 1931. The swanky space has a Manhattan vibe, and the restaurant led the way in reinvigorating the sleepy Uptown neighborhood.

"There was really nothing that existed at the time," says owner Tom Schnetz. "The Fox Theater wasn't open yet. Every night it was like we were the glowing light you could see on the corner and you could see nothing else that was open."

Schnetz adds: "It took off quickly. We got really nice press. Right away people really liked coming. The Fox eventually opened. I remember many nights after we’d close, I’d love just sitting at the bar and watching the guests, my staff, the bartenders make drinks. Everything about it, it was a very visual experience. I just loved it. It’s the most perfect Oakland place."

Schnetz said business is still strong, but it's time to close and move on. He sold the restaurant to former Flora bar manager Christ Aivaliotis, who is the co-owner of the downtown Oakland tiki bar Kon-Tiki.

"As sad as it is and it breaks my heart to lose it, it’s the perfect opportunity," Schnetz said. "He’s definitely going to change it up. He'll open up six weeks to two months after we close."

Schnetz still owns Xolo taqueria in Oakland and La Venadita taqueria in Sacramento,which he owns with his brother.

What else might be next?

"I think if something came up that seemed right, I’d be more than happy to jump right in," Schnetz said.

Amy Graff is a digital editor for SFGATE. Email her at agraff@sfgate.com.