In this episode, we sit down with Jason Lujick, owner of the Legionnaire Saloon, Oakland Whiskey Library and Beeryland in Oakland, to talk about his unexpected journey from the Marine Corps to bar ownership—and how he went from managing the industry to helping reshape it.
From the Marines to the Bar—Jason Lujick’s Unexpected Path to Oakland Hospitality
On this episode of The Walk-In Club Podcast, we sit down with Jason Lujick, a former Marine turned bar owner, whose path to running three of Oakland’s well-known spots—the Legionnaire Saloon, Oakland Whiskey Library and Beeryland—was anything but conventional. From babysitting reservists in the military to working rowdy college bars in Georgia, Jason’s story is one of hustle, adaptation, and resilience in an ever-changing industry.
We explore:
🥃 How a former Marine made their debut in the hospitality industry
🍻 His journey from bar security to general manager—and eventually, bar owner
💰 The financial struggles of running a bar and the creative ways he kept them afloat
🔄 How he adapted and pivoted his businesses to survive the pandemic’s impact
Jason’s journey is a testament to the grind, the unpredictability of the bar world, and the importance of building a community within it. Whether you’re in the industry, a whiskey lover, or just appreciate a good comeback story, this one’s for you.
🔗 Follow @legionnairekaraokesaloon, @oaklandwhiskeylibrary on Instagram for updates on events, whiskey selections, and more.