Legendary hip-hop icon E-40 recently faced a disheartening setback when his Oakland-based restaurant, The Lumpia Company, was targeted by burglars. The incident, which occurred in the early hours of Sunday morning, resulted in the loss of essential equipment and supplies, disrupting the venue’s role as a vital community hub.
The break-in took place at the restaurant’s Brooklyn Basin location near Jack London Square. Security footage captured the suspects entering the premises before 3 a.m., making off with a significant haul of food, merchandise, and, most notably, the audiovisual gear specifically prepared for upcoming FIFA World Cup watch parties and local community programming.
Co-owner and chef Alex Retodo expressed the emotional toll of the crime, noting that the impact extends far beyond the financial loss. “This hurts because it’s not just equipment,” Retodo shared on social media. “It’s the experiences we’ve worked hard to create for our community.” The space had become a sanctuary for families and neighbors to gather for movie nights, comedy shows, and karaoke, all of which have been temporarily halted due to the theft.
Despite the violation, the team behind The Lumpia Company remains committed to their mission. “We won’t lie, this one hurts,” Retodo stated. “But we’re still here. We’re still serving lumpia, and we’re not going anywhere.” This sentiment reflects the resilience of the Bay Area business community, which has frequently faced similar challenges.
E-40, whose three-decade career in hip-hop has been defined by his dedication to building a lasting legacy, has long championed the importance of community investment. While the investigation into the burglary is ongoing, with local authorities reviewing video footage from KRON4, the restaurant continues to operate, standing firm against those who sought to undermine the space he helped build.
