Joneck’s Wine Lounge Moves to Midtown Sacramento After Racism Spurs Search for Inclusive Community

Joneck’s Wine Lounge and Bottle Shop, a popular wine bar that opened in East Sacramento in April of last year, is relocating to midtown Sacramento this summer. The new address, 2231 J Street, is near Capital Stage theater and offers a more central, vibrant location for the establishment. Co-owner Renee Jones explained that while location played a role in the decision, deeper factors related to personal experience and community culture were at the heart of the move.

Racist Encounters and Emotional Strain Prompt Jones to Seek a Welcoming New Start

Jones, a Black business owner, shared that she has experienced frequent racist behavior from patrons in East Sacramento. These interactions included being treated as a servant and not being recognized as the owner of the establishment. Such treatment was not isolated but occurred so frequently that it influenced her view of the neighborhood’s receptiveness. The emotional toll was severe enough to prompt her to seek counseling and take antidepressants.

Despite initially choosing East Sacramento due to a lack of wine bars in the area, Jones began looking for a new location shortly after opening. The constant stress and emotional exhaustion made her realize that remaining in a non-inclusive environment was unsustainable. She ultimately decided that moving to a more welcoming space was crucial for both her well-being and the future of the business. “I’m not going to lose my business,” she stated with resolve.

Community Support Fuels Resilience and Hope for a More Inclusive Midtown Chapter Ahead

While her overall experience in East Sacramento was challenging, Jones expressed gratitude for the support she received from some community members. She found solace in connecting with others who validated her experiences and offered encouragement. These supportive relationships helped her navigate the difficulties and find the strength to pursue a better setting for her business in midtown.

Jones is enthusiastic about the upcoming move and the opportunities it presents. The new location will operate as a restaurant with expanded offerings, including a more extensive food menu, outdoor seating, and live entertainment such as music, trivia, and poetry. Most importantly, she hopes the new space will foster an inclusive and welcoming environment. “I genuinely am looking forward to celebrating and bringing joy to everyone who has gone out of their way… to come and visit us,” she said.