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SHORTCUTS NEIGHBORS 58 C A R M E L M A G A Z I N E • W I N T E R 2 0 1 4 Jack London's Livens Up Food with Music S ome would find it odd that a community with an artistic tradition as rich and varied as that of Carmel-by-the-Sea would have an ongo- ing issue with the presentation of live music at its nightspots. True, restric- tions have eased somewhat and tentative attempts have been made, but to date no one has stepped up to the plate and provided an environment conducive to the creation of a truly vibrant music scene. Paul Owen, owner of Jack London's Bar & Grill, is out to change all that. He's a musician himself—Owen sings and also plays harmonica and gui- tar. The restaurant's decor is even music-themed. "I came to playing music late in life and am passionate about live music," the affable restaurateur says. Owen's path to restaurant ownership is an unusual one. He grew up in Prunedale and, like many sons of Monterey County, gravitated to the pro- duce industry, eventually working his way to the top of the heap as pres- ident of one Monterey County's largest retail, wholesale and food service supply outlets. "I never worked a day in a restaurant," Owen muses. "It was a steep learning curve." But he's a natural, having quickly grasped the concepts of hospitality. His recipe is simple: create a comfortable, friendly atmosphere, add good, healthy food, an experienced staff, a dog-friendly outdoor patio with fire pits and a heated bench and a full bar offering creative libations. Then garnish with talented local musicians playing live music at least two evenings each week. Singer/songwriter Casey Frazier is one of those. "I've been playing at Jack London's for three years," the dynamic per- former says. "It has a really cool vibe." And Frazier puts his finger squarely on what sets an establishment like Jack London's apart: the vibe. "My goal is to make everyone who comes here feel like it's their place," Owen says. "I want it to feel like home." Jack London's Bar & Grill is located on Dolores Street between 5th and 6th Avenues in Su Vecino Court in Carmel. 831/624-2336. —Michael Chatfield Paul Owen, owner of Jack London's Bar & Grill in Carmel, is also a musician who sings, plays harmonica and guitar. Owen spices up his popu- lar bar/restaurant with live music and a welcoming vibe. Dogs are allowed on the outdoor patio. Photo: Kelli Uldall 046-76 Shortcuts_SU05 Carmel Magazine 1/26/14 12:21 PM Page 7