Alli Li has opened There/There, a new queer bar in Oakland's former Friends and Family location, offering an accessible price point and a vision for community, despite current public records not yet reflecting its legal entity or liquor license details.
Alli Li's new queer bar, There/There, is now open at 468 25th Street in Oakland, occupying the space that was formerly home to the much-loved Friends and Family. The new venture, which began operating in late May or June 2026, aims to continue the legacy of a welcoming community hub with an emphasis on accessibility and affordability, according to Li.
Li, a veteran of notable Bay Area establishments including Standard Fare, Daytrip, and Rintaro, has reimagined the Uptown Oakland space. She launched a GoFundMe in early 2026 to help bring her vision to life, with a focus on creating an environment where patrons can feel comfortable and connected. The bar features a back patio with bleachers, which Li refers to as a "cruising corner," designed for patrons to gather and socialize.
The menu at There/There reflects Li's commitment to an approachable price point: cocktails range from $12 to $17, with most falling between $14 and $16, and small food items are priced from $4 to $8. Offerings include inventive takes on bar snacks, such as $7 nuggets and $8 caviar bumps. As of July 15, 2026, the bar is actively serving patrons, though its specific opening date in late May or June has seen slightly varying reports.
While the bar is a clear presence in Oakland's dining scene, an operating entity under the name "There/There" and a California Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) license for the address could not be found in public records at the time of reporting. Similarly, specific details on its seating capacity are not publicly available. Li's independent launch of There/There underscores the ongoing challenges and entrepreneurial spirit within Oakland's hospitality landscape, particularly for community-focused spaces.

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