After nearly six years in Oakland’s popular neighborhood bar Friends and Family will soon close its doors. The team announced the closure on social media on November 2.
Friends and Family to Wrap Up Operations Next Month
Friends and Family will serve its final round of cocktails and bites on December 30, 2025. The queer-owned and operated bar is located at 468 25th St. in Oakland. Owner Blake Cole shared the news of the closure with followers on Instagram
The reason behind Friends and Family’s closure hasn’t been shared. The farewell post reflects on the bar’s journey, noting both its milestones and challenges.
Cole also thanked the community for its support over the years. “Opening and operating friends and family has been an experience of a lifetime. I am so grateful for our place in the community and blessed with the chance to get to know and work with so many beautiful people.”
View this post on Instagram
Dinner Reservations Open Through the End of the Year
As Friends and Family prepares for its final weeks, Cole invited patrons to stop by, share memories, and raise a glass to six years in business. She added in the farewell message that dinner reservations are set to continue at the Oakland location through the end of the year. Bar seating will remain open for walk-ins through December.
For the past six years, Friends and Family has been known for its creative cocktails and shareable dishes in downtown Oakland. Mom’s Rosy Cheeks, Julie’s Supper Club, Sophia Loren, and The Name Dropper are some of its cherished drinks.
The bar has also drawn diners from across the Bay Area for its locally inspired menu. These include Warm Marinated Olives, Brothy Beans, Heirloom Tomato Toast, and Joodooboo Tofu.
Friends and Family’s departure will be felt across Oakland’s vibrant nightlife scene, especially among the city’s queer-owned venues.
