FOOD & Drink
“I used to say if I could have any job in the world, I would help other people’s passion grow,” reveals events professional Jenn Lui. “Baba’s House gives me the opportunity to do just that.”
The immersive community event space and Asian snack shop – which Jenn co-founded with her partner, musician and teacher Alan Chen – focuses on preserving modern Asian American culture in Oakland, California.
‘Baba’ means father, and the venue is named after Jenn’s late father William Lui, who encouraged his kids to nourish community and creativity. It has hosted over 500 events since opening in 2021, which have included Lunar New Year celebrations, Mahjong game nights, comedy gigs, and live Living Room Sessions with local artists.
Snacks are in the venue’s DNA too, offering unique and nostalgic treats from Asia, like Mama Teav’s Hot Garlic, and Munchrooms mushroom jerky.
“We’ve built a safer space for our POC creatives to convene, reintroducing and preserving our cultural heritage within our space and events,” says Jenn, who had a previous career as a bow tie maker before pivoting to events.
“There’s a consensus this is their third place and somewhere they can be themselves and feel seen,” Jenn adds.
Along with Nectar Social Club, they co-founded the social collective The Central Artery. Once a month, they close down their block to throw a dance party and host a vendor fair.
Baba’s House – which also boasts a library, podcasting booth, and a community altar where people can pay respects to loved ones – has an even brighter future ahead, after taking over the main floor of their building earlier this year.
“We were a little secret venue, tucked away on the second floor of a restaurant. Now, we’re reimagining what our multi-level space could be and uncovering its potential,” Jenn says. “For us, this is truly just the beginning.”
