Sci-fi aficionados and pop culture enthusiasts are in for a treat with the anticipated reopening of 7 Stars Bar and Grill, now setting up shop at 400 E. Campbell Ave., the former haunt of Lvl Up in downtown Campbell. Owners Paul and Marya Cunha aim to maintain the same vibrant science fiction theme that drew fans to their former San Jose location. According to The Mercury News, the venue is set to open its doors again later this summer, offering a sanctuary for fans of various franchises to revel in trivia nights, themed karaoke, and watch parties for TV series such as "Game of Thrones" and "The Mandalorian."
The Cunhas, self-described as a balance between reaching for the stars and staying grounded, have designed 7 Stars to be an inclusive hub "for all fandoms," Marya Cunha explained. In addition to the evening entertainment, they plan a family-friendly space during the day with an age restriction kicking in at 8 p.m. for those 21 and older. Although the new location is dropping the barcade aspect, reminiscent of Lvl Up, the Cunhas are sticking to their strengths, Downtown Campbell reports, focusing instead on creating custom menus and drinks that resonate with their theme nights.
Before its closure in 2021 due to lease issues and the pandemic upheaval, 7 Stars Bar and Grill enjoyed a decade-long tenure in San Jose. Reestablishing the business has been far from smooth, with a failed escrow and lost investments in permits and legal fees. However, this challenge hasn't dampened their spirits. Paul Cunha recounted the ordeal, as per The Mercury News, "We looked at many other places while waiting," and deemed the new Campbell location as the "one place that doesn’t need anything; it’s ready for us to move right in."
Aside from the allure of trivia nights and cosplays, 7 Stars stands committed to fostering a welcoming environment. "We pride ourselves on how we train our staff," Marya Cunha stated, emphasizing the establishment's stand as a "safe zone for all people," with no exceptions. Admirably, their Kickstarter campaign to fund the reopening exceeded its $15,000 goal, rallying 171 backers to pledge roughly $40,000 to bring the sci-fi haven back to life. This community support reflects the Cunhas' deep roots in the sci-fi culture, which includes a "Star Wars"-themed wedding and nostalgia fueled by the original "Return of the Jedi," on which a family friend of Marya's worked, as cited by The Mercury News.
