FRESNO, CA — A new high-end cocktail destination is preparing to open its doors in northeast Fresno this week. The Golden Hour Cocktail Lounge is scheduled to open around February 14 at 1974 E. Copper Ave., near the corner of Maple Avenue.
According to The Fresno Bee, the 760-square-foot lounge has seating for just 26 guests. Designed by architect Robby Antoyan, the interior captures a 1920s Hollywood feel.
The lounge features an on-site craft distillery called Maple & Copper Distilling Co. The facility uses a 2,000-liter still — the equipment used to make liquor — to produce small batches of about 160 bottles at a time.
The distillery currently produces the vodka and gin used in the lounge’s cocktails. The owners plan to add white rum and other spirits to the menu in the future. They have partnered with industry experts from the neighboring Mad Duck Craft Brewing Co. to oversee daily operations and distilling. This team includes general manager Dustin Llanes and distilling consultant Alex Costa, who bring expertise in fermentation and bartending.
The drink menu focuses on house-made ingredients, including fresh juices, infused spirits, and hand-stuffed olives. Options range from premium choices like an $18 Bananas Foster Old Fashioned to non-alcoholic and vegan-friendly drinks.
To maintain an intimate setting, The Golden Hour will limit the number of guests allowed inside. The lounge will operate on Thursdays from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., and on Fridays and Saturdays from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Guests can walk in or make a reservation through the lounge’s website, though entry depends on how many seats are open.
For more information, read the original report in The Fresno Bee.
