For the first time in its 89-year history, the State Theatre of Modesto has its very own cocktail lounge for patrons to enjoy – the Intermission. 

While many cocktail-forward businesses in the area are preoccupied with unique creations and modern spins on classic recipes, Intermission harkens back to the Golden Age of cinema in both its art deco aesthetic and menu. Instead of finding fusion drinks, visitors are welcomed with authentic 1930’s cocktails, meticulously curated to offer a refreshing blast to the past.

“When you come here and order one of our cocktails, you’ll be able to go somewhere else. We’ve done the research; we’ve gone down the rabbit hole,” Executive Director Gabriela Guerrini said. “We don’t carry flavored vodkas or flavored whiskeys. You won’t be able to come in here and get a kamikaze shot.”

“We did not want to turn this into a club scene,” Guerrini said. “This is a place for people to really just relax and feel comfortable. We want to bring in parents and their children and the 19- and 20-year-olds that don’t have a space. They’ll be able to come here and drink coffees or mocktails.”

In addition to focusing on authentic recipes, Intermission also insists on including locally sourced ingredients for both its drinks and food. These products include local favorite Alchemy Bread, mushrooms from the Modesto Certified Farmers Market, Corto Olive Oil from Stockton and a variety of local wines, to name a few.

“We’re using as many local products as possible,” Guerrini said.

The Intermission is also complimented by another brand-new addition to The State Theatre known as The Jewel. This state-of-the-art micro cinema directly connects to the cocktail lounge and will be utilized for both stand-alone film screenings and integrated community events.

“We really pride ourselves in trying to make this a space for all community and local organizations,” Guerrini said. “We’re resurrecting our Film School, which will be held here starting in the spring and we have the local Modesto Poetry group hosting their meetings every other month.”

For those of you looking to visit Intermission for the sole purpose of imbibing some giggle juice, however, take a look at our suggested cocktails before making your visit. 

Signature Drink: 
Cosmopolitan 1934 - Made with Roku Gin, Orange Liqueur, Raspberry, Lemon

Crowd Favorite: 
Old Fashioned - Bulleit Rye, Orange Bitters, Demarara Syrup

Classy Choice: 
Dirty West Martini - Grey Goose, Dry Vermouth, Shafters Bleu Cheese Olive

Off the Beaten Path: 
Ridge Hill Maple Leaf - Maker’s Mark, Maple Syrup, Lemon, Cinnamon

Location: 1301 J Street, Modesto, California
Hours: Thurs. Fri. & Sat. 4 to 11 p.m. & Sun. 12 to 5 p.m.