We came here twice on our long weekend trip to Nevada city. Golden era had (in my opinion), the best selection and execution of craft cocktails in the walkable NC area. As others mentioned, service is kind of slow, but both nights we were there had live music and it was pretty busy, so slower service is understandable. The live music both nights was very good, each night being a different genre of music. After a certain time, they were charging a $10 "donation" (cover) to get in. Overall, we had a good time here and would stop in again when in town. read more

Golden Era - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Nevada City, California

Just down the street from The National hotel, we stopped in for a cocktail before dinner. Like the town, the bar which appears to have been open in some capacity or another since the early 1900s, has the old back bar and a cool tin ceiling. There's some odd art on the wall that doesn't at all match the vibe but don't let that deter you. Bartenders were super friendly. The cocktail list was more extensive and sophisticated than I expected. And while there wasn't live music at the time, there's clearly a stage for music, which I'm sure is fun. Definitely worth a visit when you need a refreshing beverage. read more

Golden Era - Historic bar - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Nevada City, California

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Very cute atmosphere with decent cocktails but a disinterested bartender. Too much competition to give it a second look. read more

Golden Era - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Nevada City, California

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We finished our amazing day with drinks at the Golden era, beautiful building with amazing architecture, built in the 1860's and reflected the craftsmanship that went into this beautiful building read more

Absolutely.Beautiful.Interior. We sat in front of the grand fire place and sipped yummy cocktails...does anything sound better?! Without having ever been there before it's hard to judge if it was crowded for a Sunday. There was only one bartender so drinks took a little long as he was hustling to take care of everyone BUT he was so friendly and cocktails were expertly crafted nonetheless. The vibe is cozy, relaxed and elegant. Recommend! Make sure to look up at the dazzling beautiful ceiling! read more

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I attended this venue for a live performance and was very disappointed with the experience. The owner was extremely unprofessional and rude throughout the event. The music was unexpectedly stopped during the performance, creating confusion for both the performers and guests. As a customer, I expect business owners to treat patrons and entertainers with respect and professionalism. Unfortunately, that was not my experience. The atmosphere felt unwelcoming, and the way the situation was handled left a negative impression. I hope management takes customer feedback seriously and works toward creating a more respectful and professional environment for future guests and performers. I I would never come back to this establishment Ever again, spending money there was not worth it for the rude atmosphere attitude from the owner. read more

We came here for a pre-dinner cocktail, and quite enjoyed ourselves. The bar is really cool, very upscale old west. All of our drinks were expertly made and delicious. I wanted a second drink (the mango one), but my friends didn't, and I never drink alone. Still dreaming about another cocktail at Golden Era. Next visit to Nevada City, I'm there!! read more

Golden Era - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Nevada City, California

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It was a Highly recommended place to visit. I ordered the dealers choice, and it didn't disappoint! Will be coming back again next time ! read more

Golden Era - Dealers Choice ( tequila based ) - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Nevada City, California

Came in right right before dinner to enjoy a nice cocktail to get out of the hot sun. Nice cool bar with a relaxed vibe. It was a bit dark inside but nice because the the weather outside. The host gave us our menus and he was very patient and polite and answered all our questions. They do have live music there around 7p but it may depend on the day. We were too early for the live music so I was a little sad about that. Was also a bit disappointed that they had no appetizers or snacks to go with the drinks. That's ok though I came there for drinks anyway. I ordered a special drink called the Orange Dreamsicle. It was rum forward. I I did taste more rum than orange. I would ask for a bit more orange juice if I were to get it again. It became more and more enjoyable as I drank on though. The Grass Valley Girl was also a drink I would recommend. It wasn't mine but got to sample. It was very refreshing with the lemon and cucumber flavors. All of us enjoyed our drinks and would go back given the opportunity. The bartender was also very friendly as well and did make tasty cocktails. read more

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We stopped her when visiting from out of town, and the drinks were phenomenal. We arrived early, and had a great and very personalized experience with one of the bartenders creating a drink for me, choosing for my husband, and letting us try something new that had just arrived from their supplier. We would happily return during our next visit, even knowing that during busier times we would be showing up for great cocktails and less personal attention. We will be telling our friends to stop here on a getaway soon! read more

This place was so much fun..... Watch out for the shots! It's a ready fun place. Eric and his mom (owners) are super awesome. read more

Golden Era - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Nevada City, California

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Excellent ambience. The bartenders know the drinks extremely well. I had the Long Island and also a beer. Wonderful cocktails which are a notch above other places. Clean, very nice bathroom. Had loud, live music on my visit which was fun and enjoyable. The vibe is super friendly....I chatted up several other patrons during my visit. Would go again anytime. read more

Golden Era - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Nevada City, California

The drinks were really good and the Halloween decor made it a fun place to hang out. We found some seating and a server came over and took our drink orders. It was nice to have that service and not try to squeeze in at the bar and wait for someone to notice you to get a drink. The gal who helped us was friendly and constantly smiling and at some point live music began. Overall cool spot to hit up after dinner. read more

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Best cocktail bar in the gold country! Staff is fun, friendly, and very knowledgeable about making many different kinds of cocktails! Rotating menu of new and innovative drinks! It's a must stop when in Nevada City. read more

Cindy and her family have poured their heart and souls into this establishment. Every detail is impeccable, so elegant and beautiful. A very relaxed atmosphere, considering how glamorous it is. Everyone is so warm and welcoming, if you're not a local, you will want to be one. And the drinks aren't just for show! They're fantastic! The Bramble is so dangerous, just perfection. I could easily turn into a very regular, even daily customer here. Being a working mom, for obvious reasons I am not, but I could. Let the record show. Thank you to the Giardinas for spreading love throughout our community through GE. Whether it be welcoming patrons with open arms and warm hearts or giving back to the community, you always go above and beyond. We are so grateful for all you do. Cheers! Five stars is an understatement! read more

A beautiful refurbished interior frozen in time, but not decrepit or moldy. Modern touches of fancy candles and paintings avoids making it look like a museum, but retains aspects that makes this joint classy and wonderful. Come here for the mindfully created crafted drinks. Mezcal is de rigueur. I challenge these brillant mixologists and get something even better. I enjoyed a bunch of vodka, gin and whiskey based concoctions. Very smooth and deceptively easy to drink. This night had DJ Fossill who played funk, it was fun with people dancing by the bar. Other types of entertainment on other nights, too. read more

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The Golden Era is a great place to socialize on the patio, listen to music, and grab a great drink. When I came here last spring they had this amazing chef working his magic and an awesome menu, I came a few months later and the menu was gone, drinks only...not sure what happened but they really need that chef back! Regardless, there's always some live music, locals, great socializing, and great drinks. It's a great bar and I love it! read more

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We came in for drinks and it was a lively crowd. Not too overwhelming but it was nice walking into a popping place at 730pm on a Friday. Nice country type band was playing while we enjoyed our drinks. The bathrooms were nice although, it could be a place that seems like it has some ghost stories. read more

I had one of their gin cocktails and it was probably the best drink I ever had in my life. They have three different types of ice they use for their cocktails very impressive. The service was amazing we accidentally spilled one of our drinks and they replaced it for free. The seats were comfortable and there were three different types of seating which I liked as well bar stools lounging seats and tables. I would go there again anytime read more

Golden Era - Gin cocktail with small ice, my drink was Frosty on the outside of the glass till the very bottom. - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Nevada City, California

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This is a Great spot to grab a drink and listen to good music. Love the ambiance. There are comfortable seats and a variety of drinks

Cool vibe..great staff and outstanding signature cocktails! Stopped in on the way to dinner. This will become a tradition!!

We went for a cocktail with friends who live in Nevada City, such a great spot!! Drinks were all crafted with care. The ambience is super cool and the service is excellent. I would be a regular if I lived here. Next time will plan to stay for the live music. Highly recommend!! read more

Best mojitos in town! I highly recommend this place for great service and really cool vibes. It's also super clean and well-maintained.

Absolutely charming cocktail bar with turn-off-the century decor. Large drink menu and craft cocktails. Enjoyed the venue for a musical performance on Saturday night. Family-owned with great service and friendly atmosphere that is well-loved by locals and visitors alike. Be aware that there is no food or bar snacks! Worth a visit when in Nevada City. read more

Beautiful Place....if in Nevada City, you must stop here for a cocktail. The place is beautifully decorated and lovely during the holidays.

Amazing drinks, I usually get "mock tails" the best ginger beer I've ever had, they have this sweet cream mojito mock tail that is soooo delish... cute 40s lounge vibe, lots of seating, nice atmosphere, highly recommend read more

Very happy with my random visit to this cocktail lounge. Happened to drive by, peeked in and saw a relaxed cocktail lounge that I had to stop into. The bartenders and patrons were very welcoming, so I stayed to enjoy a few drinks. I requested a specific drink, and the bartenders delivered wonderfully despite it being "off menu". I had a great time while there, and I plan to return soon! read more

Golden Era - a restaurant bar with a menu on the bar - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Nevada City, California

We had the best time here. I wish I remembered the bartenders name. He was awesome. Definitely viewed his job like doing art. Which was fun to watch and more fun to taste. Everyone seemed like locals. Super friendly. Made me want to move there.you can't go wrong coming here. Everything they make was spectacular. Fun interesting ingredients for craft cocktails. And a beautiful building. read more

Romance distilled. Time stands still in this beautiful space. This is where you come to escape from the world. Lovely drinks served professionally in comfort and with style. This is like going to a spa. read more

Golden Era - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Nevada City, California

Made our first visit yesterday. It was awesome. We spoke to the owner a few times and he was great. We got the background on their business and specialty cocktails with mescal. The food (we had the skewers and beet salad) was absolutely delicious and there was live music too. We'd go back in a second. Highly recommended. read more

This hippie/hillbilly place is remodeled and looks nice... but don't be fooled. These idiots have no idea what they are doing. Extremely understaffed and rude. We sat at the bar for 20 mins waiting to order a drink and we were never even acknowledged until the bar back asked us what we want. He put the drinks in the computer like we were at a dining table and then we wait nearly another 40 mins to get our drinks.... Still not a single smile or kind word from staff. By time we finished our one drink it was 11pm and they were closing... on a Friday. My friend went to the restroom and I waited by the door. At that point some lil scruffy ginger with obvious short man complex came at me and told me I need to leave because they were about to close. Not a single other person had been asked to leave at this point. I politely told him that I am just awaiting a friend and that it was freezing outside. He said "That's not my problem... and you still need to go wait outside." I had zero interaction with him or any other staff and had certainly not been rude as they are, nor was I drunk. I found out later that this guy was the owners son and he has free reign to be an ass an does so regularly, and that I should just overlook it. Clearly they didn't know who they were talking to. My advice... Avoid this over priced crap hole. read more

This is something that Nevada City has been needing! A bar for those who want to enjoy a good cocktail, listen to music at a reasonable volume, and be able to have a conversation with the people you're there with. If you're looking for cheap beer, dirty bathrooms, the potential bar fight, and dancing to a sub-par DJ, maybe try up the street, because The Golden Era has none of those things. This place brings some class to downtown but is by no means snobby. Sure, the owner was walking around in a ballgown, but some chick in capris and Birkenstocks looked right at home too. It was on a recommendation that I tried the Grass Valley Girl (gin, orange juice, orange bitters, cucumber, and mint). Funny that I'd get that recommendation because that's probably what I'd pick anyway! It was nice and refreshing, a little sweet, and a little sour. A nicely balanced drink! Prices are typical of what you'd expect to pay in a cocktail bar, so you probably won't be drinking their specialty drinks all night long. They do offer some local beers as well. This seems like a good spot to stop into before dinner or a show. Be sure to check out the back of the menu for some fun information about the history of the building and the bars that they use. read more

Golden Era - The Grass Valley Girl - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Nevada City, California

This place is kind of perfect. Good drinks, good music, good crowd; and not just a certain age group or demographic, everyone's here and welcome. Came here after getting engaged and we're showered with drinks by staff and patrons. read more

The Golden Era has the coolest street and back patio dining scene going on in Nevada City on Broad & Spring Street. Chef Antonio's casual yet delicious menu is outrageous, and matched to perfection with those refreshingly gorgeous mixology drinks. My guys and I shared the Wonton Ahi Nachos along with a lightly breaded prawn plate on a bed of risotto. OMG...our dog, Juan, was drooling, too! Supporting businesses like the Golden Era is a pleasure as they keep up with these crazy-making Covid-19 times by addining a delicious menu, and continuing to hire great bands, who now play on the new back social distancing patio. These owners are a class act while keeping us safe and entertained. read more

Golden Era - Greg and Juan (of N San Juan) enjoying their Golden Era summertime drinks. - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Nevada City, California

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I love the entire staff at the Golden Era! The cocktails are hand crafted right down to the bitters and other ingredients. The pop-up kitchen cuisine is fabulous whenever it's available. A truly special place to visit on special occasions or take your visiting guests! And they have live music most nights! Great atmosphere too! read more

Stopped here for food and drink after our show at the Nevada Theater. This was the only place that offered drinks AND food altho the options were only cheese platter and charcuterie. Ordered the latter. Really good salamis and capicola plus olives, crackers and cornichons. The music was jazzy, the customers were eclectic and interesting. Gorgeous ceilings, festive fireplace for the holidays. Very attentive bartenders. Will definitely recommend to friends and will be back. read more

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grabbed a few cocktails before heading to dinner on 6/22. it apparently was the first day since COVID that you could sit at bar. bartender was kind, cocktails were GREAT, lovely atmosphere. i think they may have or had food, but they were not serving that night, so if youre counting on food, might be worth checking (not sure if it was due to the day of the week or staffing or what). lastly, as a WOC who was a little wary of being alone, it felt very welcoming and had a bunch of signs about equality. read more

My wife and I held welcome drinks at Golden Era for our wedding in Nevada City. The venue is a gorgeous historic spot with a memorable old-time atmosphere. Cindy and her team were incredibly accommodating. They set aside space for us at the back of the venue so our family and friends could gather together but still enjoy the atmosphere the venue. Cindy let us bring in our own catering and let us enjoy the space for a couple of hours without any charge. When our group ended up staying longer than expected and the band started up, Cindy needed to charge us cover for all the guests who were still there, but it was a completely reasonable given that we had been there for a couple of hours already and she had customers waiting to get in. We returned the next morning to take wedding photos in the beautiful bar, and Cindy was there to welcome us with a bottle of champagne. Thanks Cindy! read more

I usually get the coyoteville margarita (perfect warm spice) and the Mexican tequila hot chocolate (reminiscent of my childhood) and I'm always in awe of the people behind the bar. Always feels like a good time in the place when I do get out which is rarely ever. I don't come up to Nevada city as much but I only think of Golden Era when I want to come up. Always been sweet and the cocktails are so balanced and so good. read more

Kind staff, wide selection, great signature cocktails, classy atmosphere with unique decor. Oh and WiFi. So glad I stumbled upon this spot..... read more