The Modernist is a great craft cocktail spot in downtown Fresno in the brewery district, right next to Tioga-Sequoia Brewing. Parking is exactly what you'd expect for downtown, so just make sure you lock your car and don't leave anything visible. We went around 5 PM on a Thursday. It started fairly quiet and gradually got busier throughout the evening, but it never felt overcrowded. They do have a rule that if there's a waitlist, your time may be limited to about two hours so they can seat other guests, which is reasonable for a place like this. The drinks were fantastic. I honestly didn't have a bad drink all night. They offer cold drinks, room temperature drinks, hot drinks, and just about every type of spirit you can think of. The cocktails are very creative, and the bartenders will actually warn you ahead of time if a drink has flavors they think you might not like, which I appreciated. The bartenders were excellent and really knew what they were doing. We had a spicy margarita, mojito, whiskey smash, an ube cocktail, and a few others, and all of them were great. Prices were fair for the quality, creativity, and overall experience. Not cheap, but definitely not overpriced either. One thing I really respected was that they had Narcan and fentanyl test strips available on-site. You don't see that often, and it shows they actually care about people's safety. If you're looking for craft cocktails in Fresno, this place is definitely worth visiting. I'll definitely be coming back. read more

Had a great time with some girlfriends during the Miracle on Fulton Street event. Ordered two drinks each and a few snacks and it was perfect. Very busy but it was buzzing with good vibes and decor. Menu options were fun and we had a great server. Love coming here. read more

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Had been wanting to try this place and the vibe there was so chill and vibrant. My bartender name was Kennedy. She can create just about any drink you have in mind! She can do any spirit or flavor I'm craving and she mixes it all together and exceeds every flavor and spirit on every level!! By far best drinks I've had in Fresno in a long time and I will keep coming back just to see her and have more of her delicious drinks! Thank you for making my first time there such a great time.Request Kennedy yall!! read more

Modernist - Call her the Bar Whisper/Bar Goddess Gave her my favorite spirits, flavors was craving. request Kennedi yall! - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Fresno, California

Located in downtown on Fulton St. wedged between a taco shop and (ironically) another cocktail bar. It has a very clean and sleek modern look, except during the holidays when they go all out and transforming it into something straight from Buddy "The Elf's" hometown, it's magical! In their menu is a cocktail roadmap. You answer "yes" or "no" to questions with each response leading you to the type of cocktail you'd most likely enjoy, I was led to the 'fairest of them all' cocktail. A gin based drink with dry vermouth, lavender tea, red apple cordial, and a red ice ball. When the red ice ball melts it changes the color and the flavor profile of the drink! The boozy science behind this drink is truly awesome. The first sip offers a nice hit of gin with a little bit of the lavender tea on the backend. The drink starts as rosé color, as the ice ball melts it turns dark pink/red color. The flavor goes from a floral note to a sweeter tasting cocktail. Truly a work of art! A great post dinner cocktail bar to let the food settle and hang. read more

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I visited during the holidays. It was very cute. The wait for 2 people was about 30 mins on a Friday night. It wasn't a long wait. But it was cold! Most of the bartenders were nice and friendly. They were super busy so not very attentive but did what they could. The drink prices weren't terrible but I felt like it was average quality cocktails in a novelty cup. I don't know if I would make it a point to visit again. But if I have friends wanting to go, I'd join them. read more

We recently visited Miracle at The Modernist, and it was such a fun night! The drinks were flowing and the bartenders truly know their craft -- every cocktail was mixed to perfection. Most of the staff was upbeat, energetic, and super easy to talk to, which added so much to the overall experience. There was one bartender -- an Asian woman -- who seemed a bit less friendly and kept a pretty stern expression the whole time, which made it unpleasant trying to engage with her. But aside from that, everyone else really helped make the night enjoyable. We were laughing nonstop. A super fun bonus? If you order the Naughty & Nice Santa shots, you get to keep the souvenir shot glasses -- such a cute holiday keepsake! If you're social and love interacting with the bartenders, definitely sit at the bar. If not, there are other seating options where you can keep more to yourself and still get great service. And the décor -- wow! The entire place is bursting with Christmas spirit. The bar is dripping with lights everywhere to the festive vibes even in the bathroom area. You can't help but feel the holidays everywhere you look. You might even spot Buddy the Elf! Highly recommend checking out this holiday pop-up if you're looking for amazing drinks, fun energy, and a seriously festive atmosphere! read more

Modernist - Always love getting a koala drink! - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Fresno, California

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Good drinks here honestly , friendly service nice atmosphere not a lot of people here but honestly i don't mind

First time visiting The Modernist after only seeing it on Instagram, and I really liked it. The bar area is spacious, and the back has comfy couches with nice, dim lighting. Service was great--we were greeted, seated quickly, and told about the specials. Overall, a really good experience. I'd come back! Drinks were good as well. read more

Modernist - Mojito - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Fresno, California

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Gorgeous drinks, a fun menu, and cozy seating are just a few of the great features of this downtown bar. They were dimly lit and had cute little signs up to really set the vibe, including a little fluorescent sign with their logo and name on it. Hilariously, I am not a drinker, so I ordered a virgin piña colada. It was pretty tasty, the only thing that made me sad was it was a lot of ice. So I ran out of drink really quickly. The presentation was perfect though, and I'd definitely return again! read more

Modernist - Pina colada - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Fresno, California

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Modernist is an eccentric bar not just ordinary drinks but the creativity and infused spirits that they make magic happen. Never been disappointed! This is a must stop in Fresno!! I give this 10/10! If you're in town and wanna have a great cocktail this is for you!! Vibe is very relaxed! You can go dressed up or dressed down! Great stop before or after dinner for cocktails! The service is great! If you're not sure what your tastebuds are looking for definitely ask the bartender/s and they will make you something adventurous or something slow and easy!! Hope you stop by this awesome establishment! P read more

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Heard of the Modernist through social media, loved all the pictures of cocktails and decor, I saw online. Wanted to be included in the holiday festivities, so made reservations for Christmas week. The Christmas vibe is phenomenal. Everywhere you turn is decked out in Christmas cheer. How can you not be in the Christmas spirit coming here?? The bartenders and servers are so welcoming , as soon as you walk in the door. They had a good list of holiday cocktails. Not sure what we tried, but they screamed winter, cold and Christmas in both of our cocktails. Loved Miracle at the Modernist, might become our new tradition! read more

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I'm here for the Miracle on Fulton Street! I just love how they have this every year during mid November-December. They really deck the halls if you know what I mean. I'm all here for the decor. It's so festive here and they have a menu just for this duration when they have Miracle. Definitely recommend reservations because it gets pretty booked in there. There are certain drinks that come with the cup but some don't. You can still purchase a cup if you like. Service is great, our bartender brought our drink out pretty fast. We got the naughty drink and boy was it strong for a little shot like that. Got to keep the little Santa cup which was cute. Great spot to gather with friends during the holiday season. read more

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We come here once a year for Christmas miracle. We love the lights and Christmas feels every year. Super disappointed there was no cocktail with egg whites this year. Menu seemed lackluster. Our sever was nice and other staff checked on us as well. read more

Modernist - Christmas miracle - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Fresno, California

Stopped by for a drink, I been here before but on a busier night where I didn't even have a seat but it was a Tuesday Night and there were seats a plenty. The ambiance always had this chic cool cat vibe. The drinks here are always made with good intentions with quality over quantity. Our mixologist took very much care into the drinks she was preparing, gave her some time to mix it up before taking our order because there was soooo many drinks to choose from. We went with Hotter Stuff Baby Tonight & Golden Child. I really liked my drink but I would probably need a double. Maybe a nice place to go on 50 first dates;) read more

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10/10 I used to go to tower all the time. Then breweries started opening. Would go a lot but felt there was a lot of hipsters that thought their ish didn't stink. At first I thought that's what I was getting into. Couldn't have been more wrong. From the service to the ambiance the place has it all. Everyone is so helpful and attentive to questions and suggestions. They kind of limit how many people come in. Which I love. Makes it where you feel like a lounge vs a bar. If you are on the fence about this place go check it out. You'll go back I promise you that. read more

Modernist - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Fresno, California

Cocktails are surprising! Stuck to non alcoholic since designated driver. They've an incentive bartending staff delivering some peculiar and interesting combos read more

Checked out The Modernist while in downtown Fresno, and it did not disappoint. Upscale vibe, solid drinks, and great service. The drink menu is extensive, which I always appreciate, but the real star of the night was the Thai Me Up, Scotty cocktail. This thing tasted exactly like an orange creamsicle with a nice pandan leaf for garnish. So good that we had to order a second round. The bartender and hostess were both super friendly, which added to the overall experience. They also offer non-alcoholic drink options, which is a nice touch for anyone practicing Dry January. Heads up--they don't really serve food, just some snacks like Chex Mix. But you can order food from next door and bring it over, no problem. Definitely a plus if you need something to go with your drinks. Happy hour gives you a lil discount on their classic cocktails, so if you're looking to try a few, that's the move. Definitely a spot I'd come back to next time I'm in town! read more

Modernist - Thai me up scotty - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Fresno, California

It's always a fun time at the Modernist! There's lots of options on the menu for whatever you're looking for, whether it's shots, classic cocktails, or specialty cocktails developed by their own bartenders ranging in a wide variety of flavor profiles. When you go during the holidays, the place is decorated so on theme and the staff are dressed to the nines. There's even a little flowchart on the menu if you're indecisive and overwhelmed by the options so you can decide. My fave has been their Key Lime cocktail (I forgot the actual name but I'm sure you can find it). Not super acidic or sweet, and there's a light creamy foam situation on top. Seating is somewhat limited, but there's an outdoor area with bar stools. Staff are friendly and attentive even when you're in the outdoor area. Prices are decent as well, but there's no food, so my friends and I will often go next door to grab some tacos/quesadillas. Will be back at some point, I'm sure! read more

Great atmosphere, drinks and service were amazing. Definitely going back next Christmas season!

Wow was a great cocktail bar! Went here with a group of friends all our first time and the experience was incredible. Service was top notch, atmosphere on point, and the drinks were delicious. Would happily go here again in the future. Highly recommend you check this place out for a nice fun drink. read more

Well I wish I could say this bar has improved but it's only gotten worse.. so first they ID you like 2x then they sit you down like your at a restaurant and a server comes and takes your order. Oh and make sure you have a " reservation " oh and you are limited on time you can stay. Also you can't order a drink until you're completely done with your current drink and ur next drink ( full of ice ) when ur server decides to come back to ur table will take 10 minutes to make/come. Also you can only pay on two cards max so make sure you don't bring 5 ppl with you. The lights flicker the wallpaper is all torn up this bar is so overhyped it's ridiculous.. but hey it's the " aesthetic " right? -.- read more

Modernist - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Fresno, California

I've never had food here. I enjoy the ambiance and there service is quick. There is free parking and the drinks are delicious.

Happened to be in town for a conference and was intrigued by their purple margarita. Turns out they were have a PRIDE event so they had limited speciality cocktails. They were great and there were drag queen DJs so that was awesome! read more

Modernist - Pride Party Cocktails - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Fresno, California

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Such a great experience here! It was my first time going to a bar in Fresno and this one really hit the marks for me. I loved the atmosphere so much and the service was just so great! I liked the drinks a lot too, some were quite interesting but they were great to try! I feel like I would definitely come back here again. read more

Modernist - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Fresno, California

If you want to step out of the same brewery-vibes and enjoy a nice cocktail and conversation, this is the place for you. Walking into this bar, you're greeted by the friendly bartender and staff. They make you feel at home with a wide variety of drink options and the bartender(s) are masters of their craft. I recommend sitting at the bar and watching them make drinks. So much attention to detail - you can tell they really care. Loved this place and the drink options. Will definitely be coming back. read more

Modernist - Flying chancla beer - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Fresno, California

I've been to the Modernist a handful of times over the years and never had a bad experience. The service is always great every time I go. The drinks are strong but super well-balanced and I love that they switch up the menu seasonally while keeping the classics.. Nice bonus that they have non alcoholic drinks too. Such a great spot if you wanna grab a drink with friends! read more

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I LOVE this place. Amazing cocktails, friendly and very knowledgeable bartenders and beautiful bar. What more can you ask for? Highly recommended! read more

I've been here several times and I always have a good experience. Some of the employees can make you feel a bit rushed but usually they're pretty great. The drinks are always strong, delicious and refreshing. I like that they have a rotating menu and their usuals too. The ambiance is very modern sleek and relaxing from the burst of colors. In the end of November the whole place turns into a beautiful decorated Christmas wonderland. I've had the honor of visiting. The drinks were served in festive cups and it made me that much merrier. A great place for cocktails or mocktails with friends. Plus they let you bring food in from their neighbors Dab tacos. read more

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This place has some of the best cocktails in town. My wife had one of the specialty cocktails. Bangkok something. She was in love, she said it tasted like red curry in the best way possible. I had an old fashioned and a scazerac. Both were top notch, balanced and delicious. Our bartender was fantastic, we went early in their day and it was quiet. She told us all about quite a few of the drinks and gave us a little information on the fall/winter menu. A great time was had. Oh yeah! We had the house mixed nuts and they are fantastic! read more

Modernist - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Fresno, California

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Intimate set-up with comfortable seating in the back of the establishment for twelve of us to celebrate with various libations, made to order. 5 star service seals the deal! read more

This place is always such a great spot to go and get a unique cocktail. The staff is friendly, incredibly knowledgeable, and will always help to get you something you'll like. The bar is SO CUTE both inside and out. I love seeing all the bottles displayed and the decor is so fun. read more

Modernist - Drinks - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Fresno, California

Came in for a quick cocktail before heading home! Grabbed some food from next food, they were happy to let us eat there. Tuesday is Happy Hour, but who can pass up egg whites and a cocktail made by the bartender!? The vibes were great, the place as buzzing but plenty of room for people to join! The service was quick and helpful! Love a place that can do a cocktail right! read more

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A cute bar in the brewery district next to Dab Tacos. Cute tables in front near the bar or intimate couches in the back. Very cute decor! A menu full of interesting fruity and classic drinks with a twist. I ordered a classic magarita, but when it came it was purple! The waiter said they infuse their tequila with something to make it that color. My friends ordered a berry almond milk drink, which they said was delicious! Service was excellent. We were immediately greeted and seated. The waiter was patient and explained a lot of their drinks and was helpful in helping us choose one. As a bonus there is a bbq food truck parked nearby and also Dab Tacos nextdoor. You can order food and have it brought in while you enjoy your drink! My friends and I chose to get some loaded nachos from next door to share which were delicious! A great combo with these 2 places right next door to each other! I will be back! read more

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Cute little cocktail lounge. Love this place. I'm not a big drinker but I like that they have interesting flavors that you can get anywhere. The drinks are pricey, but they definitely try to make it a experience. I like how the switch up the themes. Worst seats are the ones on the wall next to the bathroom. Always people walking by. There are non alcoholic drinks but it's to much for a drink with no alcohol in my opinion. Can't wait until they have food. I heard small bites will be introduced. read more

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I have been here at least a handful of times and have yet to have a bad experience. The bartenders are chill and fun and really listen to you when you ask for a drink and state what you like. Its busy but they don't let the crowd be shoulder to shoulder, which is really nice and I love when they have their pop ups with holidays. I just wish the prices were a little lower, but I get it, you are paying for everything, experience, specialty, ect. read more

Modernist - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Fresno, California

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Best cocktail bar in Fresno! Love the ambience and great service! It has a great selection of drinks.

Our drinks were good, thanks to our server, Eric for such a chill vibe if that what your looking for in a random Tuesday. read more

Modernist - Idfk - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Fresno, California

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The seasonal themes sell this bar for me! I think its so fun to go to a fully decorated bar. It reminds me of the bay area. The drinks are a little different, for higher palates. So be aware if you truly like alcohol this is for you. Otherwise you're mostly going for the vibes (which is still worth it!). The bar is a tight space, as a bigger person it could feel a little uncomfortable especially with a lot of people around. read more

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We are from the Bay Area and came for a wedding weekend and we decided to end our trip with some cocktails. Big shout out to Brian the bartender for making our night. It was a very slow and calm Sunday and we came just during last call however he made our night by still giving us a round of drinks before they closed. He recommended some great choices in drinks and they were all delicious. He recommended more options to where we can go around the area in case we still wanted to continue to drink. Very friendly staff, holiday themed made the place look vibrant and pleasant, amazing drinks. Will definitely be coming back! read more

I was so excited to pop in here with my friend after work, and I really wanted to like it more than I did. Not sure if the business can or wants to address this, but Siri kept directing me up and down Mono and saying I'd arrived when nothing was there. So then I looked up the address instead of asking Siri for Modernist, and I saw it was on Fulton. Once I found it, parking was a bit hard to find after work on a Thursday; my friend and I worked late so we just missed happy hour (although we would have been there in time if it weren't for Siri...). Anyway ...we parked around the corner and down a little way on Inyo. Once we arrived the place wasn't horribly crowded. But instead of a regular bar where you just walk in and sit anywhere, they want to seat you -- although we didn't see a sign saying "please wait to be seated" -- which would have been nice to know. So first we were led to a place where literally a guy was taking up all the space where one of us would have sat. There was room for only one seat and the other one of us would have had to stand in the main aisle / walkway, blocking the main place where people had to walk up and down. No. But the person seating us didn't notice that (?) She just left us there, stumped. I've been a hostess of a place larger than this little bar and I feel like that's something the typical hostess would notice --that there was literally no space for our party at the table she took us to, because a guy at the adjacent table was taking up a full extra space. There was nowhere for him to go either. So then we had an awkward moment walking back to the hostess and saying "yeah we'll sit at the bar instead please" and then being sat right next to the open door (it was cold). I wasn't about to say anything else at that point -- so ...next to the open door it was, I guess to have us at the far end and preserve space for other bigger parties. Like, I get it ...probably it would be filling up later, but at this point I was feeling incredibly unimportant and unwelcome. Then it took a really really really long time before either of the bartenders offered to take our order: even though ...there we were, at the bar, looking like we were ready to order. What else do you do at a bar? It was weird. Again ...it was not all that busy at 6 pm. So honestly it felt like we were getting kind of bad / inattentive service for no reason, after being seated by an inattentive hostess. Obviously I take account of how crowded / lively a place it is. I want to emphasize it was not crowded. So it was just weird. The drinks were fine, they were actually tasty and seemed to be made out of high-quality ingredients, except there was a weird rock hard lime slice in my drink. Maybe it was just there for aesthetics. Mixing drinks is not my speciality; I'll just say my mule tasted really good, credit where credit is due. And my friend liked her apple drink, served in a cute glass. The best part of the experience was the drinks, and perhaps that's as it should be; but on the other hand, if you're going to commit to the "cute Christmas pop up" trope, you probably want to make sure you emphasize the service and commit to welcoming the guests and acting happy to see them even if you don't care. I just did not feel a welcoming or festive vibe at all, and that's why I was bothering with downtown and the inconvenient parking. I wanted festive and welcoming. We also had to ask for a glass of water. Four. Times. It got embarrassing. Just more lackluster service. I'm sure we got there on a bad night? Maybe there was stuff going along in the employees' lives or whatever. Maybe any other night we would have felt welcomed, but I don't really want to go back and try again. I just really wanted a fun festive time and didn't have it. I was really disappointed. I was thankful for the company of my really great friend, because we had fun catching up and I'll always enjoy myself whenever she's around. She's probably the reason this place gets three stars instead of two. But the experience at the bar was blah and didn't leave me wanting to return. It was just weird. read more

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