Ever get the urge to swap your daily hustle for a dash of adventure and a killer cocktail? Slide on over to Thompson & Twain Prospecting Co. in Old Town Temecula. This spot isn’t just a bar, it’s a wild, wonderful escape—think old west saloon meets modern-day chill.
Step Through The Vault: The Entrance Oozes Cool
Here’s a pro tip: You don’t enter Thompson & Twain from just any front door. You walk through neighboring Crush & Brew, spot a big red door and a bank vault that’s just begging to be opened, and—bam!—you’re in. The vibe changes instantly to low-lit, moody western. Mismatched antique chandeliers dangle overhead. Vintage wanted posters line the wall. Cozy armchairs and plush stools coax you to sit, stay, and sip your worries away. Visiting feels less like “going out for a drink” and more like you’re starring in your own show.
Cocktail Pioneers on Duty
Thompson & Twain doesn’t mess around with their cocktails. The bartenders here are all about serious craftsmanship with a playful wink—they’ll build you a custom drink on the spot. Love bourbon? Lean toward gin? Prefer your Old Fashioned with a twist? Let them know your mood, and watch them conjure up the perfect sip.
The menu leans hard into rye, bourbon, and gin, but don’t sweat it if you like something lighter (or stiffer). Ask about the punch bowl—a fabulous choice if you’re rolling in with friends and like the sound of sharing something delicious. Even the classic cocktails get a little extra swagger here, so don’t be shy about trying something you’ve never heard of.
Want something really fun? The bartenders thrive on building new flavors—so point them toward your favorite tastes and get ready to be surprised. It’s a genuine conversation-starter, and half the fun is seeing what you end up with.
Social Hour, Western-Style
Here’s where Thompson & Twain shines: it’s social, it’s playful, and it’s full of personality. Whether you’re catching up with friends, plotting a date night, or rolling out with the crew, this is the place to swap stories and laughs over killer drinks.
Music is always just the right side of groovy. The lighting is moody enough for whispered secrets but bright enough to snap a picture of your drink (which, by the way, will look exceptionally photogenic). The staff here love their regulars but also know how to make newcomers feel instantly welcome—don’t be surprised if you leave with a couple more friends than you came in with.
The Rules: Old West Decorum Meets Modern Manners
This isn’t the wildest saloon in the west, so you can keep your pistols and barfights at home. Instead, you’ll find a spot all about good times and good vibes.
Dress code? Fancy Western gear is fun, but not required—come as you are and get comfy.
Phones? Don’t expect to call ahead—they run walk-ins only, just like the old days. Real life, real people, real fun.
Group size? Roll with your best seven friends, max. Large parties are capped at eight, and everyone gets two hours to drink, laugh, and soak up the fun.
Age policy? Sorry, kid—21 and up only.
No Food Here, Just World-Class Drinks
If you want to tie on a feedbag, stroll next door to Crush & Brew or Espadín. Thompson & Twain is laser-focused on liquid refreshment, so beer, wine, and munchies are best enjoyed at their neighbors. Here, it’s all about the artistry of cocktails: no distractions, just pure sipping pleasure.
When to Go: Set Your Watch, Then Toss It Away
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Monday to Thursday: 5:00pm – 10:00pm
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Friday and Saturday: 5:00pm – midnight
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Sunday: 3:00pm – 10:00pm
Plan a date night, happy hour, or a lazy Sunday afternoon with friends. The time just slips away in here.
One Last Thing: Come Curious
Part of the charm at Thompson & Twain is going with the flow. There are no reservations, no stuffy rules, and no pressure to be anyone but your fun-loving self. Walk in and discover your new go-to hangout—where everyone knows how to make a perfect drink and an even better story.
So, next time you’re in Temecula and want something a little legendary, you know where to find it: 28544 Old Town Front Street. Grab your crew, open the vault, and start your story at Thompson & Twain Prospecting Co. Sipping’s never been so easy—or so much fun.
Sources: thompsonandtwain.com, yelp.com, Thompson & Twain Instagram Page
Header Image Source: thompsonandtwain.com
