Hidden Gem: Thompson & Twain
If you were to walk down Front Street in Old Town, you wouldn’t even see it. If you were to enter the trendy Crush & Brew restaurant, your eyes still wouldn’t land on its doors. If you were to wander around a bit inside Crush & Brew, you just might need a waiter to point you in the right direction.
Talk about a Hidden Gem!
Tucked away behind the unassuming red swinging doors at Crush & Brew lies one of Temecula’s best-kept secrets: Thompson & Twain, a speakeasy-style saloon that masterfully blends Old West charm with modern creativity. If you didn’t know it was there, you’d walk right by—and that’s precisely the point.
Step through the doors, and you’re transported to another world. The intimate, dimly lit space channels the spirit of a vintage saloon, complete with Western memorabilia, quirky pop culture references, and enough hidden Easter eggs to keep you scanning the room all night.
Buffalo heads, a jarred snake named Sam, and even a well-hidden Baby Yoda are just a few of the surprises waiting to be discovered.
Opened in 2017, Thompson & Twain takes its cues from iconic Western-inspired media like Westworld and Red Dead Redemption. But while its ambiance is steeped in nostalgia, the experience is anything but stuck in the past. Bar Manager Steve Fylpaa describes the vision as a “2024 twist on the Old West,” welcoming patrons of all ages and tastes.
The star of the show? Their “Dealer’s Choice” drink menu. Here, the bartenders’ skills truly shine. You pick your spirit, be it whiskey, gin, rum, or even rye, and share your flavor preferences. From there, the talented team crafts a custom cocktail tailored to your tastes. “We’ve got some of the most skilled bartenders in town,” Steve shares proudly.
For those craving a bite, Thompson & Twain also offers small plates like their charcuterie skewers, expertly curated by Chef Journey from their sister restaurant, Espadín.
Finding this hidden gem is an adventure in itself. Accessed through Crush & Brew, it’s a first-come, first-served experience—no reservations allowed. As Steve says, “Get here early, or be prepared to wait…it’s worth it.”
For locals and visitors alike, Thompson & Twain isn’t just a bar; it’s an experience that captures the soul of Temecula’s Old Town while offering something completely unique. Discover it for yourself, and don’t forget to look around—you never know what hidden treasures you’ll find.
Check them out at 28544 Old Town Front St #101, Temecula, CA 92590
Watch the interview here: Discover Temecula’s Hidden Speakeasy: Inside Thompson & Twain
