The Lounge: Stockton’s Hidden Speak-Easy at The Kitchen at Stonebrier

Looking for a unique cosmopolitan experience no longer requires a trip to the Bay Area. Stockton’s popular restaurant The Kitchen at Stonebrier has been impressing locals for the past few years with their farm-to-fork imaginative plates and unique libations. More recently, The Kitchen has expanded their dining experience with the opening of a secluded retro speak-easy style lounge. The Lounge takes you back to a time when enjoying cocktails was refined and dignified. Perfect for private and unique gatherings, this becomes a true retreat for locals to enjoy a serene haven of luxury.

Co-President Corinna Jones and house manager Angelina Perez shared how bringing this experience to Stockton is also about connecting the community. “It’s kind of been my heart and soul from the beginning,” Corinna said. From floor to ceiling the architecture of The Lounge is decorated with beautiful 1920s-style sconces, wooden walls and dark mahogany couches, giving a stately yet secluded feel. Patrons can sit and partake in classic literary reads from Decameron to Robin Crusoe or play a game of chess while consuming unique libations from the specialty bar.

Yet the ambience is only part of the experience. Angelina described how quality and consistency have been the key. “It’s the people and the staff that unite the experience,” emphasizing that their staff play a key role engaging with guests to create a welcoming atmosphere. In addition, many of their cocktails and dishes are inspired by their customers. “We pull from so many backgrounds,” Corinna added. The Grand Margarita, a mix of Grand Marnier, Patron Silver and Cointreau with fresh lime, inspired by a regular patron, has now become a house favorite and wakes up the senses.

The Lounge is also the perfect place to try new trends in mixology including a new technique called fat washing, which mixes distinct oils with selected liquors; the mixtures are frozen. The fat solidifies, is removed and the liquor is strained. The technique leaves a rich, smooth and elevated taste. Stonebrier’s Classic Old Fashioned is the perfect drink to marry the richness of this novel technique.

The Kitchen also includes seasonal spirits to bring color to the menu, including their Lavender Lemon Drop, a floral-and-lemon-blend vodka-inspired drink, garnished with fresh lavender in a 1920s champagne glass, a perfect complement to The Lounge’s retro style. If you’re looking for something more rustic and gentlemanly, try the Firebird, a Mezcal tequila with pineapple and jalapeño simple syrup with fresh lime. This bold drink continues to develop flavors after each sip.

The Lounge provides the perfect setting to talk business with clients or relax in a private setting. This hidden gem won’t stay a secret for long. Exotic and creative libations await your tastebuds at The Kitchen at Stonebrier.

If you’d like to learn more about the new Lounge, or make a reservation and dine in their restaurant, you can check out their website at thekitchenatsb.com or call (209)-932-9322.