Meet the New LGBTQ Bar That Opened in the Arts District

The Garden, the new gay bar from Eduardo Cordova in the Arts District, planned to open on March 20. Then along came the coronavirus pandemic. Three months later, Cordova, who opened Santos Guisados Tacos & Beer in Fremont East in February 2019, quietly debuted with a menu of small bites, sharable dishes, and a cocktail menu in the former Mingo Kitchen & Lounge space on First Street.

Outside, the bar features a garden patio, water fountains, and flowers. A wraparound bar with a white stone countertop creates the centerpiece for the bar, while overhead, crystal chandeliers accented with gold hang over brass and green velvet booths and bar stools, paying tribute to Mid-Century decor. In the center of the lounge area is a custom-made ornate fireplace that also serves as the DJ booth.

Chef Jorge Castillo created a small menu with some vegetarian items that includes a charcuterie pretzel board, Angus beef sliders, truffle Parmesan fries, cauliflower wings, spicy chicken tenders, pot stickers, and sweet potato fries.

The Garden offers free parking, no cover charges, and a non-smoking atmosphere. In July, a brunch debuts. For now, the bar requires a $40 minimum per person and a 90-minute reservation time.

The Garden, 1017 S. First St., Suite 180, 702-202-0900. Open Thursday through Sunday from 6 p.m. to 1 a.m.

The Garden

The Garden [Official Site]

The Garden [Official Site]

The Garden [Official Site]

The Garden [Official Site]

• A New Gay Bar Promises Brunch and More in the Arts District [ELV]

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