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Modesto's State Theater. (Courtesy photo)
Modesto Revealed: An Insider's Guide
Just 40 minutes down Highway 99 are burgers served by roller-skating waitresses, high class Bocce ball courts and indie films. Modesto? Yes. Here's what locals say you need to know.
Where to catch independent films
State Theater of Modesto
Restored to the way it was when it first opened in 1934, the State Theater is a hub for hard-to-find indie and art films. Upcoming films and shows include "Bottle Shock," "World of Laughs," "Witness for the Prosecution," "The Wackness" and more.
Information: 527-4697
Web site: www.thestate.org.
Location: 1307 J St.
Play on an upscale Bocce ball court
Galletto Ristorante
Galletto's offers an Italian experience with authentic Italian cuisine. However, the local secret takes place in back of the restaurant, where a Bocci ball court is set up. They also invite customers to enjoy live bands during the weekends and Thursday night salsa dancing.
Where: 1101 J St.
Information: 523-4500
Web site: http://www.galletto.biz
Best place to see the valley's own bands
The Fat Cat
The Fat Cat has local and national bands, as well as pro-wresting for the over-21 crowd. Eddie Money will perform on Sept. 21. Arrival, a Journey Tribute Band, and a Pat Benatar Tribute band will perform on Oct. 13. North American Wrestling will start on Oct. 19.
Where: 930 11th St.
Hours: Times vary, doors open at 6 p.m. during shows.
Information: 524-1400
Web site: http://www.fatcatmodesto.com, http://www.myspace.com/fatcatmodesto
Bacchus Food & Spirits. (Courtesy photo)
Where to walk and gawk at art
Art walks during the third Thursday of the month in downtown Modesto
Downtown's nine galleries, six antique stores and other local business stay open late as artists come out to display their latest and best work. From 6-9 p.m., downtown becomes a center for art, food and wine.
Where to get four flavors of mojitos
Bacchus Food & Spirits
Specialty: freshly-made strawberry, kumquat, watermelon, mango mojitos
Named after the Greek and Roman god of barley and wine, Bacchus is an upscale hangout that is meant to be comfortable and casual. It's a great spot for drinks with friends or dinner with a group.
Price range: $6-$12 for cocktails
Hours: Lunch is 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Tuesday through Friday; dinner is 5-10 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Open until 2 a.m. Thursday through Saturday, until 10 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday.
Information: 576-8994
Web site: www.bacchusmodesto.com
Location: Corner of 12 and I streets in downtown
The Gallo Center ffor the Performing Arts. (Courtesy photo)
Best place to see a big name
The Gallo Center for the Performing Arts
The Gallo Center for the Performing Arts is Modesto's newest and largest entertainment venue. Performers such as Crystal Gale and Tony Bennett have performed at the Gallo Center. The Broadway play, "Chicago" has been performed at this center, and "Rent" is scheduled for later this season.
Information: 338-2100
Web site: www.galloarts.org
Location: 1000 I St.
Best fries and even better burgers
Bleacher's Grill. (Courtesy photo)
Bleacher's Grill
Specialty: Garlic and seasoned fries, Lonestar and mushroom burgers
When it comes to Bleachers, it's hard for fans to say whether the burgers or fries are better. Either way, loyal customers agree they are best enjoyed together. Manager Louis Ruiz says the Lonestar is a favorite, as it is complete with bacon, cheddar and onion rings all melded together on a hamburger patty.
Prices: $6-$8 for burgers, $1.95 French fries.
Hours: 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday through Friday, 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday.
Information: 521-5111
Web site: http://www.go2bleachers.com
Location: 222 Mchenry Ave
A&W Rootbeer Drive-In. (Courtesy photo)
Where to find car hops and roller skates
A&W Rootbeer Drive-In
Mullen says this Modesto drive-in is the oldest A&W drive-in on the this side of the country. You can still drive-up, and give your order to a waitress on roller skates. Some nights, they have karaoke performed on the back of a flat-bed truck. "It's a real original," Mullen said.
Information: 522-7700
Location: 1404 G St.
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buss owner wrote on Sep 15, 2008 5:33 PM:
De wrote on Sep 13, 2008 10:12 PM:
carlos wrote on Sep 13, 2008 5:34 PM:
Brian wrote on Sep 13, 2008 6:28 AM:
It may have it's problems with crime.
But what large valley city doesn't?
It doesn't have the stuffiness of Lodi.
Yes, my impression of Lodi is it is a stuffy town. "
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