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Strong Water

4.4 (23 reviews)
Open 3:00 pm - 11:00 PM

Strong Water Photos

STRONG WATER ATMOSPHERE

What's the vibe?
Intimate
Outdoor seating

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Recommended Reviews - Strong Water

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Drink
Norman W.

If you're craving a night out that feels like a step back in time, Strong Water in Chico is the place to be. From the moment you spot the rustic, vintage-style Strong Water sign above the entrance, you know you're in for something special. The charm starts right at the door, where they've kept the original peek-through window for that speakeasy vibe--a small but playful touch that makes every visit feel like a bit of a secret adventure, sure to get friends talking. Inside, the seating areas offer a cozy, low-light ambiance that still provides enough brightness to enjoy your surroundings. It's perfect for intimate conversations and laid-back gatherings. There are charming nooks with plush seating and small tables, surrounded by art on the walls and candlelight that adds a warm, nostalgic glow. For groups, they've arranged seating with pairs of seats on each side, giving you and your friends a little extra room to settle in comfortably. The bar itself is just as impressive, running nearly the length of the room, with both high-top chairs and lower seating options so you can relax without having to climb up to a bar stool--a thoughtful detail that adds to the overall comfort of the space. Strong Water's new patio extends the experience outdoors, offering a relaxed area to enjoy drinks in the open air. With sturdy wooden tables, black metal chairs, and string lights above, it's the perfect spot for warm Chico evenings. You can unwind with friends under the stars, soaking up the cool, modern twist on that classic speakeasy vibe. One of the best parts? They've expanded the menu in all the right ways. You'll find a cocktail selection that doesn't just hit the spot; it makes an impression. Try Falling in Loreto, a tequila cocktail with spiced pear and cranberry liqueurs. It's that perfect sweet-tart mix that feels like being whisked away to the Sea of Cortez. Or the Turkey Hunt, a blend of Buffalo Trace Bourbon, fresh grapefruit, and herbed honey syrup from their on-site herb garden. It's got this earthy, aromatic vibe that feels like fall in a glass. If you're looking to keep things alcohol-free but still crave something crafted and complex, Strong Water has you covered. Golden Hour, made with a hemp-based spirit and botanical flavors, is not only delicious but has calming, anti-inflammatory perks. Or try Kava Horchata, a creamy, cinnamon-infused drink made with traditional Fijian kava for a relaxing, slightly numbing experience that's perfect for winding down. The snacks are just as memorable. The Chopped Brisket Sliders, served on house-baked brioche buns with BBQ sauces, bring a rich, smoky flavor that's hard to beat. Then there's Bougie Popcorn--yes, it's bougie in the best way, with truffle oil, roasted pistachios, and just the right amount of sea salt. If you're planning to snack, though, make sure to order early! On opening night, these popular bites ran out toward the end of the evening--a testament to just how much people loved them. Prices are refreshingly approachable: cocktails at $13, non-alcoholic options at $10, and snacks from $4 to $12. Strong Water is cash only, but they've thoughtfully provided a fee-free ATM on-site to help keep prices down. It's easy to enjoy a night out without stretching your budget, offering an experience that feels special without the splurge. And it's not just the food and drinks that make this place remarkable--it's the people. The staff is friendly and genuinely invested in making sure you have a great experience. Strong Water is the kind of place where stories are made. A simple night out can turn into a memorable experience. On my last visit, I even reconnected with old friends and met a few new ones--the kind of night that just keeps you smiling. Before long, they'll know your name, and you'll know theirs, making each visit feel like catching up with an old friend. Strong Water's vibe practically invites you to connect, whether with friends you came with or new faces across the bar. They go above and beyond to make sure you leave happy. And the best part? Strong Water is open seven days a week, so there's no excuse to miss out. If you're tired of the usual bar scene, Strong Water is a breath of fresh air. It's the kind of place you tell friends about--a spot where classic speakeasy vibes meet a cool, modern twist. Whether you're there for a night out or just a relaxed drink, this place is an absolute must-visit. Go see for yourself. Don't just take my word for it--you won't regret it, and you'll probably be back as often as I am. Maybe I'll see you there!

Crane berry, not bad. A little bitter
Landon S.

Drinks are amazing, the bartenders/mixologists are very nice. And will sub any part of the drink for you to something better suited for your taste. Ambiance is great, feels like you're at a high class restaurant.

Blanton Old Fashion is excellent!!
Ace A.

Excellent drinks!! Hemingway is really good!! Old Fashion is even better!! Really like coming here!!

How our drinks were served... very pretty but half full which was disappointing.

We have visited twice since the new ownership. The first time was great. It was a Tuesday so it wasn't very busy but the bartender was very helpful and friendly and the drinks were great. We went back on a Saturday and had a completely different experience. The service was poor, we ordered the same drink we had before because it was so good, and it came half full which is ridiculous because they are already very small glasses, we had to wait forever just to be able to place our order, and to pay our bill. My suggestion would be to go on a weeknight to get the best experience.

Kentucky blackberry
Shannan T.

Wow- this is such a little treasure for Chico! We'd heard about it from a friend, but it's hard to describe just how unique he ambiance is inside the bar. Classic speakeasy all the way. Everything is on style, from the wallpaper down to the etched glasses. 10/10 on decor! We tried 4 different cocktails and all were perfectly balanced and delicious. They make their own mixes and add-ins, like the black pepper and berry for the Kentucky blackberry (pictured). Can feel a bit pricey for Chico, but with stellar service and fantastic ingredients it's really a steal. I can't wait to go back!

Raspberry Whiskey Smash
Matthew R.

Best cocktails in town - seriously. These bartenders take their job seriously & make some delicious drinks that anyone who loves a good cocktail will enjoy. The atmosphere is very relaxing as well, not too loud not too quiet - just right. I suggest this to everyone of my friends who enjoy a fancy spot for a good drink and have never heard anything but great feedback! Keep doing it right, Strong Water!

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3 years ago

When my wife and I want a great cocktail, this is where we go. The ambiance is awesome.

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4 years ago

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5 years ago

Always a favorite to visit! The drinks and the bartenders are amazing! This is a hidden gem.

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Review Highlights - Strong Water

They make their own mixes and add-ins, like the black pepper and berry for the Kentucky blackberry (pictured).

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The Pour House

The Pour House

(979 reviews)

$$

In Chico for a baseball game I drove by this nice outdoor patio restaurant with cute lights that…read moreyou could definitely see when you're driving by. So what I did the next game I told myself I'm definitely stopping there. Once inside it's super nice and very spacious. They have a beautiful restroom it's all pink with a huge wall art you could tell they payed attention to detail. Even the bathroom ceilings have wall art on the ceilings. Don't forget to look up next time . The inside consist of pretty much 3 areas. There is one big room. It looks like it was more like a private room. There's a little section on the way to the bathroom that has this beautiful tree with lights when I looked close enough there was a little monkey hanging on one of the tree branch . Then they have the other area once you first come in that it's near the bar overlooking the outside with the big windows . Last but not least you cannot forget about the massive patio with its own huge bar with a massive TV in the middle. It's just a very great space. The food was really delicious. Their menu is pretty massive. I was trying to decide what to pick.. I went with a Rancher burger cooked to my liking which was so perfect for me . I upgraded to the black truffle fries . For drinks my favorite was the lavender one so refreshing. They have a nice Happy Hour every single day pretty sweet right ? The service was excellent from the beginning to end . I could tell this is the locals hang out spot and I see why . The prices were very reasonable specially with the generous portions . Can't wait to go back when in the area .

Food and beer was gd!! Restaurants was clean. They didn't get my order right but I didn't send it…read moreback, so my party wouldn't wait. Maybe the kitchen was busy or the waitress.

The Banshee - Bahn Mi Taco

The Banshee

(878 reviews)

$$

The food, the service, the vibes of this establishment was best! My wifes' burger/fries was top…read morenotch! My Pho, been to Vietnam twice, took me back there...1st time there - not the last! 5 stars!

I really liked this place. We were visiting Chico, and seeing what yelp had to say, and the…read morepub-plus-Magners-on-tap-plus-fun-looking-sandwiches made it a winner. We had kids with us, so we got there an hour before it became 21+. Everyone was friendly, the food came pretty quick relative to how hopping it was. We ordered: Pho-rench dip (w/fries)--I think this was a DDD sandwich, so it's not some hidden gem, but it was super tasty. You cannot go wrong. The slight lime-iness of the dipping broth really kicked it into turbo. Also, we all likes the steak fries--a note on that later. Chicken Cheese Steak (w/fries)--my wife loved it. I tried a bite, and it was great--a little mushroom-forward, but we like that. Mac and Cheese--do not be fooled by the slightly smaller bowl, it is very filling. My son can eat his birth weight in pasta, and he had to tap out! I tried a bite--it was creamy (not grainy at all), and was just the right amount of salty and cheese-funky. Grilled cheese and tomato soup (w/fries)--perhaps the least successful for my family, but only because my daughter prefers a smoky/spicy tomato soup, and this was more on the sweet side. The griled cheese was of the "crispy cheese on the outside" ilk, which my daughter thought was really good. So, totally would go again. IMPORTANT NOTE (to people traveling through Chico, or who don't want to take leftovers)--the sandwiches are pretty big, and the add-on fry order is also sizeable. If we were going again tomorrow, we would either order 1 fry instead of 3. Or split a sandwich. Very very good pub.

Strong Water - cocktailbars - Updated May 2026

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