The Factory bar sets opening date

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The Factory bar sets opening date
The Factory patio (on right) and the Whirley Crane cocktail (Photos contributed)

By Kathy Chouteau

The long-awaited opening of The Factory is afoot. The ownership team behind Richmond’s newest neighborhood bar, located at 12517 San Pablo Ave. in Richmond, has set an opening date for Friday, Aug. 7, depending on the COVID-19 heath order.

“We are keeping a close eye on the State and County announcements around Covid, as things progress for openings and possible further restrictions, but fingers crossed, we should be clear to host our neighbors for some delicious drinks come August 7th,” owners stated on Facebook.

At first, The Factory’s hours will be limited to Monday to Thursdays from 3:30-10 p.m., Fridays 3:30-11 p.m., Saturdays 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. and Sundays 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.  (Hours may change, so check the bar’s website before going).

“We are going to start with outdoor patio service only,” said co-owner Tom Lyons on behalf of The Factory crew, adding that the bar has “been approved to expand our lovely patio into our parking lot.”

The bar’s opening date, which was initially set for February 2020, was derailed by the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent shelter-in-place.

With an eye toward health safety, The Factory will use the Resy app so patrons can reserve their seats in advance to avoid lines at the door. All reservations are timed for 90 minutes.

The bar will also adhere to state and local agency guidelines in providing their services, including having all outdoor seating; tables/seating set with a socially distant six-foot buffer; masks required while entering/exiting, using the restroom and while being served; and hand sanitizing stations at the entrance/exit and on all tables. Per The Factory crew, it is permissive to be mask-free with “co-quarantined family and friends” at the table while having drinks.

As The Factory approaches its opening date, its staff will be doing some test-runs. They advise people to check their social media accounts for more info on to-go service regarding their specialty drinks, beer, wine and swag. Orders will be taken at the door.

Like the bar itself, The Factory’s specialty drinks are inspired by Richmond history and feature familiar names like The Pullman, the S.S. Red Oak, the Point Molate Margarita, The Alvarado and The Whirley Crane. Preview them here.

“It’ll be some time before people will be able to just belly-up to the bar and casually just order a drink from the bartender, but at least people will be able to gather safely for an amazing cocktail and great conversation in our lovely patio. Something people are very much ready for,” said Lyons.

For more info, visit The Factory’s website.