The Mix Downtown Visalia

What’s In "The Mix"?

Story by Natalie Caudle | Renderings provided by The Mix

Set against the backdrop of modern eateries and enticing shops, Main Street coaxes tourists and locals onto its tree-lined lane. With glimpses of yesteryear, the heart of downtown steadily beats tothe rhythm of locally-owned businesses and invites patrons to stepinto the enchantment of its hometown feel.

Initially built in 1912 for the corporate offices of Kaweah Electric,213 Main Street sits in the center of downtown excitement; after adevastating fire in late 2018, the building is now in the process ofbeing fully remodeled. Contractor Mike Fishback has workeddiligently to maintain the charm and historical accuracy of thebuilding, while making room for multiple eateries in an open andmodern space. Exposed brick and original wood floors displaybeautiful century-old handiwork while laying the foundationfor a hip and vibrant gathering spot.

Grant Smith, a native Visalian, has a passion for seeing thecommunity thrive. In partnership with his mother, Linda Smith,Grant owns the family-built company, Rent To Own, and isdedicated to pouring back into his hometown. In conjunctionwith his brother-in-law, Jeff Bischofberger, Grant and the JRC Teamdreamed of turning a dilapidated downtown space into a boomingspot for the community.

With two stories, the fresh space offers a unique dining experience to downtown restaurant-goers that comes with a variety of choices, The first floor will give permanent residence to yummy pop-ups: Bombshell Beans, Scoops Ice Cream, and Quesadilla Gorilla will find a new home in the historical space. Another local favorite staple, Fugazzis, will inhabit the second floor, boasting evening views of twinkle lights and bustling nightlife.

Bombshell Beans, currently a mobile coffee shop with nostalgic rustic energy, is thrilled to have a new place to call home. Owner Stephen Mohr comments, “This is our first experience with a brick-and-mortar, but we’re very excited to be downtown; it’s going to be an amazing experience. We have a good old-fashioned feeling; good vibes and good coffee.” The coffee shop will continue to pour their seven-bean espresso by employees dressed in a style reminiscent of the 1930s. Downtown patrons will have an additional late-night option for the perfect cup of joe.

Serving smiles since 2018, Scoops Ice Cream caters events from their retro mobile cart. Family-owned and Visalia-grown, Scoops has dreamed of having a permanent spot to serve customers daily. Justin Kauffman, co-owner, beams, “Downtown Visalia is the perfect spot for our first store and will allow us to serve our community some delicious desserts alongside some amazing restaurants. We look forward to being a strong community partner.” In addition to their traditional favorites, the new location will offer fresh menu items for any sweet tooth: sundaes, baked cookies, and ice cream sandwiches are just a few of the scrumptious choices that will only be available in the downtown spot.

The wishes of loyal customers will be granted as Quesadilla Gorilla will soon have an indoor space with more seating. Mimicking the style of their Hanford location, Miguel and Mikayla Reyes will continue to serve their OG quesadilla options but with an added flair of chips and salsa and a full service bar. Mikayla exclaims, “Our incredible margaritas have totally stolen the show! I still can’t decide which I love more, our guava berry margarita or the mango habañero.”

Mingled around century-old columns, the open space concept of the first floor creates the perfect atmosphere to sip, munch, and catch up with friends. The building’s façade will be a combination of brick and copper metal sheeting accents.

Upstairs will be a destination all its own. When beginning this project, Grant hoped to bring something unique to the space. “For us, the second floor is the heart of this project and we knew we had to focus on it first. Early on in the project, we met Mike Fligor and the Fugazzis crew; from day one, we knew he was the perfect fit for the space and someone we could build the rest of the concept around.”

Music, spirits, and traditional menu favorites will weave the familiar Fugazzis feel into the modernized second floor. With a bar overlooking downtown, intimate gathering rooms, and restored historical architecture, customers new and old are sure to be scrambling for a reservation. “Fugazzis is excited about moving to our new home after spending 26 years in our current location,” says Mike Fligor, owner and entrepreneur. Mike promises the restaurant will be just as inviting and lively in the new version as it was in the original. “Our new restaurant is being designed by an LA firm and promises to bring downtown Visalia a new hip version of an old favorite.”

Only one space remains open in the building, but the owners are confident that the newest addition will perfectly complement the other restaurants. Visalia is ready for a new gathering spot. The refurbished Kaweah Electric building, soon to be known as The Mix, will perfectly entwine the feel of original Main Street with the modern vibes patrons crave.