The Cove - Twin Falls

Twin Falls, Idaho, United States

From The Cove:

"Established in 1952 by Gene Kopp, the décor and façade were much different than they are today. The building had previously been a roofing store, made of cinderblock, which was painted to tout the original 'The Cove.' Rumors tell of slot machines being residents of the early Cove, before they were made to be removed.

Gene’s son, Richard Kopp, came home from California, where he worked at a ship-yard, in the 70’s to help his father run the business. He introduced the nautical and tiki theme to The Cove, re-faced the cinder block with lumber, and brought many items from the shipyard, including the hatch doors that he made into the Cove tables we still use to this day. He eventually took ownership of The Cove and continued to add tiki flair, rumored to have been modeled after a favorite bar in Mexico, including the classic light fixtures covered with blowfish shades, and other décor that is still proudly cared for, throughout the remodels and facelifts in later years.

During Richard’s ownership, a young girl named Charlotte joined his employment as a cook and worked her way to management and then eventually became owner of the business. Charlotte Meyers' notoriety as the next Cove owner was in her amazing capacity to care for and cultivate an incredibly loyal following of people… lots and lots of people. Her guests became members of her family, whether she called them 'Honey' or by their name, she loved them all. She threw grand parties, danced while balancing shot glasses on her head, and was perpetually the life of the party – whether at The Cove or supporting other local businesses. Her loving nature extended to her predecessors, whole heartedly pouring herself into introducing the next owners to her loyal patrons and friends, and mentoring during the next transitional period.

Debra and Johnny Urrutia purchased The Cove in 2005, having minimal experience in the bar and restaurant industry. They were local entertainers who wanted to have a place of their own to celebrate live music after other venues either closed or traded in their stages for pre recorded music. Deb left her profession in teaching to take Charlotte’s crash course in bar & restaurant management, and, perhaps against the odds, eventually found her footing and came to cherish the role.

Deb and John, with the help of friends, family, and supporters, chose one area at a time to remodel or refurbish. They added a patio for outdoor seating, completely remodeled the bathrooms and kitchen, replaced the bar, and added a saltwater fish tank for guests to enjoy. All the while, there was a strong dedication to keep the integrity of the theme and the richness of the history. Throughout their years of ownership, business has steadily grown, thanks to the continued patronage of loyal guests and an amazing crew of employees who charm first time visitors into becoming the newest members of our Cove family!"