Desirae Washington

This spring, customers of Full Circle Brewing Co. can add a burger to their beer tab.

Desirae Washington, owner of Take 3, is partnering with Arthur Moye, owner of Full Circle Brewing Co., to open her new restaurant, Grumpy Burger Lady’s, inside the brewery’s upcoming location on Fulton Street in the former Zack’s Brewing space.

The project involves a kitchen build out and is estimated for opening in early May.

“I think it’s a good partnership,” Moye said. “I’ve always seen her passion and love for downtown.”

He explained his and Washington’s common vision for Downtown Fresno. He proposed the idea of operating the burger joint inside the brewery.

“Arthur approached me and said that he was thinking about doing a restaurant in the back,” Washington said. “Of course I was like, ‘Yes!’ immediately.”

She hopes to offer pop-ups before the official opening.

“We’ve always shied away from the food business because it’s just not our expertise,” Moye said.

Grumpy Burger Lady’s will feature a different menu than Take 3. The “Smush Burger” pattie is “smushed” into all the toppings, such as bacon or cheese.

Washington will also feature an extensive dipping sauce menu.

Take 3 has been temporarily closed because of the pandemic, but Washington plans on reopening it. But for now, she said the buzz of the new restaurant will help pick up speed.

Under Covid-19 restrictions, Full Circle Brewing Co. has been closed, but Fresno County expects to move to the red tier in the coming weeks. This, combined with a food option, will allow the brewery to reopen to the public with a new space.

When it opens, Moye plans on offering live music.

“We’re excited to have people back to drink and eat and be entertained,” Moye said.

There have been live performances from inside the building, that for now, entertain anyone on the block who walks by. Moye said it’s an effort to get the downtown atmosphere back.

“It takes on a special meaning now to hear live music because it’s been so long,” Moye said.

“Full Circle has a way more diverse crowd than I’ve been really able to get myself. I think it’s going to be a great collaboration of bringing two groups of people together,” Washington said.

“Downtown synergy and revitalization is really important to me,” Washington added.

Customers can follow the journey on Instagram at @grumpyburgerladys.