DRINK//EAT//DO//STAY
DRINK
STE. ELLIE
Nestled below Colt & Gray (see below), this bar and kitchen put out some of the best food and drink I’ve found in Denver. They cure their own meats (which, let’s face it, is sexy as hell) and their burger is amazing. Make sure to do more than eat … their cocktails are creative and playful; just make sure to get one of their drinks served in their mismatched tiki mugs.
1553 Platte Street
saintellie.com
GREEN RUSSELL
This underground spot is a gem. Expect thoughtful cocktails alongside well-made classics.
1422 Larimer Street (Larimer Square)
greenrussell.com
B&GC
Denver does the speakeasy well. B&GC (The Boys & Girls Club) is one of the most difficult to find, and you have to have reservations to enter. Their incredibly bountiful cocktail menu has something creative and intriguing for everyone. Speak to them about your preferences and they can help direct you to one that will tickle your fancy. And make sure to check out the bathrooms.
Text 720-925-8598 for reservations … they’ll text you the location and instructions to get in.
bandgcdenver.com
WILLIAMS AND GRAHAM
Yet another of the Denver speakeasies, but this bar is not to be missed. Lauded as one of the best bars in the country, challenge them with an obscure classic cocktail or enjoy one of their original libations.
3160 Tejon Street
williamsandgraham.com
UNION LODGE NO. 1
This laid-back speakeasy-feeling spot in an office building is a relaxed spot for an after-work drink or a late night libation. If you can snag a spot at the bar, the bartenders are more than happy to chat with you about their house-made tinctures and tipples.
1543 Champa Street (Downtown)
unionlodge1.com
DEATH & CO
This New York transplant is sure to be a memorable stop if you’re a cocktail enthusiast. The staff is knowledgeable and professional, and sure to make you something absolutely indulgent … if that’s what you’re into.
1280 25th Street
deathandcompany.com
THE CRUISE ROOM
Visit this art deco bar in a historic hotel for a classic cocktail or three.
1600 17th Street, inside the Oxford Hotel)
theoxfordhotel.com
LINGER
This former mortuary now boasts a clever cocktail bar and killer view of the city. (Pun very much intended.)
2030 W 30th Avenue
lingerdenver.com
STAR BAR
If you like a dive bar, this is going to be your place. Expect well-made classics served alongside boilermakers set to the sound of karaoke.
2137 Larimer Street
starbardenver.com
TERMINAL BAR
Hearth & Dram for whiskey
OCCIDENTAL
EL FIVE
EAT
CART-DRIVER
A small indoor-outdoor eatery offering upscale quick-serve options like oysters, wood-fired pizzas, and other unique bites. Grab a cocktail while you’re there, and try to enjoy the patio.
2500 Larimer Street #100
cart-driver.com
COLT & GRAY
I’m just going to give this spot a big YES.
1553 Platte Street
saintellie.com
OSTERIO MARCO
Pizza, mind-blowing burrata, and a fantastic selection of cured meats make this cozy spot one of my absolute favorites in the city. But really … make sure to order the burrata.
1453 Larimer Street (Larimer Square)
osteriamarco.com
OPHELIA’S (go for gospel brunch)
TAVERNETTA
12@MADISON
BRIDER
STK
DO
Ice Skate at the Southwest Rink (in the winter)
AVERY BREWING COMPANY
STAY
Halcyon Hotel in Cherry Creek
This hotel is fucking fantastic, and wildly hipster. The front desk doubles as a coffee and wine bar. The entire place is Instagrammable from the beautiful lobby to the cheeky door mats and record players in the guest rooms. Check out the gorgeous rooftop bar that has a lovely view … if the weather allows. And, most fun, visit the gear locker and check out a skateboard, a GoPro, and even a motorbike that you can take out for a couple hours at a time!
245 Columbine Street (Cherry Creek)
halcyonhotelcherrycreek.com
