The best thing about going to a bar is that you never know what might happen there. Sometimes you belly up and banter with the bartender, who eventually becomes a pal. Other times you overhear hilarious or harrowing tales from strangers as you swill cold pints of beer. Often, you unexpectedly run into an old friend (or enemy), or discover that the person sitting next to you is the spouse of your former college professor. Denver is still a small town, after all.
Sure, a finely crafted cocktail in a swanky atmosphere is nice, and there’s nothing better than a perfectly imperfect dive with drinks that are as strong as they are cheap. But going out to imbibe is about creating memories (even if some of them are blurry), and these are the places where we want to keep making memories for years to come.
- By Molly Martin
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
Campus Lounge
Molly Martin
Bonnie Brae is a neighborhood that’s seen a lot of changes lately, with the loss of Bonnie Brae Tavern and the Saucy Noodle, but the Campus Lounge remains — even after a number of ownership changes. It was founded by the late Jim Wiste (a retired pro hockey player and DU Pioneer alum) five decades ago, and hockey fans still gather here on game days, drinking beer and enjoying classic bar fare done right, from the smoked wings to the newly reinstated salad bar.
701 S. University Blvd., Denver, 80209
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
Charlie Brown's Bar & Grill
Mark Antonation
Colorful characters from Denver’s past are rumored to have bellied up to the bar at Charlie Brown’s, which has been open since Prohibition ended. A sprawling spot filled with the music of nightly piano sing-alongs, it lives up to its slogan: “Something for everyone.” Couples, friends, tourists, young professionals, senior citizens, college kids and even celebrities enjoy the stiff drinks, huge food menu, enclosed smoking patio and free drinks for revelers celebrating their birthdays. Here’s hoping the drinks will flow long into the future at this Denver landmark.
980 Grant St., Denver, 80203
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
Goosetown Tavern
Molly Martin
Located across from the Bluebird Theater, the Goosetown Tavern draws beer drinkers and music fans from the East Colfax corridor and beyond. After Bluebird owner Chris Swank, who also owns Mezcal next door, bought Goosetown from the Wynkoop Restaurant Group in mid-2014, the bar started hosting live music on the weekends. Its rotating cast of regulars gives it a neighborhood-bar vibe, but the energy picks up post-Bluebird shows with a wide-ranging cast of characters sitting in the big booths or taking a smoke break on the patio along Colfax.
3242 E. Colfax Ave., Denver, 80206
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
Stadium Inn
Sarah James
The “Shade-ium,” as it’s known to most who have traversed its stoop, lives up to its nickname. Even though it’s now in the hands of the Little Pub crew, it remains old-school. Questionable characters and drinks cheap enough to encourage dangerous levels of inebriation are the name of the game here. Its proximity to the University of Denver draws plenty of students when school is in session, and they get plenty of life lessons at the Stadium — namely, the character, feel and benefits of a bona fide dive.
1701 E. Evans Ave., Denver, 80210
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
Death & Co
Danielle Lirette
Settle into the opulence of the Ramble Hotel while sipping a cleverly crafted cocktail at the bar or in a cushy lounge seat at Death & Co, a concept that debuted in New York City and planted a second flag in Denver in 2018. At the nearby hotel counter, travelers check in, eager for a night in one of Denver’s most vibrant neighborhoods, but you’re not going anywhere: You’ve already arrived.
1280 25th St., Denver, 80205
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
Ironton Distillery and Crafthouse
Ironton Distillery
The spirits at this RiNo distillery are brought to life in custom-made stills and include genièvre, rye aquavit, rum, absinthe, whiskey and even a gin made with ponderosa pine needles sourced from a tree growing on the tasting room’s 10,000-square-foot, dog-friendly patio. Sip on a local beer or an option from a heavy-hitting drink list that stands up to that of any craft-cocktail bar in town; flights are available, too. Intrigued? Take a tour of the operation.
3616 Chestnut Pl., Denver, 80216
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
Candlelight Tavern
Sarah McGill
The Candlelight Tavern is a friendly neighborhood bar, beloved by residents of all stripes in the Wash Park area. Once a seedy, smoky dive, the place has been spruced up over the years, with a notable overhaul in 2013. Consistency and simplicity are key here: You can count on no-frills, tasty pub grub, as well as solid service. The warm glow of the Candlelight’s vintage sign still illuminates the way to one of Denver’s oldest and best bars.
383 S. Pearl St., Denver, 80209
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
Larimer Lounge
Jeff Davis
The Larimer Lounge does one thing better than anyone else in the area: It brings the rock. Sure, the venue has brought in indie-rock progenitors like Sonic Youth’s Thurston Moore and Sebadoh, but it’s also seen acts like Arcade Fire and Bat for Lashes, which have since outgrown the venue. You’ll feel like a member of the band (or at least a roadie) as you crowd the low-slung stage with a beer in hand after shots at the bar up front, which feels held together by nothing more than years of accumulated duct tape and grit.
2721 Larimer St., Denver, 80205
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
Tatarian
Andi Whiskey
Tatarian makes it a trio for Lenka Juchelkova and Mike Huggins, who also run Union Lodge No. 1 and the Arvada Tavern. This one’s dedicated to the high art of cocktails and the delicate balance of sour, sweet, boozy and bitter. The decor is posh penthouse; your drink might be smoked or bolstered by house bitters and tinctures. Tatarian, named for a type of shady maple that once graced every yard in the neighborhood, is the fanciest branch on the family tree.
4024 Tennyson St., Denver, 80202
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
Bull & Bush Brewery
Evan Semón
Compared to its centuries-old brethren in the United Kingdom, the Bull & Bush Brewery is just a baby, but here in the New World, fifty years is a long time to stay in business. Step inside this dark and cozy English-style pub, though, and you’ll understand its staying power. Now run by its second-generation owners, “the pub you’ve been practicing for” (as its motto goes) serves a long menu of England-meets-Colorado comfort food, like bison burgers, bangers and mash, and green chile, as well as both innovative and traditional house-brewed beers. There’s also a Scotch list to warm the cockles of your heart.
4700 Cherry Creek Drive South, Denver, 80246
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
Milwaukee Street Tavern
Evan Semón
One of the few sports bars in the heart of Cherry Creek North, the Milwaukee Street Tavern seems a bit out of place among the chic stores and restaurants in the area. Like the nearby Cherry Cricket, the place feels very un-Creek — a good thing if you're looking to get away from the neighborhood’s high-priced spots, have a few drinks and catch a game on one of many flat-screen TVs, or even play a round or two of mini bowling. The unpretentious tavern also serves a good selection of pub grub, including sandwiches, wings and burgers.
201 Milwaukee St., Denver, 80206
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
Bannock Street Garage
Molly Martin
In 2004, this former Volkswagen shop was refitted as a bar with a massive garage door at the front, cement floors and a large, open patio. Since then, its divey vibes have made it a neighborhood favorite where crowds gather for First Friday. Whether you shoot a game of pool or play darts, or just settle in at the bar or a heated table out back for a bucket of Montuckys, this is the kind of low-key standby where you’ll quickly become a regular.
1015 Bannock St., Denver, 80204
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
The Electric Cure
Molly Martin
An ode to all things weird, the Electric Cure — motto: "Drink rum, stay weird" — opened in August 2021 with a powerhouse duo of industry vets, Lexi Healy and Veronica Ramos, behind the project. Along with a selection of both tiki and other libations, expect the unexpected: Alpacas on the patio? Penis-shaped totems? Bartenders wearing shark heads? Yelp reviews accusing the place of Satanism displayed proudly outside? It’s all fair game here.
5350 W. 25th Ave., Edgewater, 80214
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
The Dirty Duck Bar
From the looks of this friendly neighborhood dive that survived a fire in 2016, it's hard to imagine the place having anything to do with Shakespeare. But the bar's name was actually inspired by a pub in Stratford-upon-Avon, Shakespeare's old stamping ground. It's a far cry from a traditional pub — Denver's Dirty Duck is more of a low-key sports bar that serves cheap drinks, has Guinness on tap and offers a number of weekly specials. With a slightly older crowd, it’s a nice alternative to the DU bars farther west on Evans Avenue when you’re looking for a low-key place to sip the hours away.
4780 E. Evans Ave., Denver, 80222
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
Dimestore Delibar
Ashlee Redger
With antiques and oddities strewn throughout, an aisle of pantry staples and fun finds like Pocky sticks and hot sauces, as well as an appealing menu that includes “dimeroll” rolled sandwiches, Dimestore Delibar isn’t just a bar, by any means. But the cocktails alone make it a standout, whether you’re hungry or not. Chef/co-owner Tim Dotson was formerly the chef at the Family Jones, so many of the drinks use that distillery’s spirits. One of the best ways to sip here: Enjoy a housemade shrub soda spiked with the booze of your choice while sitting on one of two patios.
1575 Boulder St., Denver, 80211
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
Dougherty's
Danielle Lirette
You can consider Dougherty’s a semi-Irish pub, one that’s catered to all in the Baker neighborhood for fifteen years. It’s also home to hammerschlagen, a game involving a tree stump, hammer and nails — not the safest bar game ever devised, but a damn fun one. The drinks are strong, there are daily happy hour specials, and when the time comes for soaking up that firewater, Dougherty’s also has an excellent pub kitchen and a nice dining room separated from the bar.
5 E. Ellsworth Ave., Denver, 80209
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
Thank Sool Pocha
Lucy Beaugard
This hopping spot filled with people speaking both Korean and English is just plain fun. While it’s often filled with families digging into meals during the early evening hours, as the night grows later they’re supplanted by groups of all ages focused on knocking back tiny glasses of soju and enjoying everything from steamed sea snails and cow-stomach barbecue to mix-your-own rice balls, kimchi pancakes and Korean fried chicken. All of it is served in a lively, convivial atmosphere that's so comfortable you'll feel like a treasured regular by the time your check arrives.
2222 S. Havana St., Aurora, 80014
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
The Crypt
Molly Martin
For a decade, Priscilla Jerez worked at Tooey's Off Colfax, a haven for those looking for drinks and camaraderie with a side of punk spirit after a long shift. Now she's re-created that atmosphere of late-night revelry at the Crypt, where the smoking patio out front is filled with people trading stories (and lighters) under the moonlight. Inside, you're highly likely to run into at least a few old friends while grabbing a cocktail or vegan late-night bite.
1618 E. 17th Ave., Denver, 80218
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
Rino Country Club
Molly Martin
There are a few reasons why this bar has quickly become one of our favorite spots to pre-game for shows at the Mission Ballroom since it opened in May. First, it has some solid drink specials, making it way more affordable than ordering booze at the music venue. It’s also home to a nine-hole mini golf course, and lifetime memberships are available for just $10. Plus, you can grub at Dalton’s, the walk-up window inside that slings one of the best burgers in town, a completely crushable meal that you'll be thinking about long after.
3763 Wynkoop St., Denver, 80216
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
Beacon
Cynthia Griggs
In early 2022, Robert Champion and Mario Nocifera debuted a dance bar/immersive venue inspired by Tulum and Burning Man in the heart of RiNo. The space includes several hubs created by a core crew of a dozen local artists, including a beehive-themed geodesic dome, a garden-like outdoor space and a bar enveloped in vines and forestry. Order a negroni based on how you’re feeling. Inspired? Go with vodka. Fresh? Gin. Burnt out? Mezcal to the rescue. Then settle in for a transportive night of music, art and human connection.
2854 Larimer St., Denver, 80205
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
Bar 404
Molly Martin
The opening of Bar 404 in December 2021 is just the latest chapter in this spot’s long history. Built in 1929, it became a bar the day after Prohibition ended in 1933. In 1951, it was purchased by Jerry Feld, who ran the place for sixty years as Club 404. The building was briefly Denver Wheel Club 404, a bicycle-themed bar, then Brendan's Pub, then Rory’s Tavern until COVID hit. Now it’s back to its neighborhood watering-hole roots, with the restored classic sign beckoning thirsty patrons on Broadway.
404 Broadway, Denver, 80203
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
The Dive Inn
Evan Semón
The Dive Inn has definitely made its mark on Platt Park since taking over the BJ’s Carousel space in 2012. The decor — which includes an actual motorboat as seating — adds to the upbeat spirit of this neighborhood joint. Dogs love the patio, the bar stocks 99 types of tequila, and drink specials are all-day affairs. With activities ranging from ping-pong and pool to cornhole leagues, there’s never a dull moment at this casual spot.
1380 S. Broadway, Denver, 80210
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
The Cooper Lounge
When Union Station was renovated, the mezzanine was turned into one of the most enchanting bars in town: the Cooper Lounge. With its elegant seating areas and long bar fronted by comfortable stools, it’s a great place to meet up with friends from out of town. But it's also become something of a favorite with locals, particularly on full-moon nights, when you can sit on a barstool sipping a martini and look over 17th Street bathed in moonlight. The view is magical. And you might need to be a magician to secure a spot here: There's sometimes a two-hour wait. When you know in advance the night will be special — or just hope it will turn out that way — make a reservation.
1701 Wynkoop St., Denver, 80202
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
Finn's Manor
Courtesy Finn's Manor Facebook
This indoor/outdoor craft-cocktail bar built on the grounds of an old salvage yard has a dedication to quality without the accompanying attitude. One of Denver’s top temples of mixology, there’s almost always a bowl of punch on special, and the tap list is a continuing exploration of rare beer styles. While summer nights are prime time for hanging out and grabbing grub from rotating food trucks under the stars, winter months give guests a chance to explore the deep list of rum, whiskey and other spirits.
2927 Larimer St., Denver, 80205
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
hi-dive
Scott Lentz
The bars at these conjoined spaces (hi-dive and Sputnik) are two sides of the same coin — both a little worn and gritty, but still good for quick shots or planting yourself for the long haul. Since 2003, the hi-dive has been a refuge from crass commercialism and bland bars catering to the masses. Cheap, stiff drinks and a revolving door of creative talent have kept the music venue ahead of the game. Sputnik, on the other hand, offers a mid-century vibe, along with plenty of meatless fare — and perhaps a bottle of Jeppson’s Malört lurking behind the bar as a treat for homesick Chicagoans.
7 S. Broadway, Denver, 80209
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
Palenque Cocina y Agaveria
Palenque Cocina y Agaveria
Mezcal mecca Palenque originally opened in 2018 as a second location of Adelitas but took the Palenque name after former co-owners Silvia Andaya (who still runs the original on Broadway) and Brian Rossi cut ties in 2020. Two years into its new iteration, there's no better place south of the city to learn about — and sip plenty of — a well-curated selection of agave spirits and cocktails paired with eats like tacos, ceviche, mole, enchiladas and more. Bonus: the rooftop patio.
2609 W. Main St., Littleton, 80120
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
Noble Riot
Noble Riot
Noble Riot, which was opened in 2019 by Nocturne owners Nicole and Scott Mattson along with wine veterans Joel Kampfe and Troy Bowen, is a different kind of wine bar — one that ditches stodgy convention for something a little more intriguing and adventurous. Pop in for a glass of pet nat or elegant rosé, and if you don't know what to order, the skilled staff will guide you. Plus, you'd be hard-pressed to find another place that offers crispy fried chicken to pair with that glass of sparkling Le Monde Ribolla or light and airy Grüner Veltliner.
1336 27th St, Denver, 80205
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
Lakeview Lounge
Patricia Calhoun
While the patio outside the Lakeview Lounge has prime views of Sloan’s Lake, Sheridan Boulevard and the Denver skyline, those who love authentic dives will be more captivated by the view inside. The Lakeview is a weathered, classic saloon that time forgot. Clearly a drinker’s haven in an increasingly upscale area, the dimly lit lounge serves mystery shots in brown paper bags and very stiff, cheap drinks. Regulars throw quips, dice and dollar bills at each other, taking a break to plug the excellent jukebox. For those wanting booze for breakfast, the bar opens at 7 a.m.
2375 Sheridan Blvd., Denver, 80214
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
Deviation Distilling
Molly Martin
Gin and tonic lovers should flock to this two-level Dairy Block cocktail lounge where the G&T reigns supreme and is offered in a variety of iterations. The former 1800s firehouse has been transformed into a dreamy place to imbibe, right in the middle of one of Denver’s most vibrant areas for food and drinks. Sit under the bottle light display downstairs or head to the more intimate second floor, where you can gather with friends around a table and discuss all the reasons you love Denver’s only gin-focused distillery.
1821 Blake St., Denver, 80202
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
Tight End
Molly Martin
Denver’s first gay sports bar is owned by Steven Alix (co-owner of the Squire Lounge) and Sudy Kudva. Watch the game from nine televisions, sip a boozy beverage on the sound-equipped patio, and enjoy a safe space to take in all sports. The drink list has all your sports-bar favorites, such as beer — lots of beer — as well as shots of liquor and simple mixed drinks. On quiet nights when there aren't any big games, the Tight End also hosts karaoke and drag bingo, which to some are the greatest sports of all.
1501 E. Colfax Ave., Denver, 80218
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
Embassy Tavern
Molly Martin
This bar on a prime corner spot in RiNo is located in a building that started life a century ago as a drugstore, then housed various incarnations before it became Phil's Place in 2002. In 2018, it was taken over by a group of bar pros who changed the name but kept its spirit intact, offering a low-key respite from the trendy neighborhood outside, complete with pinball machines, a spacious back patio and a giant moose head overseeing the action at the bar.
3463 Larimer St., Denver, 80205
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
TrashHawk Tavern
Molly Martin
Beer-and-shot combos, Montucky cans, Malört and "trash charcuterie" (aka Lunchables) are on the menu at TrashHawk Tavern, which opened in October 2021 in the former home of Alternation Brewing Company. In this era of craft-cocktail bars, it’s a refreshingly low-key addition to Overland that’s poised to become a neighborhood go-to for game days, trivia nights and conversations with strangers over a cigarette on the back patio. Stay trashy.
1539 S. Broadway, Denver, 80210
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
Inga's Alpine Tavern
Evan Semón
This spot in the former Pete's Patio Bar is a kitschy mix of rustic simplicity and retro elegance with solid bar fare and live music. Inga’s was inspired by a Swedish ski cabin, and the battle-scarred hardwood floors look as though they've been deliberately dented by the stomp of ski boots. Meanwhile, tufted, swiveling, brass-studded bar stools are proper perches for imbibing, a dated jukebox blasts tunes that span generations (think Tom Jones to Vampire Weekend), and the back patio is the perfect après-anything escape.
5151 Leetsdale Dr., Denver, 80246
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
Lion's Lair
Jon Solomon
The low ceilings and even lower bar top at the Lion’s Lair make you feel like you’re knocking back beers in someone’s basement. And when the music fires up, you’ll feel like you’ve stumbled into band practice in that basement, with a guitar neck or mic stand only inches from your head. While Denver’s dive bars continue to disappear, the Lion’s Lair just keeps getting grungier; it’s a living piece of Colfax history that we hope never changes.
2022 E. Colfax Ave., Denver, 80206
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
The 1UP Arcade Bar - Colfax
Evan Semón
The 1UP has branched out to three locations in the Denver area, but it's the Colfax Avenue location that's closest to our circuit boards. Sure, the longtimers wax poetic about the days when the 1UP hosted live music — and they're right — but we dare you to find a better place for cheap suds, pinball and classic vidya games in Denver. $2 cans of beer? Check. The Simpsons arcade game and NBA Jam? Check. Pinball games spanning the 1980s to present day? Check. Put a few dollars into the quarter machine, try to reach a high score over some Tecates, and keep the change, ya filthy animal. You'll be surprised at how little you spent.
717 E. Colfax Ave., Denver, 80203
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
The Fainting Goat
Yes, there really is such a thing: A myotonic goat is known as a "fainting goat" because its muscles stiffen when it's surprised, and the animal occasionally falls over. The drinks at this neighborhood joint are stiff enough that a few regulars have been known to keel over, but it's better known as a great casual hangout in an old building that's held great casual hangouts for decades. A comfortable joint where you can grab a beer and a quick snack or watch a game solo or with a dozen of your new best friends, it also boasts a secluded rooftop patio with a lovely view of the mountains.
846 Broadway, Denver, 80203
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
The Cruise Room
The Oxford Hotel echoes with Denver history, back to the days when Bat Masterson relieved himself in the giant urinals in the basement bathrooms. The Cruise Room boasts slightly more recent history: As Prohibition ended, it was designed to look like the lounge on the Queen Mary (hence the name), then got a quick remodel a decade later when the frieze with Hitler’s face — one of a dozen international toasts circling the walls of the bar — was deemed politically incorrect. In the 1960s, it was the headquarters for a group of carousers known as the Evil Companions; in the ’90s, it was discovered by hipsters. Today you’ll find all kinds of passengers hopping aboard bar stools to bask in the pink light and down classic martinis.
1600 17th St., Denver, 80202
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
Retrograde
Molly Martin
The crew at this space-themed speakeasy likes to get weird, which often results in the most memorable cocktails in town — some with ingredients like duck fat, soy sauce and caramel miso (it’s all fair game here). But first you’ll have to stride through the Frozen Matter ice cream shop to the walk-in cooler without being distracted by the desserts or deterred by the fact that you’re stepping into a refrigerator. Once through, you’ll find yourself in a dim room (don’t you dare try taking a photo using flash inside) with cult-classic movies playing on a screen and cocktails served from the mid-mod-style bar.
530 E. 19th Ave., Denver
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
Chopper's Sports Grill
Chopper's/Instagram
Named for Bob “Chopper” Travaglini, the late beloved Denver Nuggets trainer, Chopper’s is a holdout from the Cherry Creek neighborhood’s less tony times. Sports memorabilia and TVs hang in every nook and cranny — bathrooms included — and the grub keeps sports fans fed with bites slightly above standard bar fare. The Tavern Hospitality Group took over the space in 2015, giving an upgrade to the menu and other amenities, but Chopper’s has remained just right for rooting for the home team or catching a game from your alma mater.
80 S. Madison St., Denver, 80209
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
Yacht Club
Molly Martin
Bar pros Mary Allison Wright and McLain Hedges resurrected Yacht Club — once located inside the Source — next door to Brasserie Brixton in late 2021. The new spot effortlessly mixes high and low with a killer wine list and cocktails alongside a menu of hot dogs, all paired with a low-key vibe that’s still cool enough for a first date. In 2022, their efforts were rewarded when Yacht Club was named one of four U.S. finalists for Best New U.S. Cocktail Bar at the 2022 Tales of the Cocktail Spirited Awards. While it didn’t take the top spot, it’s an addition that the city is lucky to have.
3701 Williams St., Denver, 80205
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
Ralston Lounge
Eric Gruneisen
Tucked away in a strip mall off 64th Avenue and Ward Road, the Ralston Lounge is a longtime Arvada fixture. The no-frills neighborhood joint attracts a fair number of easygoing regulars to its early-morning happy hours, and with its nondescript furnishings, it seems like not a whole lot has changed here in the last few decades, which is a big part of the Ralston's charm. Entertainment options include a jukebox, a few pool tables and pinball machines, and plenty of football and hockey watch parties.
6420 Ward Rd., Arvada, 80004
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
PS Lounge
Scott Lentz
The PS Lounge is a throwback like no other. The cash-only bar still looks and feels straight out of the ’80s, which is when it opened. Owner Pete Siahamis calls it a “girls’ bar,” and makes sure every woman who crosses the threshold gets a single rose and a syrupy-sweet Alabama Slammer shot. It’s a go-to pre-game location for people getting ready to hit the Colfax bars or heading to the Bluebird for a show. But the PS Lounge is also the perfect spot for a long chat with old friends — and a good place to make new ones.
3416 E. Colfax Ave., Denver, 80206
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
Don's Club Tavern
Molly Martin
Also known as Don’s Mixed Drinks (because of the wording on the old-school neon sign outside), this is a dive with staying power — it celebrated its 75th anniversary in 2022. Purchased by local bar conglomerate Little Pub Company in 2006, Don’s has retained a certain welcoming “old man’s basement” atmosphere. The secluded smoking patio and Skee-Ball machine are highlights, as is the vending machine dispensing fun packs of such goodies as condoms, burritos, cigarettes, candy and who knows what else. The bar caters to oldtimers during the day and is a packed hangout for the younger set at night.
723 E. 6th Ave., Denver, 80203
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
The Owl Saloon
Molly Martin
An ode to Colorado’s mountain bars, The Owl is packed with treasures, from license plates to the old maps that sit under the bartop glass to the sign from the former Sid King’s strip club. Look up and you’ll see a collection of dollar bills, à la the now-closed Bucksnort Saloon. Settle in for a mystery shot, a cold beer and a lineup of bar grub like loaded tots, sandwiches and pizza. The bar also regularly hosts karaoke and offers day drinking (aka brunch) on weekends.
5026 E. Colfax Ave., Denver, 80220
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
The Sink
Britt Chester
After 100 years and multiple changes, the Sink remains one of Boulder’s most quirky and popular taverns, as much for the good deals on booze as for the famous Sink Burger (which first appeared on the menu in the 1950s) and the history scrawled across the ceiling and walls in the form of customer autographs and Beat-era paintings. Barack Obama stopped in during his presidency, and Robert Redford was a janitor here for a year before he ever hit the silver screen. Over the decades, the Sink has helped shape Boulder’s image into what it is today.
1165 13th St., Boulder, 80302
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
El Toro
Molly Martin
No bull here, just cheap drinks, friendly regulars and beans and rice — really good beans and rice, courtesy of Ed Garcia, whose family founded the beloved Mexico City Lounge. The decor boasts velvet paintings, paneling and an enormous TV in the corner; the menu is slightly less elaborate, featuring basics like greasy fried tacos, beef and bean burritos and menudo seven days a week. Be prepared: This little joint is cash-only.
4957 Colorado Blvd., Denver, 80216
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
Roxy on Broadway
Molly Martin
The music never really stopped when Syntax Physic Opera transitioned to the Roxy on Broadway under new ownership in the summer of 2019. Owner Paula Vrakas brightened up the space and added a slate of reasonably priced, retro-inspired classic cocktails to accompany variety shows, comedy, open-mic nights and plenty of live music. Go early if you prefer a tranquil setting, or stay for the entertainment if you need a joyous night out.
554 S. Broadway, Denver, 80209
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
Piper Inn
Piper Inn/Facebook
The Piper Inn looks like a biker bar — and it is. But it’s also an everyone-else bar. You can find your mom, your co-worker and dudes who ride Harleys all enjoying cold brews and house specialties like Chinese-style wings, burgers and carne asada fries. The bar, which opened in 1968, was named for the Piper airplanes that used to land on a dirt airstrip when this part of town was still the country; people even rode horses to the bar. Today it still offers up free birthday drinks, televised sports, an affordable happy hour and delicious bar food, much of it straight from the pages of a classic Chinese takeout menu.
2251 S. Parker Rd., Denver, 80231
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
The Pioneer
Molly Martin
University of Denver sports teams are dubbed the Pioneers, and we think any frontiersman (or -woman) would appreciate the hearty fare at the Pioneer, a DU watering hole. The fare is bar food, but it’s quality bar food, including top-notch green chile and some of the town’s best nachos, with every chip loaded individually. And if you don’t feel like ordering off the extensive beer menu, wash down your meal with one of the signature margs.
2401 S. University Blvd., Denver, 80210
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
The Wild
Molly Martin
Jake Soffes knows how to build a bar: His first two efforts were Hudson Hill and Lady Jane. His third, the Wild, is casual and airy, polished and mature — but never cold or uninviting. Located in a set-back courtyard right across the street from Union Station, the bar feels like a secret place a few steps removed from the noise and pressure of downtown. By day it leans more toward a coffee joint with a full breakfast menu. At night the lights lower and the food becomes charcuterie and small snacks, perfect for pairing with cocktails and wine.
1660 Wynkoop St., Denver, 80202
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
The British Bulldog
The Bulldog’s dark and shadowy space actually looks and feels like an Old English pub — not a nightclub or a cocktail lounge or a fern bar or even the Punch Bowl, which once occupied this spot. It’s a double-barreled shotgun of a room with the long oak bar on one side and rickety, high-backed wooden booths on the other that are devilishly uncomfortable until you get a couple of drinks in you. Out front, there’s a covered patio just big enough for six smokers to stand without bumping elbows. From the kitchen come a variety of simple pub dishes, livened up here and there with hints of Indian and Pakistani cuisine.
2052 Stout St., Denver, 80205
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
Recess Beer Garden
Danielle Lirette
Shady trees, lots of outdoor seating and nearly every dog in the neighborhood: That’s what you’ll find at Recess Beer Garden, one of the city’s top destinations for day drinking. As the name implies, the focus is on the Recess beer selection, but you can opt for cocktails and wine, too. The food menu is extensive, with everything from wings and dips to a long lineup of sandwiches, or pop into next-door sister concept fieldTRIP for island-inspired grub like Spam musubi and loco moco.
2715 17th St., Denver, 80211
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
Occidental
Mark Antonation
When owner Sean Kenyon grabbed the address next to Williams & Graham and prepared to install a more casual neighborhood bar, he wondered if Occidental would mostly function as a waiting room for its sibling, which sometimes sees waits of three hours. Several years later, he has his answer: This bar has an identity and a following all its own. Occidental’s punk-rock vibe and open seating have made it a neighborhood mainstay, a casual place to get an excellent cocktail or a beer without pretense.
1950 W. 32nd Ave., Denver, 80211
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
Vesper Lounge
Molly Martin
In the fall of 2012, five-time James Beard semi-finalist Frank Bonanno took over one of the town’s most notorious watering holes: the Lancer Lounge, located right between Mizuna, the flagship of Bonanno Concepts, and the current location of Lou’s; Luca D’Italia is around the corner, too. Here, there’s no fuss over housemade bitters, no two-hour waits, no specially chipped ice. There are, however, reasonably priced drinks and some very good snacks with a Middle Eastern flavor. Not to mention good company: This may not be the Lancer, but it’s definitely a solid neighborhood bar.
233 E. 7th Ave., Denver, 80203
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
Federal Bar & Grill
Ashlee Redger
Micky Manor was a north Denver staple for decades before the dive bar succumbed to the ravages of time in 2011. But the Federal Bar & Grill breathed new life into the space in 2013, giving the neighborhood a casual, inviting saloon with a nod to history. The Art Deco bar stretches toward a back room cluttered with ping-pong and shuffleboard tables, while a few comfortable booths in front provide the perfect place to enjoy beer and burgers.
2544 Federal Blvd., Denver, 80211
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
Pete's Satire Lounge
Skyler McKinley
No list of essential Mile High haunts would be complete without a location founded by Pete Contos, the late Greek restaurant magnate. He purchased the Satire sixty years ago, and from its classic neon sign on Colfax to its legendary history (Bob Dylan and the Smothers Brothers both performed here), the Satire Lounge is old Denver through and through, even following a recent update and remodel headed up by Contos’s grandson Alex Barakos. The Satire is a straight-ahead saloon that doesn’t put on airs or follow trends, and the off-kilter assortment of characters who work and drink here wouldn’t have it any other way.
1920 E. Colfax Ave., Denver, 80206
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
Meadowlark
Evan Semón
Owner Loy Merck opened this charming dive bar fifteen years ago, and the Meadowlark has been a popular hangout ever since. To get to the bar, you have to go underground, where shots of cheap whiskey can be ordered without judgment. Outside, there's a patio with a large stage and outdoor bar, perfect for the weekly concerts, DJ sets and live shows that this venue hosts. Grab a slice of pizza from the Redeemer window next door, and enjoy a lowbrow night reminiscent of Denver in the early 2000s.
2701 Larimer St., Denver, 80205
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
Hell or High Water Tiki
Hell or High Water/Instagram
The team behind the Electric Cure debuted this more tiki-centric hideaway on the mezzanine level of Honor Farm, the haunted bar they’re running on the main level of this historic building with a history of ghost stories. The theme of the small but mighty addition to Denver's bar scene: a haunted gay pirate ship. Expect even more penis totems than at the crew's original spot, plus an intimate party vibe that's unmatched in the metro area.
1526 Blake St., Denver, 80202
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
The Thin Man
Tony White
The Thin Man emanates a strong gravitational pull from its location on a darkened strand of blocks between Colfax, Uptown and City Park, drawing in drinkers from near and far. Owner Eric Alstad, who is Greek Orthodox, got his priest's blessing before opening the joint in 2001, covering the walls of the narrow space with Christian icons . These days, the patrons are as eclectic as the decor, and just as entertaining. Praise Jesus!
2015 E. 17th Ave., Denver, 80206
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
Nob Hill Inn
The Nob Hill Inn has been a drinker’s paradise for more than fifty years; it’s daunting to think of all the people who have spent hours on the stools here. This is the kind of joint where it’s easy to lose track of time...for decades. The square-shaped bar makes for easy people-watching, and with some of Colfax’s finest camping out here, it’s usually entertaining as hell. If Bukowski were still alive, this might be his idea of nirvana.
420 E. Colfax Ave., Denver, 80203
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
Star Bar
Courtesy of Star Bar
Star Bar was once one of the diviest of dive bars, where the carpet was sticky and the bathrooms icky. But a makeover in 2010 transformed the place in the same manner that the rest of the Ballpark neighborhood was transforming, turning a questionable saloon into a safe haven for craft beers and cocktails. The bar maintains some of its downscale charm, though, even if the clientele is now young and hip. But you’d have to wander blocks in any direction to find anything else as casual, comfortable and lived-in.
2137 Larimer St., Denver, 80205
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
ESP HiFi
Evan Semón
Vinyl records line the wall at this spot, where music is a central part of the experience. Influenced by the Japanese kissa/kissaten, ESP has cozy, almost homey vibes and a menu that offers everything from comforting teas and coffee to highballs and a rotating selection of natural wines. This is a quiet escape room that captures cool without veering into the overly pretentious.
1029 Santa Fe Dr., Denver, 80204
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
Carioca Cafe (Bar Bar)
Molly Martin
We’ve lost many of this city’s celebrated saloons over the past few years, which makes the survival of Carioca Cafe — better known as Bar Bar, thanks to the triangular neon sign outside — something to celebrate. Perhaps with a drink or ten. For more than a century, this spot has held down the corner of Champa and 20th streets, serving an assortment of regulars, including artists, hipsters, transients and rockers. The drinks are stiff, the bathrooms awful, and the atmosphere beyond compare. Leave your credit cards at home; this place is strictly cash and carry on.
2060 Champa St., Denver, 80202
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
The Retro Room
Ashlee Redger
Pickle shots (and plenty of other flavored infusions) are what this LoDo bar is best known for. The comfy joint, which opened in 2008, has lots of space, exposed brick, darts, killer drink specials, and a menu that includes burgers, sandwiches, wraps and appetizers, along with patios in front and in back. It’s also connected to the Retro Room Salon, making it one of the only spots in town to get a facial and trim immediately followed by happy hour.
2034 Larimer St., Denver, 80205
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
Dew Drop Inn
Molly Martin
Although it only opened in May 2021, the Dew Drop Inn already feels like a longtime neighborhood mainstay. That's because it comes from a team of longtime bar pros — the same women behind such staples as the Horseshoe Tavern and Embassy Tavern, among others. On cold days, the inside is a lively yet cozy respite from the snow; a large patio out front is ideal for summer sipping. Cocktails range from classics to new creations, there are two happy hours daily, and you can get a beer-and-shot combo for $8 anytime. All that is bolstered by the food from Fush, a man who worked at the iconic Falling Rock Tap House for 22 years until it closed. Here he's getting the chance to let his culinary talents shine with big bowls of mussels in spicy red curry, crispy Japanese-style fried chicken and much more.
1033 E. 17th Ave., Denver, 80218
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
Gennaro's
Sarah McGill
There's nothing innovative about the seventy-year-old Gennaro's, and that's just the way we like it. From the black-and-white-checkered linoleum floor to the weathered wooden bar, every nook and cranny of this joint screams nostalgia. Naturally, that extends to the menu: You won't find "twists" or "takes" on anything here, just satisfying, stick-to-your-ribs Italian-American classics. Start with an enormous loaf of garlic bread and marinara or fried ravioli for the table, then chow down on the aptly named "Colossal calzone," Italian sandwiches, pizza, or sausage and peppers. The neighborhood atmosphere is bolstered by regular trivia, live music, open mics and bingo nights.
2598 S. Broadway, Denver, 80210
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
La Bouche
La Bouche
The husband-and-wife team of Alexis and Alex Tréton have long had a passion for wine — so much so that the two left their jobs and home country of France in the middle of the pandemic in order to open this wine bar that bridges French and American culture. It has an elegant black-and-white color scheme balanced by a casual atmosphere that's ideal for lingering over a flight of vino, and it offers a small menu of classic French fare as well as cheese and meat board options.
1100 E. 17th Ave., Denver, 80218
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
Stockyard Saloon
Sarah McGill
During the annual National Western Stock Show, the Stockyard Saloon — located in a historic building in the heart of the old packinghouse district — is the hottest place in town. But this watering hole is worth a visit the rest of the year, too. The second-floor space offers an interesting view of the surrounding neighborhood, and the view inside is usually pretty interesting, too, since cowboys are often rubbing elbows with realtors checking out the area. The burgers and Mexican fare are worthy, and the drinks are strong.
4710 National Western Dr., Denver, 80216
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
The Brutal Poodle
Molly Martin
How do poodles and heavy metal mesh? The unlikely combo somehow works at the Brutal Poodle, opened in early 2018 by Wes Moralez, Ryan Oakes and David “Yosh” Yoshikawa, members of Denver band Son Survivor. Beyond the goofy, dog-themed art on the walls and the (just loud enough) tracks pumping from the sound system, good food and a classic sunken bar beckon the faithful. Loaded tots, great green chile and outrageous metal-inspired specials keep bellies full, the better to soak up rounds of unpretentious drinks and Colorado beers. This poodle’s bite is as good as its bark.
1967 S. Broadway, Denver, 80210
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
Dark Horse Bar & Grill
Evan Semón
Locals and tourists alike have flocked to this Boulder institution — a huge yet divey space filled with kitschy items, antiques and movie props — since it opened its doors in 1975. There are plenty of distractions, from karaoke to live music to games showing on one of eleven HDTVs or on the projection TV in the back bar. And the wacky decor (including men’s and ladies' room signs designed to confuse the inattentive) is a sure conversation-starter. The burgers are the thing to order here: If you feel adventurous, try the Jiffy Burger (peanut butter, bacon and provolone); if you're a little more cautious, go for the Avocado Burger (avocado, green chiles, sour cream and pepper Jack).
2922 Baseline Rd., Boulder, 80303
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
Adrift
Adrift/Instagram
Between the ’60s and the ’80s, Denver had a fairly vital tiki scene, thanks to Trader Vic’s and Don the Beachcomber. But this city’s tiki action was largely extinguished decades ago — until Adrift turned a 2,200-square-foot space on South Broadway into an island retreat in 2012. While the ownership has changed in the intervening years and a few other tiki spots have opened, Adrift’s dedication to Polynesian kitsch has never waned. Paying homage to the thatch-roofed hooch huts of yore, it specializes in modern and classic tiki cocktails as well as Prohibition-era tropical drinks and tasty tropical tidbits.
218 S. Broadway, Denver, 80209
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
Englewood Grand
Evan Semón
Phil and Erika Zierke opened up an instant classic when they invited guests into the Englewood Grand in March 2016. As the bar grew in popularity, the bare-bones joint received a few upgrades: a neon sign above the door, some new patio furniture. Community remains a focal point here, so you’ll often stumble into fundraisers or groups of health-care workers from the nearby Swedish Hospital complex. After a little over five years, the Grand has become as welcoming and comfortable as Phil’s ubiquitous leather cowboy hat.
3435 S. Broadway, Englewood, 80113
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
Stoney's Bar and Grill
Dylan Burkhardt
The website boasts that it’s “a local kind of place,” and Stoney’s definitely qualifies. With Colorado beers on tap, barn wood from Gunnison on the bar and a ski-lift chair from Keystone in the front of the house, Stoney’s is a celebration of all things Centennial State. For entertainment, there’s a stage devoted to live music, Skee-Ball and a weird miniature bowling alley. Stoney’s was brought to life by a team of industry pros, including Will Trautman, who formerly tended bar at Herb’s, and namesake Stoney Jesseph, who has expanded the Stoney’s family to a second location on 17th Avenue and Stoney’s Cantina on South Broadway.
1111 Lincoln St., Denver, 80203
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
Monaghan's Bar and Grill
Evan Semón
The second-oldest bar in town, Monaghan’s opened in 1892, and its current liquor license dates back to the day after Prohibition ended in 1933. The saloon comes complete with underground tunnels leading to the old Fort Logan military officers’ housing, ghosts and committed multi-generational regulars. Rumor has it that Alfred Packer, Colorado’s most famous cannibal, drank at Monaghan’s when he lived nearby. Aside from the history, the bar stands out for opening early (8 a.m. most days), serving delicious green chile and pouring some of the cheapest buy-one-get-one-free happy hour deals around.
3889 S. King St., Sheridan, 80236
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
R & R Lounge
Sarah McGill
This location has been a bar since the 1950s, when it was known as the Coral Lounge. In the ’70s, the bar was renamed the R&R Lounge, which stands for Rick and Roger, the owners at the time. That’s also when the bar became out and proud. Now it has everything a discerning drunk looks for in a Colfax hole-in-the-wall: cheap drinks, weirdos, a certain level of interior deterioration, and a gleaming neon sign complete with martini glass.
4958 E. Colfax Ave., Denver, 80220
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
Brewery Bar II
Molly Martin
Long before there were craft brewpubs in every neighborhood — during the Eisenhower administration, in fact — the original Brewery Bar opened in the old Tivoli brewery. It moved to its Kalamath location while Nixon was still in office (hence the II in the name). Today, if you’ve got a hankering for honest Den-Mex cuisine, you’ll be right at home among the road crews, maudlin-drunk insurance salesmen and local armchair quarterbacks who frequent Brew II, drinking Tinys and ordering some of the finest crispy chiles rellenos in town.
150 Kalamath St., Denver, 80223
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
Olde Towne Tavern
Eric Gruneisen
Don't confuse Arvada's Olde Town Tavern with downtown Littleton’s pub of the same name. The Littleton spot is a cozy neighborhood watering hole with wood paneling, a long bar and high-backed bar stools. It’s a nice little place to get an inexpensive beer or cocktail, but the tavern also serves a good selection of bar food, including big, meaty wings, burgers and sandwiches. It also has plenty of televisions, and a game room in the back with pool tables, Skee-Ball and more.
2410 W. Main St., Littleton, 80120
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
Sundown Saloon
Molly Martin
Boulder: Bask in the sun as it rolls over the foothills…blah blah blah. Ever wanted to duck into a windowless watering hole while your aunt from out of town shops for a fleece vest at Patagonia? Descend into the subterranean Sundown, which promises booze and plenty of it. As its name implies, it’s dark. It’s also dirty (we think; you can’t really see inside), and there are pool tables (we’ve been told; you can’t really see inside). It’s a place where you can completely forget that you’re in Boulder, which is exactly what Boulder calls for at times.
1136 Pearl St., Boulder, 80302
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
The Family Jones
If you’re familiar with the Family Jones lineup of bottled spirits but you haven’t yet made it into the distillery’s bar, you’re in for a real treat. Not only will you find an impressive menu to match cocktails created with your favorite vodka, gin, rum or whiskey, but you’ll taste spirits made just for the bar that aren’t sold anywhere else. It’s like a secret apothecary where mad geniuses work behind the scenes to match the perfect elixir to your tastes. Above your head on the mezzanine, the shiny copper stills bubble and whoosh with something new for your next visit.
3245 Osage St., Denver, 80211
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
The Red Barber
From the Hip Photo
Size does matter. Located on the roof of the new Catbird Hotel in RiNo, the Red Barber boasts (nearly) 360-degree views from its perch six stories above the city. And while there are many other rooftops in town with both city and mountain views, this one has 3,300 square feet of open, inviting space in which to sip cocktails, enjoy light bites and play a game of cornhole. Comfy couches are prime spots for lounging, or opt for the grassy picnic area or a spot near a fire pit — there's even amphitheater seating for live music performances. This is basically the ultimate backyard, in the sky, staffed with bartenders.
3770 Walnut St., Denver, 80205
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
Middleman
Molly Martin
Middleman snuck into an inconspicuous spot on East Colfax back in 2018 and started doing what many bars are doing these days: decorating the walls with street art, mixing creative cocktails with clever names and combining a hint of hipster with working-class sensibilities. But Middleman did it without hype or self-promotion, making this an ultimately unpretentious stop. Add the ever-changing and always impressive small plates of Misfit Snackbar, which took over the food program in late 2019, and you’ve got some of the best bar food in town to go with Middleman’s many shot-and-beer combos.
3401 E. Colfax Ave., Denver, 80204
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
Lincoln's Roadhouse
Evan Semón
The rowdy blues and rock at the Roadhouse fit the rough-and-ready crowds looking for beer and a band on the weekends, when the smallish joint can get packed. Big booths keep colleagues comfy and close for conversation, and the stage is right by the window, so prospective patrons can get an earful before they even venture inside. There's plenty of Southern fare on the menu, like po' boys, grilled Louisiana hot sausage, gumbo and jambalaya, as well as Lincoln's famous pot-roast burrito and meatloaf cheeseburger.
1201 S. Pearl St., Denver, 80210
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
Wide Right
Molly Martin
With cheap drinks — like $3-house-cocktails cheap — solid bar food and tons of events, Wide Right is a haven for artists with a punk-rock edge, right on the edge of downtown. On any given night, you might find an open mic or comedy or karaoke here. Need to escape the world outside? Drop into the Wide Right: You might just find the kind of party you didn’t know you needed.
2100 Curtis St., Denver, 80205
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
Rocky Top Tavern
The old Hill-Top Bar, just north of I-70, was one of the tiniest dives in town — but it had a big group of fans, and that small spot produced a lot of memories. In early 2014, the bar was resurrected as the Rocky Top Tavern. The hardwood floors of the building, which has housed a bar for more than six decades, were restored, a new bar was built, the bathrooms were remodeled, and a kitchen was added. Popular with both Regis University students and longtime Regis neighborhood residents, it’s a prime place to eat and drink on a budget thanks to rotating daily specials.
4907 Lowell Blvd., Denver, 80221
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
Barry's on Broadway
Molly Martin
Housed in the space occupied by the original Skylark Lounge, Barry’s has been a divey escape on Broadway for nearly two decades, often with its namesake owner, Barry Zadikoff, manning the door. Head to the back to play a game of Skee-Ball or pool, pop into the photo booth for some keepsakes, or belly up to the bar for strong, cheap drinks and bartender banter late into the night.
58 Broadway, Denver, 80203
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
The Castle Bar and Grill
Molly Martin
Inside a building shaped like (unsurprisingly) a castle is one of the friendliest bars in metro Denver. The vibe is relaxing and unpretentious, as are the patrons. Snag a 20-ounce personalized mug for $20, good for a lifetime of 20-ounce pours for 16-ounce prices (enjoy them at the sunken bar). The fare is simple but tasty, with budget food specials such as 75-cent wings every Thursday and buy-one-get-one-half-off burgers (among the best in town) on Tuesdays. With karaoke, bingo, trivia and chatty regulars of all stripes, you’ll never be bored when you storm the Castle.
6657 S. Broadway, Littleton, 80121
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
The Horseshoe Lounge
Molly Martin
The Horseshoe Lounge is a powerhouse bar in the Uptown neighborhood with quirky yet tasteful decor, including vintage furniture and a bar top made of thousands of dice. The friendly, motley crew of regulars love the ’Shoe, as they call it, and the joint gets jumping with all sorts of folks venturing in and out of downtown on the weekends. Order a beer and a shot inside along with a pizza from the kitchen, or spend the evening sipping a cocktail on the back patio, the ideal oasis for a smoke and a conversation with a new friend.
414 E. 20th Ave., Denver, 80205
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
Pony Up
REN Creativ
Reasons to love this LoDo bar: late-night kitchen hours, ponies, French bulldogs, French dip sandwiches and sly references to The Outsiders. But even without the pop culture and pups (including an imposing portrait of owner Angela Neri’s dog done up as French royalty), the cocktails and champagne are big enough draws. That, and a roster of sandwiches that serve as an excellent base for just one more drink. “Thank you for a real good time,” reads the neon sign on the back wall of the bar, in a nod to the Grateful Dead. No, Pony Up, thank you.
1808 Blake St., Denver, 80202
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
Bar Nun
Molly Martin
The former Capitol Hill Tavern was resurrected in 2020 when Bar Nun opened in that space, with irreverent decor (think a painting of Jesus with Juggalo face paint and plenty of nun imagery) and a friendly staff that will make you feel like a regular immediately. Whether you’re pounding pickle shots on the enclosed patio or pairing a cold beer with hot wings and pizza at the bar, this spot is a casually cool addition to the neighborhood.
1225 Logan St., Denver, 80203
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
Union Lodge No. 1
Lenka Juchelkova and her husband, Mike Huggins, have a knack for planting excellent bars in neighborhoods in desperate need of good watering holes. After they gave Olde Town Arvada the Arvada Tavern, they went to an underserved block off the 16th Street Mall, nestling the Americana-appointed Union Lodge No. 1 among outposts of fast-casual chains. Deftly executed American classics — the bar’s list pays homage to pre-Prohibition mainstays like the Martinez and the Brandy Crusta — draw a mix of in-the-know drinkers, first dates and visiting business types.
1543 Champa St., Denver, 80202
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
Finley's Pub
Danielle Lirette
Finley’s opened on South Pearl Street in 2012, but it feels as if it’s been in Denver much longer, partly because its neighbor is the much older Candlelight Tavern. It’s a small room with a two-sided bar, which means you’ll feel like you’re part of any conversation that may be happening as you pull up a chair. Beer choices range far beyond typical Irish stout, with a tight selection of craft beers from around the world. You’ll find Irish-fusion bar food, but Finley’s also serves one of the best burgers in town, with shreds of braised short rib mixed in with the ground chuck.
375 S. Pearl St., Denver, 80209
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
Fort Greene
Courtesy of Fort Greene
In 2015, Fort Greene took over the Globeville space that was previously Crash 45, and before that the White Owl, and before that the Portulaca Cafe, a Slavic speakeasy. This incarnation was founded by Eleanor Cheetham and Bretton Scott, two former residents of Brooklyn’s Fort Greene neighborhood, and Cheetham has owned it outright for the past five years. Part comfortable living room, part nightclub and part dive bar, Fort Greene has become a go-to spot for artists, musicians and other members of Denver’s creative class.
321 E. 45th Ave., Denver, 80216
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
Charlie's Denver
Sometimes Colfax Avenue is so idiosyncratic that it risks becoming a caricature of itself. For evidence, look no further than Charlie’s, Colfax’s big, gay cowboy bar. Gaze upon the cowboy-boot disco ball that spins and glistens from the ceiling. Don’t miss the translucent machine that blows money (or whatever else) around as dancers — also spinning and glistening — put on a show within. And look to the stage and dance floor for drag queens, bikers and bears. Oh, my. Charlie’s truly shines in its inclusiveness.
900 E. Colfax Ave., Denver, 80218
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
B & GC
Courtesy B&GC
This speakeasy flies under the radar, but there’s no hiding the sexy of B&GC. Half the fun is pretending to be not quite sure where you’re going as you initiate newcomers to the dim and swanky cocktail temple in the basement of the Halcyon hotel in Cherry Creek. Go for a Sazerac, choose from a long list of craft spirits, or have your mixologist create something just for you. There’s also a small menu of snacks, but be sure to wash your hands before digging in – if only to check out the restroom’s risqué wallpaper.
249 Columbine St., Denver, 80206
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
Sunday Vinyl
Sunday Vinyl
Brought to us by the Frasca Hospitality Group, which also owns Tavernetta next door and Frasca in Boulder, Sunday Vinyl is a wine bar, but it’s also so much more. Backed by the expertise of Bobby Stuckey, a certified Master Sommelier and powerhouse in the Colorado culinary scene, the space has an elegant edge and a lively soundtrack, with a staff that makes wine approachable, telling stories of the makers behind the bottles as they pour. Pair your vino with indulgent happy hour bites, or settle in for a full meal and experience hospitality taken to new heights.
1803 16th St., Denver, 80202
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
Kentucky Inn
Mark Antonation
The Kentucky Inn reopened in December 2017, after a five-month remodel.
The Kentucky Inn, one of the oldest bars in the West Wash Park neighborhood, closed in July 2017 for a remodel and the installation of a new kitchen. Inside, decades of cigarette-smoke stains were scrubbed away, new floors and wood paneling were installed, and a billiards room was added at the back. The original Kentucky Inn never had much of a kitchen, but the expansion brought a menu of bar favorites and a few Southern specialties to match the Kentucky theme, including the award-winning KY Cuban.
890 S. Pearl St., Denver, 80209
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
Forget Me Not
Kayla Jones
When Culinary Creative, the restaurant group behind Bar Dough, Ash'kara and Señor Bear, among others, put its power behind a sumptuous Cherry Creek cocktail bar that opened in March 2021, expectations were high. And they’ve only been exceeded. Forget Me Not, with its lively patio, is a stunner in the summer and offers fun, balanced cocktails year-round that breathe new life into a sometimes stuffy neighborhood.
227 Clayton St., Denver, 80206
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
Historians Ale House
Molly Martin
The long bar at Historians Ale House is reminiscent of something you would find in Boston or Chicago, with its never-ending line of taps surrounded by warm brick walls and sky-high ceilings. Head upstairs to the rooftop patio for some of the best views in the city, and dig into daily specials, brunch cocktails on weekends and one of the best weekday lunch deals in town: a cheeseburger, fries, and beer, well drink or soda for $7.95.
24 Broadway, Denver, 80203
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
My Brother's Bar
Molly Martin
Yes, My Brother’s Bar has a fascinating history: The building has held a bar since the 1870s; Neal Cassady hung out here when it was Paul’s Place; and as My Brother’s Bar, it’s survived with no TVs while playing classical music and serving as a neighborhood joint for the whole city. But the most interesting chapter is the current one: After four decades, a longtime employee and her family bought the place from the Karagas family, vowing to keep My Brother’s Bar going. And the Newmans have, without sacrificing any of that historic charm — or changing the condiment caddies that accompany the beloved parchment-wrapped burgers.
2376 15th St., Denver, 80202
The 100 Best Denver Bars We Can't Live Without
The High Lonesome
Molly Martin
The High Lonesome is no dive bar like its predecessor, the Arabian Bar. The bottle shelves are too precise and tidy, the clientele too young and attractive. But the place is still dark, comfortable and inviting, with few windows to let in annoying things like sunlight or a summer breeze. Denver has its share of patio drinkers in their tank tops and flip-flops, but you won’t find them here. The High Lonesome is built for folks without a care for the outside world while they’re hunkered down over rare bourbons or local beers.
3360 Navajo St., Denver, 80211
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