Denver Cocktail Bars Worth Visiting
I’m one of those people who plans a trip with bars as part of the overall experience. A great trip always involves at least one great night out. I love well-made cocktails, a design-forward place to sip them, and an excuse to wear something a little more glam. Duh.
While it goes without saying that Denver is a city that’s all about beer, I did indulge in a few beers and yes, even the beer spa. But I want more than a pint. I want a room that takes me to a whole different place and a different time. I love slowly sipping on a well made cocktail and knowing that I’ll most likely never have it again. That’s the beauty of traveling and trying different specialty cocktails around the world. You honestly might never have it again. I love a bar that has vinyl spinning through an old sound system, a back bar full of bottles you would never find at a typical neighborhood bar, and I want a view to admire. When I was planning my itinerary for Denver, that’s what I was aiming for.
These are the Denver bars worth planning a night around, whether you’re visiting for the first time, celebrating something special, or simply in the mood to stay out a little later.
ESP HiFi
The bar for those who love good music, natural wine, and unique cocktails.
ESP HiFi is at the top of my list for many reasons. The vibe is intimate, warm, artsy, relaxed, and a whole vibe. It’s a records-only listening bar with vintage furniture, textured walls, and candles lit up all over the place. This is the place to go when you’re looking for an afternoon break or at night when you want to loosen up and talk about your day with someone special. I saw groups of friends catching up and couples sitting together on one of the couches, just sipping and enjoying each other’s company, and listening to the music.
I recommend going early if you want a good seat. People really like to take their time here (I mean duh, with cocktails and music that good, you don’t even want to leave). You can order natural wines, cocktails, small bites, and beer (of course). They also have a well curated selection of sake.
I wish we had a bar like ESP HiFi in San Francisco, because it’s a bar I’d genuinely want to go to every day. There’s no pressure to finish your drink, you’re not yelling over loud music, and you don’t necessarily need to dress up to go here. It’s so ambient and relaxed.
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Mezcaleria Alma
Best for mezcal lovers, Mexico City–inspired drinks, and a LoHi night out.
Located in LoHi, Mezcaleria Alma is a Michelin-recognized bar and restaurant known for its extensive Mexican spirits program, agave-forward cocktails, and CDMX-inspired plates. It’s an intimate spot, and it’s one of those places where you think you’re coming in for one cocktail, but you end up with 2 or 3 more on your table.
The drink that really stood out to me was the corn sour, it was bright and memorable. Again, it’s a cocktail I probably won’t ever have or see on a menu again.
Mezcaleria Alma is small and very popular, so make a reservation if you plan on staying for dinner.
Stellar Jay
Best for celebratory cocktails, city views, and a polished downtown night
Stellar Jay is, well, stellar. I don’t have to repeat myself here, you can read more of my musings about this spot on my Denver restaurant guide.
With views of the city, an impeccably moody vibe, and delicious cocktails – this is the place to be in Denver. It’s lively and polished, and I recommend dressing up when coming here. I recommend making a dinner reservation as it is one of Denver’s most scenic places for a celebratory drink.
I would recommend coming here during golden hour and ordering the Espresso Del Diablo. That’s the perfect mix to a wonderful night in Denver.
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An Unending List
While I only have three on my list so far, I do plan on returning back to Denver and exploring more bars.
Consider this my personal, growing edit of places that feel worth getting dressed up for, making a reservation around, or building an entire night out around.
If you are planning a food-focused Denver weekend, read my guide to the restaurants worth making a reservation at in Denver next. Because, in my world, a well-planned bar night deserves an equally well-planned dinner-dinner—and, inevitably, a post-dinner snack back at the hotel.
