Denver has exploded with brewing operations that capitalize on some of the unique locally grown beer components, like hops and barley. Local distilleries are blooming as well. While there are plenty of unique beers and spirits around the town, the must-stops are those that combine their unique drink offerings with food and, in some cases, activities to further enhance the evening. Here are six stops that are worthwhile combinations of drink, sustenance, and more.
Primal Axe House
A well-stocked bar and a unique recreational sporting activity make the Primal Axe House a great stop in the south part of town. The bar has local brews plus an exceptional selection of Colorado spirits. Food is optimal for the vibe and activity mixed with the creative charcuterie boards with local meats like apple & gouda sausages and craft paninis. The main attractions are the axe and knife lanes, where you can throw safely and comfortably. On-site coaches guide the never-ever or those who have thrown before to make the experience fun. Primal is the stop for group/team revelry, as these are games of skill that are easy for everyone to participate in.
Six Capital Brewing
Nothing goes with craft beer like good BBQ, and Six Capital has both cruising at a high level. They won awards for their impressive beers, including Kolsch, Blond with razz-matude, and classic Altbier. When combined with the fried green tomatoes, the taster sampler is the decision path to get your choice down to one. The BBQ is just as award-decorated as everything is made in-house, including sides like pickles, hot peppers, and sauces. Two must-sample dishes include the Brisket Blue, which takes perfect brisket and adds blue cheese to make it the ideal sandwich blend. The Barbequeterie Board is the ultimate smoked sampler, with the main smoked meats, sausage, and sides like homemade peppers, beer-infused mustard, and craft sauces. For vegetarians, there are BBQ jackfruit tacos and sliders with the same elevated taste.
Tribe at Riverwalk
Just south of Denver proper, Tribe at Riverwalk in Castle Rock is a cosmopolitan bar with exceptional food. The ambiance is a bit special, with seating and tables where actual elbow room and personal comfort are oozing with artistic design. Here, unique craft cocktails that wow the senses are the rule, like the Orange Julius Margarita. The food is just as scrumptious and creative, starting with the incredible goat cheese Brulé with pineapple and Italian bread. Another starter with just the right spice is street corn seasoned with chipotle aioli, cotija, and cilantro. The over-the-top Al Pastor Mahi-Mahi withblack lentils, bacon, caramelized onion, and pineapple pico de gallo are entrees that combine with the decadent cocktails.
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Cherry Creek Food Hall
This food hall bar is massive as it zigs and zags for much of the food hall. A good selection of local beers, with their own brewery, and elbow room if you want to spread out. The counter is deep enough to function as a table, so you can hit one of the food options and return to the bar and consume. A few steps off one bar end is a game room for group parties and extra fun. The Salty Breeze has arguably the best lobster roll in the area. The Hatchet Wood Fire Kitchen crafts artisanal pizzas that go with any bar offering. Two outdoor seating areas expand your kick-back options.
Prost Brewing
If you have to drink and eat like a German, Prost is your stop in Denver. Each of the three locations, including North (family), Central (enormous energy), and South (Oompa central), has a different character, but the beer and the schnitzel are Wunderbar. Expect a German beer hall where you can order from a true Deutschland beer heritage. The Dunkel is a malty classic, while their Schwarzbier has just the right hints of chocolate and coffee for this dark standard. The best way to decide what will fill the stein is with a flight paired with the meat-laden sausage board or pretzel-zilla. The seating areas go from a quiet location by the food station to a bit more stein-tilting around the bar, then to full-scale fun with the outdoor area of the Biergarten, complete with bands, firepits, and even the occasional local hound.
The Celtic on Market
Smack in the middle of downtown Denver, and a short walk to all the sports venues, is this Irish Pub & Restaurant. The Celtic checks all the boxes, including off-track betting, football fan clubs, and the proper suds and sustenance. The upstairs bar is tight and cozy; get comfortable at the bar or relax on the couch sections. Go two-fisted with an Irish brew and a traditional spirit shot, then hit the tummy pleaser with the chicken pot pie, fish & chips, or bangers & mash. The lower level focuses on the ponies, football, and Formula One depending upon the day’s schedule, it is the gathering spot for group parties and fan clubs. It is an Irish hoot all the way around in the middle of the wild west.
Neil Wolkodoff
Neil Wolkodoff is a travel writer from Denver, Colorado, USA. He covers golf, dining, activities and accommodations from the luxury and unique perspective.
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