Recommended By

Evan Faber

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Is it a restaurant with a great bar or a bar with a great restaurant? If you’re like us, it’s the latter. Either way, expect nothing but delicious. The masculine and warm feel lends itself to a classic cocktail adorned with hand-cut ice, or try Thurman Munson’s Revenge (apple brandy, Cognac, maple, and bitters). With a good percentage of the back bar dedicated to house-made bitters and other experiments, you can definitely find something unique. Kevin Burke and his crew are happy to accommodate with their craft beer and small production wine list as well. (Recommended by Evan Faber, Kevin Burke)

Notable bartender: Kevin Burke

Recommended By

Kevin Burke

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This converted garage is home to a teeming, mixed bag of locals and visitors that are in the mood for the always fresh, mostly local and sustainable food and drink menu. From the summer Garden Party cocktail (gin, fresh watermelon fennel juice, lemon, and black pepper) to a classic Pendennis Club (gin, apricot, bitters, and lime) the bar staff is busy making all kinds of drinks and smiles. Catch some killer happy hour snacks and drinks at one of the reclaimed community tables or from Mike Henderson at the repurposed bowling lane bartop. (Recommended by Kevin Burke)

Notable bartender: Mike Henderson

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Britt Henze

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Steuben’s is a classic American diner that has high standards and puts thought behind every ingredient, from the meatloaf to the Vieux Carre (rye, cognac, vermouth, and Benedictine). First-timers are won over with a burger and beer. And that’s the first step in gaining your trust. The lively atmosphere and knowledgeable staff lead you on to the next great cocktail, whether new or classic, that you HAVE to try. And you do, because the last drink was so great. Pretty soon, twins Randall and Ryan Layman, will have you as regulars just like everyone else. (Recommended by Kevin Burke, Britt Henze, Evan Faber)

Notable bartenders: Randall Layman, Ryan Layman, Mark Grounds

Recommended By

Sean Kenyon

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Over the past few years, Denver’s Lower Highlands has become the discerning foodie’s paradise with the occasional complementary cocktail. Welcome the new liquid crush: Williams & Graham. The run-down corner has been revamped, repurposed, and reinvigorated into a Prohibition-inspired half-bookstore, half-bar. The quaint neighborhood spot offers everything from canned beer to the rarest rum and volumes of cocktail lore to read through. Settle in a booth, gather around a long standing rail, or belly up to the bar, and have a sip of one of the cocktails listed or one made based on your taste on the fly by Sean Kenyon, Joshua Smith, or any other of the passionate bar crew. The cocktail that will ensure a second date? The simply sophisticated, The Lowland Dagger (Auchentoshan Scotch, vermouth, sherry). (Recommended by Sean Kenyon)

Notable bartenders: Sean Kenyon, Joshua, Peter Smith, Courtney Mustaine, Jason Patz