Drink of the Week

As many of Denver's seedier neighborhoods undergo gentrification and John's TV floods our public airwaves, finding a hooker in thigh-high boots walking Colfax just isn't as easy as it used to be. But the Lounge, a swank, newish joint on the corner of Colfax and Marion Street, stays true to the roots of the 'hood with its Purple Dominatrix specialty shot ($4). Made with Kettle One Citron, Amaretto, Peach Schnapps, Blue Curaao and fresh-squeezed lemon juice, it may taste like Hawaiian Punch, but it will punish you worse than a whip-wielding woman in bondage leather.

Flickering white candles illuminate deep-crimson walls and dark wood columns, making the Lounge's plush couches, carved fireplaces and meandering back rooms the perfect setting for a secret rendezvous or late-night make-out session. With friendly veteran bartenders serving tasty appetizers, a pool table and a jukebox stocked with everything from Radiohead to Johnny Cash, the Lounge is already a smash hit with Capitol Hill locals. Whatever trouble you pick up while walking home is up to you.