Happy Friday: Here's a good place to find a date

In the Best of Denver 2011, we named Common Grounds the Best Coffeehouse for Finding a Date, thanks to the constant crowd of young professionals who mingle over cappuccinos. And because we're big proponents of ditching online dating and blind set-ups every now and then in favor of meeting people...

By Laura Shunk

May 27, 2011

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In the Best of Denver 2011, we named Common Grounds the Best Coffeehouse for Finding a Date, thanks to the constant crowd of young professionals who mingle over cappuccinos. And because we're big proponents of ditching online dating and blind set-ups every now and then in favor of meeting people the old-fashioned way -- that is to say, face-to-face -- every Friday, we're bringing you Denver spots that we think are particularly conducive to meeting available members of the dating pool.

This Memorial Day weekend, we think you should try your luck at the Ale House at Amato's.

This expansive spot may be billed as a beer hall, but it's a good place to socialize no matter what your poison. And that's because the address, which features two patios that peer over downtown Denver, pulls a mixed group of ale aficionados, Lower Highland residents, pre- and post-Rockies game attendees and men and women just looking to have a good time.

Cozy up by the fire pit, take in the view, geek out about craft beer with someone cute, or just stand in the packed bar -- or on the packed patio -- long enough and you can be reasonably assured that someone interesting will brush past you, excuse themselves for stepping on your foot -- and give you an opening to make a move.

More places to find dates:

- Lola

- Adult spelling bees

- Great Divide

- The Atomic Cowboy

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Laura Shunk was Westword's restaurant critic from 2010 to 2012; she's also been food editor at the Village Voice and a dining columnist in Beijing. Her toughest assignment had her drinking ten martinis and eating ten Caesar salads over the course of 48 hours. She still drinks martinis, but remains lukewarm on Caesar salads.

Contact: Laura Shunk

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