Anthony and Smith are thrilled to keep this artsy Cap Hill destination alive, particularly as one of the few craft cocktail bars in the neighborhood. Anthony, whose relationship with the business dates back to its soft opening, has worked in hospitality for most of his life.
"I've always wanted to own and operate a space, call the shots," he says. "We've been dreaming about owning some sort of hospitality business together for ten years."
"When we caught wind that this could be a possibility, we really leapt on it," says Smith. "It's such a good business, and the vibes are off the charts. We got pretty lucky and are super grateful to [Pearl Street Hospitality owner Jake Soffes] for trusting us with it."
Cole Anthony (left) and Don Smith are shaping Hudson Hill into your new favorite Cap Hill jazz bar.
Photo courtesy of Hudson Hill
"We can offer something a little different, cater to a large portion of the Cap Hill crowd while also giving people a reason to come across town," says Anthony. "This block is one of the best blocks in Denver: You've got Wax Trax, Your Mom's House, Kilgore Books, Common Collective and even Capitol Convenience."
Both Smith and Anthony have lived in Capitol Hill and recognize the potential for businesses and culture in the neighborhood. Now they are on a mission to make their own contribution.
"When we decided we were buying this place, we said our theme should be 'music meets cycling meets alcohol,'" Anthony says. With many new photos of cyclists adorning the walls and a music events calendar in the works, Hudson Hill is well on its way to becoming the bar of their fantasies.
"One of our first purchases was the new turntable," Smith notes.
Unique lighting and floor to ceiling plants make Hudson Hill and must stop shop in Capitol Hill.
Photo by Connor Stehr
Jazz night debuted on December 12 with a three-hour performance from Corner 3 Jazz, which previously performed weekly shows at Milk Bar. After a successful first event, the trio will continue to perform at the monthly event. "They really just want a place to play their music," says Anthony. If you missed jazz night in 2024, Corner 3 will be back on Thursday, January 9, with a $5 cover at the door.
Despite the changes, Hudson Hill still provides its signature cozy yet upscale interior and a creatively developed cocktail menu and coffee program. "As fun as it would be to be just a jazz club, we want to bring more variety in," says Anthony.
One event to look forward to is a Saturday Night Fever Disco event on Tuesday, January 25, with disco attire highly encouraged. This summer will be a busy season for Hudson Hill, which has plans for DJ events, vinyl nights and music on the back patio.
Now a few months into the new ownership, things are settling down and becoming more routine for Smith, Anthony and their staff. Within the shifting local business scene and the seemingly endless list of closures, Hudson Hill is a light among the chaos.
"We couldn't be happier. The staff is extraordinary," Anthony says.
"And Cole has been absolutely crushing it — best GM in Denver," adds Smith.
Corner 3 Jazz, 6-9 p.m. Thursday, January 9, Hudson Hill, 619 East 13th Avenue. Tickets are $5 at the door.
