Winter temperatures didn't hit full force in the Denver metro area until recently, with one of the warmest Novembers the city has seen in decades. But if current forecasts tell us anything, it's that the cold is definitely in full swing. Contrary to the habits of some in the wintertime, social drinkers don't often let a cold snap force them into hibernation mode. This week's question comes from Gary:
I have some dates in the future, and it would be awesome to find some bars with fireplaces. Where can we get a good drink and stay warm? -Gary
When faced with a drink date paired with frigid winds and a dusting of snow, Denverites know that a bar with a fireplace sure beats a spot without one. Throw in a solid beverage menu, and there's no reason to settle for anything less than an intimate, cozy meetup with great cocktails. Here are five top-notch bars ready and waiting with a warm fire.
The Study at The Nickel
1100 14th Street
720-889-2128
Walk into Hotel Teatro and be greeted by a homey, hearth-warmed living room flanked with lofty bookshelves and sizable windows peering onto 14th Street. The Nickel welcomes guests to grab a drink from the bar within the restaurant dining room and settle in near the fireplace, where it's easy to forget you're in a hotel. Enjoy both new- and old-world wines, classic cocktails and Nickel originals — like barrel-aged cocktails nearly as warming as the fireplace itself.
Colt & Gray
1553 Platte Street
303-477-1447
Both restaurant and cocktail bar, Colt & Gray not only touts ones of city's most well-stocked bars, but also comes complete with a dining-room fireplace. Venture here for an intimate dinner, a perfectly balanced classic cocktail or a bartender's choice crafted to your preferences. Wine and beer are also expertly selected and offered at the Colt & Gray bar, and there's even a next stop conveniently located downstairs: Ste. Ellie, where the cocktails keep coming and time fades away.
Fire Terrace at the Art, a Hotel
1201 Broadway
303-572-8000
Situated at the top of the Art, a Hotel, in the Golden Triangle, a patio terrace complete with fire pits awaits. Sure, a patio at this time of year isn't always ideal, but if skies are clear and it's simply cold, the weather shouldn't be a deterrent from visiting this particular spot. First, the staff will provide you with blankets if you ask. Second, Fire restaurant and bar await right inside the terrace, where cocktails and food are also offered. The play? Get your fire fix outside and wander inside if it gets too chilly.
Bull & Bush Brewery
4700 Cherry Creek Drive South
303-759-0333
Bull & Bush Brewery is a brewpub with some surprises up its sleeve. Not only will a visit prove worthwhile for sampling beer brewed on the premises, but nightly specials, an extensive whiskey collection and a roaring fireplace all yield extra charm. Bonus: The Bull & Bush kitchen caters to the late-night crowd, and the pub offers live jazz and movies on Sunday nights.
Punch Bowl Social
65 Broadway
303-765-2695
There are different experiences to be had at Punch Bowl Social, depending on where you land in the building. Sure, you'll find billiards, a gaming arcade, a bowling alley, a full-service restaurant and private karaoke rooms. But you'll also find a lounge with a fireplace and tufted furniture, perfect for relaxing with a drink in hand. Reach the bottom of your drink and need a change of scenery? Just head over to the next room.
Have a question for us? We're happy to find and deliver the answers. Drop us a line at [email protected].
