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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Highland

Cool bars

Made for those who judge a bar by its atmosphere as much as its drink menu.

Based on 505 Opinions
+502
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Updated May 2026
01
The Nearby Bar image 1
The Nearby Bar image 2
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Small, cozy bar with a hidden, intimate setting offers a laid-back, unpretentious vibe where the crowd feels friendly and relaxed. Bespoke cocktails crafted without a menu create a unique, artistic experience complemented by great music and a casual atmosphere.

Small and hidden, this bar offers custom cocktails tailored to your taste with friendly, knowledgeable bartenders. It feels like a comfortable, unpretentious neighborhood spot with unique and delicious drinks.

A unique concept drives the vibe here, with bartenders drinking rejected drinks and crafting new ones. The spot stays busy and vibing, creating a solid energy throughout.

People are saying

"The bar crafts amazing, bespoke cocktails tailored to your taste."

"I loved telling the bartender what I liked for a unique, surprising cocktail."

"It's cool how they craft unique cocktails just for you."

Good to know

1

There is no menu; just describe to your bartender what you want in a drink.

2

The drinks are fairly priced, making it accessible for most patrons.

3

Expect a fun and interactive experience with bartenders crafting drinks based on your preferences.

02
The Devilโ€™s Drink image 1

Bar with devil-themed decor creates a dark, eclectic vibe and intimate layout. Music matches the theme with fire playlists, while a room with four pool tables offers a social spot. Cocktails, especially espresso martinis, stand out alongside unique bites like lobster roll and truffle popcorn.

A devil-themed bar offers a unique vibe with delicious cocktails crafted by a skilled bartender named Demi. The atmosphere stands out as a great thematic experience.

Dark, cool atmosphere sets a relaxed tone. Bartenders are friendly yet mysterious, matching the vibe with elite espresso martinis and a goth music edge.

People are saying

"The drinks here are strong and feel a little dangerous."

"The cocktails here are unreal and made by someone who understands they should feel dangerous."

"The espresso martinis here are to die for."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is available on Sundays with discounted drinks.

2

A 20% automatic gratuity is added to all orders.

3

There is ample parking available on the block.

03
Dearly Departed image 1
Tapas restaurant

Basement speakeasy offers a dark, moody atmosphere with cozy, historic vibes and an immaculate cocktail program featuring creative drinks with ice balls. The space feels like a hidden neighborhood spot rather than a hype destination, with a cute, well-decorated bar and a calm, inviting energy.

A hidden neighborhood spot with a cute, well-decorated vibe offers an outstanding menu of creative cocktails. Bartenders and the bar manager show strong craft knowledge and provide great service.

Late night hours create a cool vibe in the basement setting. The spot feels super cool and relaxed.

People are saying

"Their cocktails are creative and well-balanced."

"The food here was incredible and fantastic."

"Their creative cocktails are well balanced and intentional."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great deals on drinks and appetizers.

2

The bar has about 10-12 open spots at the counter.

3

The cocktail program features classic and experimental options.

04
Lady Jane image 1

Spacious yet cozy bar with plant-forward decor and feng shui layout creates a classy, timeless atmosphere. The vibe is intimate and romantic, featuring unique, creative cocktails and themed drag performances that engage the crowd regularly.

Spacious yet cozy, this bar offers a classy and comfortable vibe with a cool atmosphere. Impeccable cocktail service stands out here.

Cocktail bar offers a cool vibe with a Christmas atmosphere and music. Ambience feels relaxed and stylish.

People are saying

"I found the cocktails and spirits here to be amazing."

"It's a cute and intimate spot, perfect for date nights."

"The drinks here are unique and delicious."

Good to know

1

The bar accepts only cash payments and does not provide change.

2

A 20% auto gratuity is added to all bills.

3

Happy hour is a great time to visit for discounted drinks.

05
The Family Jones Spirit House image 1

Small cocktail bar with theatrical setup and modern, cozy decor creates a refined yet comfortable vibe. Quiet atmosphere encourages conversation, complemented by great tunes from a DJ. Known for superb cocktails and comfy seating that stands out in the neighborhood.

Locally distilled alcohol features prominently in a curated bar experience with a unique theatrical setup. The decor stands out more than other cocktail bars nearby, and the bartender is friendly.

Modern, hip interior sets a cool vibe. Drinks match the atmosphere with excellent quality.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are creative and perfectly balanced."

"The bar's vibe is refined, cozy, and modern."

"The cocktails were amazing and the service was super attentive."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs until 6:30 PM on Saturdays with $8 classic cocktails.

2

The distillery offers light snacks and drinks before dinner.

3

Private events can be executed perfectly at this venue.

06
The High Lonesome image 1

Dark, cozy bar with a western, barebones feel and intimate setting hosts a lively, friendly crowd mostly of men. Music stays fun and not too loud, complementing the sexy chill cowboy vibes. A pool table sits in the back, adding to the local, authentic atmosphere.

Small and authentic with a friendly vibe. It blends a bougie dive bar feel with a neighborhood bar atmosphere.

Pool table stands out with a cool vibe. The mirror near the pool table adds a unique touch. The neighborhood bar feels relaxed and cool.

People are saying

"The bartenders here are so knowledgeable and make specialized drinks."

"The pool table and atmosphere here are just freakin' cool."

"It's so moody inside, dark with a cozy, barebones feel."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers discounted drinks, making it a great time to visit.

2

Cocktails are priced around $15 each, with cheaper options during happy hour.

3

The bar stays open until 2am, perfect for late-night outings.

07
My Brother's Bar image 1
Traditional American restaurant

Old-school corner bar with historic character and a gritty vibe offers a classic dive bar atmosphere. Outdoor patio features shade from umbrellas and ivy, creating a relaxed setting. Live classical music plays, and no screens are present, enhancing an authentic, no-nonsense mood.

Cozy bar with a historic vibe and a solid selection of brews including affordable pitchers. Known for great service and a back patio seating area.

A rough bar atmosphere with an old school corner bar vibe sets a cool tone. The place holds a connection to the Beat Generation that adds to its unique character.

People are saying

"I thought the burgers here were the best Iโ€™ve had in a long time."

"The atmosphere here is really cool and rustic."

"The bar food, especially the burgers, was delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging, so consider using public transport.

2

During major sports events, the bar gets very busy, so arrive early.

3

Food is available until late, making it a good late-night option.

08
Highland Tavern image 1

Large garage doors open to reveal city views and create an airy, inviting space. Multiple TVs show sports, and pool tables and arcade games add lively entertainment. The atmosphere feels local and comfortable, drawing groups and sports fans alike.

A laid back bar with a local hangout vibe and amazing drinks. The food stands out with fabulous bar dishes like pastrami tavern dip and pork rinds, plus daily specials.

A cool hangout with decent food and drinks sets the vibe here. Pool tables add to the relaxed atmosphere.

People are saying

"This local spot has amazing bar food, especially the Bombshell sandwich."

"The tavern tots here are out of this world!"

"It's a cool place to hang out with decent food and drinks."

Good to know

1

Highland Tavern has a happy hour with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

The tavern gets busy during games for the Nuggets, Broncos, or Buffs.

3

A 5% livable wage fee is added to all food orders.

09
Recess Beer Garden image 1

Outdoor patio with multiple bar areas creates a spacious indoor-outdoor vibe. Atmosphere shifts from laid-back daytime to lively Friday nights with music and games. Dog-friendly spaces and ample seating make it a popular spot for casual hangouts.

Wide open covered bar offers both indoor and outdoor spaces with a secure bar setup. The area fits about 60 people comfortably with snacks and an open bar option.

Outdoor patio offers a cool, relaxed vibe perfect for hanging out. The space feels fun and enjoyable, great for grabbing drinks or catching a game.

People are saying

"The multilevel patio is huge and great for hanging out."

"The beer selection here is huge and the lineup is solid."

"The indoor and outdoor bar spaces here are perfect for gatherings."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging; consider arriving early or using rideshare services.

2

Trivia night happens every Wednesday at 7pm with no entry fee.

3

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted drinks and appetizers.

10
Malinche Audiobar image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant blends Japanese fusion with authentic Mexican atmosphere and vinyl DJ spinning Spanish rock. Intimate space features special sound system and clever soundproofing, creating a warm, nostalgic vibe. Unique mezcal selection and inventive dishes like Tempura de Hoja Santa and chilmole octopus define the experience.

A Mexican X Japanese listening bar with a cozy atmosphere and vinyl soundtrack creates a unique vibe. The space feels intimate with dim lighting and cultural handcrafted decor.

A visionary concept shapes the space, creating a cool and cozy vibe. The setting feels both beautiful and inviting.

People are saying

"The food here is incredible, with unique flavors."

"The Tempura de Hoja Santa at this bar is magical and delicious."

"The vibe here is cool, authentic, and reminiscent of Mexican audio bars."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3-6pm with solid drink options.

2

Reservations are recommended due to the small and cozy space.

3

You can order tacos from the taco truck outside to enjoy inside.

11
Kumoya - Denver image 1
Japanese restaurant

Japanese restaurant combines elegant decor with fun jazz music and a vibrant cocktail lounge in the back. Atmosphere feels warm and inviting, with attentive staff and a lively bar area. Unique sushi offerings and rare sake selections set it apart from typical spots.

Sitting at the bar offers a chance to watch chefs craft sushi with clever flavor combinations. Bartenders are friendly and engaging, creating a great vibe for upscale cocktails with attentive service.

A cool bar sits in the back, serving delightful drinks crafted by Thao and Vickers. The inside has a very cool vibe throughout.

People are saying

"The Japanese food omakase here is impressive."

"The bar has a nice vibe and the bartenders are really nice."

"The food here is incredible and so tasty."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 5-7 PM, but only at the bar.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially for larger groups, with wait times up to 2 hours.

3

Kumoya adds a 20% gratuity to all bills automatically.

12
Forest Room 5 image 1

Lounge blends cozy lodge-like interior with an eclectic outdoor patio featuring a stream and fire pits. Atmosphere feels intimate and nature-inspired, inviting guests to relax by the fireplace or under trees. Unique touches include a book vending machine and a cabin aesthetic that sets it apart from typical bars.

Eclectic nature-inspired design blends indoor and outdoor spaces, creating a unique and inviting bar atmosphere. The outdoor patio stands out as a rare and comfortable spot for drinks.

Vibe feels trippy and nostalgic, like a room from a quirky TV show with a twist. The patio adds a chill spot to hang out, surrounded by cool decor that keeps things trendy.

People are saying

"The outdoor seating feels like you're in the woods by a fire."

"The vibe here is effortlessly cool and super fun."

"This bar's atmosphere is super dope and eclectic."

Good to know

1

The kitchen closes at 10:40 PM, even if they claim to be open until 2 AM.

2

Happy hour offers great deals on drinks and runs from 4-7 PM on weekdays.

3

Outdoor and indoor seating options are available for guests.

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Highland, Denver

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