The martini is having a renaissance, and with it, a newfound appreciation for bold cocktails and creative cuisine pairings. This piece observes the classic iconography of the drink alongside irresistible bites. We’re talking rich flavors as we recommend the ultimate dining spots to humor your martini obsession. Celebrate National Martini Day in style at these Denver bars.
Welton Room
Where: 2590 Welton St., Denver
When: Monday & Wednesday -Thursday 5 – 10 p.m., Friday 5 p.m. – 12 a.m., Saturday 11 a.m. – 12 a.m., 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.; Monkey Room, Tuesday – Friday 3 – 10 p.m.
The Lowdown: Kick off your martini tour at the Welton Room, where expertly crafted cocktails meet curated bites. The Prickly Pear Martini is a must-try or a Saffron Vesper, Bond’s drink of choice in Casino Royale. Match it with creative tastings like Sweet Potato Croquettes, olives, and Chicken Liver Toast. Check out its rotating dinner menus online for the full experience.
READ: 8 Places to Grab a Filthy, Dirty Martini in Denver
Yacht Club
Where: 3701 N Williams St., Denver
When: Wednesday – Monday 4 p.m – 2 a.m.
The Lowdown: All aboard the Yacht Club, as your next martini fix is just around the corner. The Old Bay Martini shakes things up with gin and a side of shrimp chips for an unexpected delight. Rethink your cocktail experience while indulging in dim sum-style eats. Hungry? Order The Hollywood Frank, a snack that steals the show. Denver, you will not want to miss this one.
Side Pony
Where: 4635 W Colfax Ave., Suite 100 Denver
When: Monday – Thursday 6:45 a.m. – 9 p.m., Friday 6:45 a.m. – 10 p.m., Saturday 7:30 a.m. – 10 p.m. and Sunday 7:30 a.m. – 3 p.m.
The Lowdown: Early riser or night owl, Side Pony fits the bill. Nestled in a lively part of town, it blends city buzz with sleek and modern design. Need a late-afternoon pick-me-up? Go for the U UP? Espresso Martini and pair it with the Garden Board, a refreshing spread with Mediterranean flair. Whatever the hour, this spot deserves a place on your martini lineup.
Vesper Lounge
Where: 233 E 7th Ave., Denver
When: Monday – Friday 4 p.m. – 2 a.m., Saturday – Sunday 2 p.m. – 2 a.m.
The Lowdown: If a moody and mysterious setting is your vibe, Vesper Lounge is the place to be. Tucked into intimate corridors with plush seating, it is the ideal setting for siphoning your inner Bond. Order the Vesper House Cocktail, another nod to Casino Royale, and complement it with Mediterranean flavors, like the Tzatziki Dip with fresh bread and a Chicken Pesto Pita for a satisfying meal. Secure your spot online and step into the intrigue.
La Forêt
Where: 38 S Broadway, Denver
When: Tuesday through Saturday 4 – 11 p.m.
The Lowdown: For a touch of French elegance just beyond downtown Denver, La Forêt is a must. With décor inspired by nature, this spot offers a truly transportive dining experience. Summer in Provence, a martini that captures the essence of the season, and indulge in decadent bites like Baked Brie, French Onion Soup, and Escargot au Champagne. Reserve your table online and taste the artistry of French cuisine.
Salita
Where: 701 Grant St., Denver
When: Monday – Thursday 7 a.m. – 11 p.m. (including siesta), Friday 7 a.m. – 12 a.m. (including siesta), Saturday 8 a.m. – 12 a.m. and Sunday 8 a.m. – 11 p.m.
The Lowdown: For a place that transitions seamlessly from day to night, Salita is the move. Start with coffee, return for a martini, a ritual worth keeping. Satisfy your cravings with the Colfax (Dirty) Martini or the Cap Hill Martini, each crafted to hit the spot. Pair it with the Salita Salumi Plate for a burst of flavors. Consider this your new go-to.
Where: 1312 S Broadway, Denver
When: Tuesday – Friday 4 p.m. – 1 a.m., Saturday 12 p.m. – 1 a.m. and Sunday 12 p.m. – 10 p.m.
The Lowdown: A destination that captures the spirit of the desert, Desert Social blends intention with masterfully curated cocktails. Its clean, modern aesthetic sets the stage for a refined experience. Try the Adelitas Martini, a bold cinnamon latte twist on the classic espresso martini. For food, the Ceviche delivers bright, fresh flavors that are noteworthy. Step into this oasis and relish in the moment.
Bar Max
Where: 2412 E Colfax Ave., Denver
When: Wednesday 4 – 10 p.m., Thursday 4 p.m. – 11 p.m., Friday – Saturday 4 p.m. – 12 a.m.
The Lowdown: A hidden gem with a bold presence, Bar Max offers European flair to the Denver scene. Unwind with a Cucumber Caper Martini, a cocktail that is as refined as it is refreshing. Pair it with the Fancy Grilled Cheese with Prosciutto, which is a simple yet unforgettable combo. See you down the road, Denver.
The Rouge Wine Bar
Where: 7939 E Arapahoe Rd., #190, Greenwood Village
When: Monday – Thursday 2 p.m. – 9 p.m.., Friday 2 p.m. – 10 p.m. and Saturday 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.
The Lowdown: Just outside Denver, The Rouge Wine Bar is the spot for a vibrant night out, especially its famed drag brunch. Between the lively atmosphere and stunning décor, enjoy an Espresso Martini and indulge in Beef Bone Marrow. For a well-rounded cuisine, do not skip the French Onion Soup and the Blood Orange Glazed Salmon. Expect nothing less than an unforgettable experience. Until next time, Denver.
