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Best of Metromix Denver 2010Bar

We have narrowed down the five bars all in the running to be crowned the best in Denver. This is a tough decision since there are so many good ones, but we were looking for the watering holes which surpass our expectations and truly raise the bar (no pun intended). One is a dive bar in Boulder and another is an upscale bar in the Highlands. All very different from each other, yet one will win be named the best by vote of the public.

The Thin Man

2015 E. 17th Ave.

Denver, CO 80206

Tired of LoDo and its petty pretensions? Scared to venture too close to Colfax? Thin Man is for you. This splendid neighborhood bar attracts a loyal cast of regulars, some of whom call it “Denver’s best-kept secret.” They offer an array of martinis (but hey, who doesn’t?), quality beers on tap (the proper way to drink a beer), and some truly interesting snack food (I mean, name a bar that serves hummus…). The atmosphere is laidback, the bartenders have true bottle chops and the customers are there to have a good time. Cheers!

Nominees

The Sundown Saloon

1136 Pearl St.

Boulder, CO 80302

Neighborhood: Pearl Street / Downtown

This is the dive bar in town—and college students and Boulderites are proud of it. Bourbon + Billiards + Tattoos = One hell of a time. Locals love to refer to it as, “the Downer,” or, “the Sundowner,” with a chuckle since (if you’ve been there) we all have our crazy stories. Located below the Pearl Street mall, you go down the flight of stairs and from there you can immediately order your $1 Kamikaze shot (Thu.-Sat.) or order yourself a pitcher of PBR for $6. There is nothing else to say about “the Downer” but, “Duuuuuude, best dive in town.”

Argyll Gastro-Pub

2700 E. 3rd Ave.

Denver, CO 80206

GastroPub doesn't seem like an appetizing word, does it? If you look up the definition, it will completely make sense. A GastroPub is a British term for a pub that actually serves quality food...not just cruddy chips and salsa to go with your beer. They prove this to be true at Argyll's where they serve beef rib onion soup gratin, bass ale fish and chips, lamb and beef hamburgers and more. Check them out daily or for happy hour!

The Walrus

1911 11th St.

Boulder, CO 80302

Neighborhood: Pearl Street / Downtown

After slowly killing your liver at the Walrus, you might be up for doing some midnight gardening after you pass out on your walk home. Although the lardy, social animal of the Atlantic doesn’t eat peanuts, you will when you enter the Walrus—you’ll lose all your etiquettes your grandma taught you as you dive in the barrel for a scoop of nuts. You’ll even go the extra mile by throwing your shells on the floor. This grogmill will allow you to see double with virtually no cost while listening to Clarence Carter’s “Strokin.”

Forest Room 5

2532 15th St.

Denver, CO 80211

Neighborhood: Highlands

One of the most original bars around and definitely worth checking out. Located in the Lower Highlands, this bar opens late afternoon and offers apps, entrees and drinks. Is someone calling for a work happy hour? If so, this is the place. The décor is so unique with its rustic log look. The center of the bar is a long table similar to that of a picnic table—which makes it a great place to meet new faces. Just turn to the person next to you and strike up a conversation about what they’re screening on the walls. Right behind the bar they have wildlife, scenic footage and other serene views to daze off at. It’s so relaxing to sit and feel like it's your home away from home. Forest Room 5 even has wine by the glass options, beer and other fabulous drinks. But remember when you’re there, don’t forget to order the Mexican Churros to top off the evening—yum yum.

What other people are saying...

1 comment | Add Your Own

BankerBoy - January 13, 2010 at 11:17 AM

If this is the best Denver and Boulder have to offer in the way of bars, it really shows how far we are behind other big cities. Pretty lame!

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Cast your votes now for the best places in Denver for 2010

What are Denver’s best restaurants, hottest bars, and favorite places? You tell us! Which brunch made you actually want to get out of bed before noon on Sunday? Whose sushi spread redefined maki? And who’s serving up Denver’s most savory slice of pizza? Check out the list of contenders and vote for your favorite in each category. We’ll tally your votes and post the winners later this month.

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Best of Metromix Denver 2010Bar

And the winner is…

Best Bar

The Thin Man