Table games

What should you get with bottle service?

Justin Jimenez

Posted January 21, 2009

Metromix

Bottle service is something this city is still trying to wrap its head around. Some love it, some hate it. Regardless of your thoughts, as more and more nightclubs hop on the wagon, and for the prices that are out there, it should always be done properly. And no, you are not just paying for a table. Here is what to look for if you decide to shell out the dough. It can be great... if it's done right.

Bad form

As we started to do some research on how Denver was approaching the game we decided to look into a LoDo club advertising the “City’s Best Bottle Service.” As we walked in, a gal with a clipboard and an earpiece, introducing herself loudly as a “VIP host,” quickly ushered us off. While VIP host it is a term that is thrown around in places like New York and Vegas the way fifth graders use the word “love,” it is simply a reservation specialist (so don't be too impressed by the title).

Regardless, it was by far some of the worst service we have ever witnessed, and we have heard the same of a few other establishments around town pawning off exponentially marked-up bottles of Kettle One. Which, to our little booze-soaked minds, completely defeats the purpose of the luxury. The club itself was great, but it completely missed the point.

European bottle service, as it is only called by Americans, should be centered on the experience. You are not paying $100-$400 for the vodka; you are paying to be wooed, to have your ass kissed and to never have to ask for a drink, or even pour one for that matter.

That said, Denver is still trying how to figure this thing out, and the only way for clubs to get their manners in check is for the consumer to demand it.

So, what makes for good bottle service, and what should I expect?

First off, regardless of how busy you think the place is, call ahead and make reservations. The host will likely be able to get you a better table than if you just walked in off the street, and in the table game, real estate is everything. But how much should you pay? The venue, the day of the week, and the number in your party are all tangibles to take into consideration.

Bottle service can be like a used a car: the price all depends on who is pitching it. Some places will invoke a two-bottle minimum if the night is in high demand; others might give you a 2-for-1 if it is a weeknight, so make sure to do a little haggling. A bottle in Denver is still pretty reasonable though, coming in at around $150. For those of you cursing at the idea of a $30 liter of spirits being reasonably priced at $150, take into account that in major markets like Miami and NYC a single bottle of hooch costs around $500.

Fresh garnishes, a stack of clean glasses and ice should be there upon arrival—all constantly being refilled. After deciding on your mixers (note: Red Bull is usually extra) your server should be keeping those glasses topped off all night. In fact, she should usually be within eyeshot, ready to jump as soon as the ice hits the bottom of the glass.

Some call it snobby and high maintenance, others call it value. Just as if you were paying $200 for a top-notch meal, you would expect the restaurant and your waiter to deliver service to match the food.

Why should I bother?

So let’s just say for the sake of argument all these things are in place, why on earth would you want to spend that much, just to “look cool?”

Indeed it serves the superficial purpose of setting yourself apart socially, but more practically it gives you a place to sit; nightclubs are not known for their large supply of rump rests. Also, believe it or not, it can actually be much cheaper with the comfortable accoutrements added. Anytime you buy a bottle the cover should be waived for your entire party. You figure on a big night, cover will be around 15 bucks a pop, and with drinks at $10—you’re down $25 apiece as soon as you walk in the door. With a party of five and bottle service you already have drinks and a comfy seat. Remember though, the tip is usually is not included, so make sure you budget for that.

Don’t snub your nose at the pretentious service either. We have spoken with several people who “hate nightclubs,” and after a solid, well-served night of bottle service exclaim, “that was one of the best times I have ever had.” Bottle service eliminates all the bumping, drink spilling, errant hand placement, long cover lines and otherwise negative elements of the club scene.

And just a world of advice, if you are dividing up the bill it’s best to collect beforehand; people tend to disappear towards the end of the night, and you don’t want to be stuck with the tab.

Where should I start?

We thought you would never ask. Metromix has, through arduos trial and error, composed the best bottle service bets and deals in town for your upscale imbibing pleasure. Here is the best bottle service venues in Denver. Enjoy!