Prohibited Treasures | In the Cups

Speakeasy bars were born in the 1880s and became popular during prohibition. The name emerged as a reference to the tone of voice in which patrons were encouraged to speak while frequenting the establishments. The American government banned the production, distribution, and sale of alcohol, which led to the invention of secret spaces that were often found in cellars, hotels, and even basements. Speakeasy bars have been making a comeback since the early 2000s, as much for their illicit feel as for the vintage cocktails they create. Follow us through the dark alleyways and corridors of Denver to find your way to some of the best vintage bars in the city.

Run for the Roses

1801 Blake Street #10

Self-described as an “underground cocktail-lair,” Run for the Roses promises one of the biggest adventures of all the local speakeasies. Cellphone maps take you to a large market-style building that looks vacant and locked late at night. If you can spot the little “Run for the Roses” sign in the alley, you just might find yourself connecting the dots to get to a well-hidden, vintage-style bar.

In the same way, you might imagine a prohibition-style bar with a gentle, hushed tone, Run for the Roses adopts a somewhat quiet and contained experience that’s accommodated with elevated food and both vintage and specialty cocktails with names like “Parliament” to celebrate Blake Street’s origins as a temporary home for government meetings.

Parliament: Ingredients include wild turkey 101 Rye, Maison Rouge Vsop Cognac, Punt e Mes, Pedro Ximenez Sherry, and Little Owl Coffee

Blunderbuss: A beautiful mixture of Divino Maguey Espadin Mezcal, Averna, Overproof, Jamaican Rum, Sweet Vermouth, and Pineapple Orange Bitters

Union Lodge No. 1

1543 Champa Street

Unlike Run for the Roses, the Union Lodge No. 1 is fairly straightforward to find. Once patrons step inside, however, they find an environment with some of the same aesthetics and culture. The leather couches and worn-looking walls only add to the appeal of the bar, appearing similar to a place you might frequent underground in a city like New York.

Red, White & Blue Blazer: Ingredients include 15-proof Demerara Rum, 100-proof Bourbon, Applejack Brandy, Cinnamon, and House Bitters. Union Lodge’s skilled bartenders create a spectacle while making this drink, lighting flames that shine blue before garnishing and slinging the drink to its patron.

The Groovy Bar, Post Chicken & Beer

1575 Boulder Street

Williams and Graham is an extremely popular speakeasy style bar in the city, but it tends to come with a long wait list. While waiting for that coveted invitation to ping in your phone, you might wander down the street to The Groovey Bar – a 70s-style speakeasy that’s located in the basement of a well-known restaurant. A few short steps down the stairs will take patrons to a mini arcade with a photo booth, and, ultimately, the bar with funky chairs and antique decorations.

Grasshopper: Made with Creme de menthe, creme de cacao, heavy cream, and nutmeg, this drink is the perfect classic beverage for those with a sweet tooth.