In the age of nonstop digital content, it’s hard to stand out on social media. Some do so, though — and beautifully.
Denver transplant Elliott Clark is just that type of person. A digital drinks entrepreneur, Clark curates cocktail culture on his wildly successful Instagram, @ApartmentBartender. He collaborates with brands like Bombay Sapphire and Jack Daniels, lends his cocktail expertise to GQ, and co-created the Earn Your Booze fitness movement.
Clark’s relocation to Denver conveniently coincided with the city’s latest wave of bar developments. Whether you’re headed to Colorado to ski, snowboard, or check out its new wave of killer bars and restaurants, we can think of no better guide to the capital city than this drinkstagrammer extraordinaire. Here, we explore Denver through Clark’s eyes (and Instagram filters).
Drinking
Death & Co
“The Highwayman cocktail (bourbon, Islay Scotch, Jamaican rum, Ristretto) hits the spot every time. If you’re hungry, go for the burger (local beef or smoked mushroom, taleggio, kewpie, greens) or the gourmet pork belly mac and cheese with egg yolk, pecorino, and arugula.” Location.
Lady Jane
“This is one of my favorite spots to hang out. Miss Maggie (Monkey Shoulder blended Scotch, Bonal, St. George Spiced Liqueur, lemon, honey) is a great drink. I also recommend checking out the sister spot, Hudson Hill, for coffee in the morning.” Location.
Star Bar
“Star Bar is that place where you can go and just be yourself. They serve amazing cocktails, but I go for the bourbon, company, and late-night karaoke. I usually order a pour of Weller 12.” Location.
Citizen Rail
“This spot is inside the Kimpton Hotel Born; it gives you a good feel of Downtown. They change up the menu pretty often, but they always seem to have a clarified milk punch cocktail on the menu that’ll blow your doors off.” Location.
Eating
Mercantile Dining and Provision
“Mercantile is centrally located in Union Station, the place where people come and go. This is just a really solid spot overall; they always make you feel welcome, and the cocktails and food are amazing. A Burst of Light (Four Roses Small Batch, Chareau, Amaro Nardini, apricot, Moroccan bitters) is my favorite drink on the menu.” Location.
Tavernetta
“Tavernetta is probably my favorite restaurant in Denver. The service is amazing, and the chef’s crudo selection and Maine lobster tagliatelle are both next level.” Location.
Cart-Driver
“Come here for pizza and late-night Negronis.” Location.
Sleeping
Kimpton Hotel Born
“The atmosphere at this Downtown hotel is amazing. All of the restaurants and bars (especially the ones I’ve mentioned) have really solid drink programs, and you’re always going to get an elevated dining experience.” Location.
The Source Hotel
“I love hanging out at this hotel because it’s connected to several of the best restaurants in town: Safta, Smok, and more. The rooftop is dope too — it overlooks the entire city.” Location.
Extracurriculars
RiNo and the Highlands
RiNo and the Highlands are my two favorite areas to hang out. There are a ton of great spots all within walking distance of each other, and it’s never a bad vibe in either neighborhood.
RiNo has great spots like The Ramble Hotel (where Death & Co is located), Denver Central Market, and some of my other favorite spots I’ve mentioned. The Highlands not only has great food, drink, and vibes, but also the best views of downtown Denver.” Locations (RiNo, Highlands).
