Join in and raise a glass to National Cocktail Day on March 24 with these exquisite libations in Denver. From inventive twists on classics to artisanal creations using local ingredients, the curated selection below highlights the best of Denver’s cocktail culture.
Restaurant Olivia
Restaurant Olivia‘s mixologists pride themselves on bringing unexpected ingredients from the kitchen into their bar program. The Negroni Rosato ($16) is their latest savory special, which starts with the bold flavors of Parmigiano Reggiano and black pepper bitters, mirroring the essential elements of the classic Italian pasta dish, cacio e pepe. The drink blends the savory depth of cheese and the spicy kick of pepper with the botanical notes of Highclere Gin. The Ramazzotti Rose adds a floral and slightly bitter layer, complementing the Parmigiano’s sharpness, while preserved strawberries infuse a sweet balance.
Wonderyard Garden + Table
Look no further than Wonderyard Garden + Table for the most creative cocktails in Denver! With a drink menu stacked to the brim with fresh spins on classic cocktails, Wonderyard takes pride in its carefully curated beverage program. One of the most noteworthy cocktails at Wonderyard is the One of a Kind ($16), which transports guests on a tropical getaway in the form of rum, vanilla, passionfruit and lime. Though it thoroughly tantalizes tastebuds with its fresh blend of flavors, the One of a Kind also allows guests to give back to the local community, as a percentage of all proceeds goes back to a quarterly-rotating charity in the Denver metro. And for guests who are joined at the hip, Wonderyard boasts a selection of large-format cocktails perfect for coworkers, girl groups and newfound friends. The Queen of Hearts ($80) expertly combines grapefruit and rose-infused Milagro tequila, beet shrub, chinola passionfruit, lychee, lemon and sparkling wine in a purse-shaped, communal glass. Serving up to four guests, the Queen of Hearts entices groups of friends to stay a while and sip away.
My Neighbor Felix
Known for its margarita offerings, My Neighbor Felix is no stranger to wowing guests with its cocktails. As spring nears, guests are invited to enjoy fresh spins on the classic Mexican refreshment.The hibiscus margarita ($13), starring hibiscus-infused tequila, fresh lime and pineapple, is as refreshing as it is unique. Additionally, the elderflower margarita ($13) combines Herradura tequila, elderflower, coconut and lime to entrance guests with floral notes and a milky hue.
Toro and Tamayo by Chef Richard Sandoval
For a limited time, Toro and Tamayo by Chef Richard Sandoval have crafted some delectable beverages for their campaign “Viva Abejas,” meaning “Save The Bees.” For a fruity take on the classic margarita, try the Margarita Royale ($14), made with tequila blanco, honey, passion fruit cordial, lime, bee pollen and edible flower. They will also mix up a Golden Mezcal Old Fashioned ($15), a bittersweet combination of mezcal, Nixta, honey, Aztec chocolate bitters, orange bitters and chocolate. The restaurants will also serve the Honey Hibiscus Mocktail ($12), made with honey, hibiscus, ginger, cucumber, soda and topped with an edible flower.
BurnDown
Explore the unique beverage offerings across all three floors of BurnDown. Come in this National Cocktail Day to indulge in the vibrant and flavorful Silk Suit ($13). This crowd-favorite draft cocktail is crafted with a smooth rye vodka, balanced by Suze’s hint of bitterness and enhanced by the zesty notes of lemon and tarragon and finished with some blackberry sweetness.
Wynkoop Brewing Co.
Denver’s first brewpub knows a thing or two about beer and cocktails. Paying homage to the classic cocktail and Wynkoop’s roots, the Hopped Up Old Fashioned offers the same great base as a typical Old Fashioned — Four Roses Bourbon, orange and cherry — with a special house-hopped bitters. It’s the perfect drink for beer lovers and cocktail connoisseurs alike.
The Cherry Cricket
For those craving a refreshing cocktail to pair with one of Cherry Cricket’s legendary burgers, look no further than the Cool As A Cucumber. Featuring Hendrick’s gin, fresh lime, basil, cucumber and simple syrup, this crisp cocktail is sure to keep you cool while relaxing at the Cherry Creek patio, or post-Rockies game at the Ballpark location.
