It is that time of year when flash tattoos and post-ink celebrations are in full swing. Of course, we have to recommend our favorite Denver hubs for food and drinks post-tattoo sesh. From moody cocktail lounges to classic pizza joints, there is something for every vibe. Save this list for later and hit a few in one night. Here we go, Denver.
The Brutal Poodle
Where: 1967 S Broadway, Denver
When: Monday 4 p.m. – 12 a.m., Tuesday 11 a.m. – 2 a.m., Wednesday – Thursday 11 a.m. – 12 a.m., Friday – Saturday 11 – 2 a.m. and Sunday 11 – 12 a.m.
The Lowdown: No tattoo sesh is complete without a visit to The Brutal Poodle. Known for its cozy and alternative style, the Poodle is a reliable hub for great food and drinks. To start, order the Cannibal Corpse Reviver for a bold and moody beverage or try the Mastodon Julio Margarita for a classic option. For dinner, try the Candied Pork Belly Wedge to share followed by The Southbound Defilibrator Signature Brutal Mac, loaded with all the fixings.
Black Sky Brewery
Where: 490 Santa Fe Dr., Denver
When: Monday – Thursday 11 a.m. – 10 p.m., Friday – Saturday 11 – 2 a.m. and Sunday 12 p.m. – 9 p.m.
The Lowdown: A great local dive with alternative flair and is sure to fit the vibe post-tattoo sesh this summer. To drink, you must try the Hot Beef Injection, which is an interesting duo of Irish whisky chased by a side of hot au jus. Trust the process because it is incredible. For food, you can keep it simple by ordering pizza slices a la carte, or try the Birria Street Tacos for a fulfilling meal. See you in a flash Black Sky Brewery, Denver.
The Occidental
Where: 1950 W 32nd Ave., Denver
When: Monday – Friday 4 p.m. – 1 a.m., Saturday – Sunday 2 p.m. – 1 a.m.
The Lowdown: A popular haunt that delivers every time, The Occidental is perfect for late-afternoon bites and drinks, especially post-tattoo sesh. Their N/A options delivered and we recommend the Midnight Sun or I Heard It On A Podcast for an energizing boost. For food, try the Mac & Cheese with bacon jam or the All Day Breakfast Sandwich. Either way, you are sure to fuel up right after your tattoo celebration.
Monkey Barrel
Where: 4401 Tejon St., Denver
When: Sunday – Wednesday 11 a.m. – 11 p.m., Thursday – Saturday 11 – 1 a.m.
The Lowdown: Another great hub with the right vibes, Monkey Barrel offers a vibrant menu packed with food and drink options. Go sparkling with the 99 Problems But a Spritz Ain’t One, or choose the fruity forward Wheezin’ The Juice. For food, its burgers deliver big flavor and we recommend trying the BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger or the Philly Cheesesteak Dip for something hearty and dripping with taste.
Tony P’s Bar and Pizzeria
Where: 3000 Zuni St., Denver
When: Tuesday – Sunday 7 a.m. – 11 p.m., Monday closed
The Lowdown: Located in busy LoHi, Tony P’s Bar and Pizzeria is a go-to for a post-tattoo meal. Open from early to late, it is easy to make this your next stop. Known for Italian-crafted cocktails, we recommend the Limoncello Martini, finished with a sweet crust, or the tangy Amaretto Sour. Its Neapolitan-style pizza is best enjoyed fresh and in a flash; try the Napoletana Artisan Pepperoni, which is so good, you will be ready for another round.
Black Shirt Brewing
Where: 3719 Walnut St., Denver
When: 11 a.m. – 10 p.m. daily
The Lowdown: A lively, cozy spot for post-tattoo celebrations, Black Shirt Brewing has just what you need after flash sale day at your favorite shop. We recommend the flavorful Oven-Roasted Wings with a seasonal Beat Drop rotating salad, or go classic with the Motley Crue pizza that is loaded with protein and veggies. For drinks, try the Paradise City Old Fashioned, for big flavor, or the Bloody Barracuda, a tasty take on a classic beverage.
The Cruise Room
Where: 1600 17th St. CO, Denver
When: Sunday – Thursday 5 – 10 p.m., Friday – Saturday 5 p.m. – 12 a.m.
The Lowdown: Smartly adorned in classic Art Deco style, The Cruise Room is a must-visit post-tattoo sesh. Located inside the Oxford Hotel across from Union Station, this moody speakeasy holds Denver’s oldest liquor license post-Prohibition. The intimate seating and buzzy vibe set the tone for classic drinks and bites. For snacks, go savory with Fried Mushrooms and garlic aioli or Warm Olives and Pita. For drinks, keep it classy with a Manhattan or Daiquiri, and trust us, you will not regret it.
Until next time, Denver.