RiNo has a new destination built for contrast. Rose & Thorn, the dual-concept bar and restaurant inside The Penrose, offers two distinct experiences that play off each other. One in the clouds, the other below the surface.
Rose, the rooftop space, leans into warmth and ease. By day, it’s bright and unhurried with low-slung lounge chairs and panoramic views. As the sun goes down, the mood sharpens. Cocktails grow bolder. Conversation pulls in closer. The shift is subtle but intentional.
“At Rose & Thorn, we were inspired by the duality of indulgence, the light and the shadow, the open air and the underground pull,” said managing partner Ciaran O’Brien. “We wanted to craft a seamless shift between two extremes: rooftop revelry under the sun and moody, intimate escape below. It’s not just two venues, it’s two sides of the same desire,” O’Brien said.
Each space was built to reflect that contrast. “Rose, our rooftop, channels a natural, earthy vibe with warm textures and organic materials complemented by intentional pops of color that keep the space vibrant and playful,” O’Brien said. “It reflects the elevated yet healthful spirit of The Penrose. Thorn, below, is all contrast, darker, moodier, more immersive. Rich materials, shadowed corners and a seductive palette invite a different kind of escape. Together, they offer two distinct yet connected expressions of indulgence.”
The rooftop menu follows that same rhythm. It opens light and fresh then leans into indulgence as the day fades into night. “We wanted the menu to match the shift in energy throughout the day,” O’Brien said. “During sunny afternoons, the focus is on light, fresh dishes. Things that feel crisp, cool and easy to share, like citrusy hummus or grilled skewers. As day turns to night, the menu leans into bolder flavors and richer textures, with dishes that feel a bit more indulgent and comforting. It’s about creating a natural flow, bright and refreshing when the sun is out and deeper, more flavorful when the evening sets in.”
While Thorn opens later this summer, the cocktail lineup at both venues has already been fully imagined. “Guests can expect two distinct cocktail experiences that reflect the energy of each space,” said bar manager Alan Garcia. “At Rose, drinks are bright, floral and citrus-forward and are designed to be enjoyed poolside with fresh ingredients and playful presentations. It’s laid-back luxury in a glass. Thorn is edgy and funky. It’s not your typical underground cocktail lounge, it has energy, neons and unique art. Each menu stands on its own but together they tell a story of contrast, indulgence and intentional design,” Garcia continued.
O’Brien added, “Rose delivers an elevated rooftop experience unlike any other in Denver. With its open-air grill, vibrant poolside atmosphere and carefully curated cocktails and fare, it combines effortless luxury with a warm, social vibe. Guests can relax and connect while taking in sweeping views of Denver and stunning sunsets, a unique sense of place that truly sets it apart from the typical rooftop scene.”
Together, Rose & Thorn offers a seamless shift between two distinct moods without ever leaving the building.
Rose & Thorn is located at 1740 36th St., Denver. Its hours are Monday – Wednesday 3 – 10 p.m., Thursday – Friday 12 p.m. – 12 a.m., Saturday – Sunday 10 a.m. – 12 a.m.
