Denver might be a long way from the ocean, but it does have a connection to the Queen Mary ocean liner.
Nearly hidden off the main lobby of Denver’s historic Oxford Hotel, the legendary Cruise Room is downtown Denver’s first bar, opened the day after Prohibition was repealed in 1933. The Cruise Room was fashioned after one of the lounges on the Queen Mary.
The bar features original Art Deco wall panels depicting “toasts” from around the world, bathed in chrome and neon lighting. The wall panels of international revelers were created by Denver artist Alley Henson. Other that several updates over the years, the bar maintains it’s original furnishings and look from 1933. One of the panels, featuring Hitler in a Nazi “toast” was removed during World War II.
The drink menu offers an array of martinis and classic cocktails. Food is available from the kitchen next door, although we think this is a place to have a pre- or post-dinner cocktail.
Ice cold martinis are served in coupe champagne glasses.
Our Denver friends Mark and Tammi introduced us to the Cruise Room.
The Cruise Room is open 7 days a week from 4:30pm. It is located at 1600 17th St. in Denver’s LoDo neighborhood.
Do you have a favorite martini bar in Denver? Do share in comments below.
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