When asking yourself about something to do near me in Denver with a group of friends or family, consider
Bang Up To The Elephant
Why Bang Up To The Elephant is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Bang Up To The Elephant! is a standout vegan cocktail bar and eatery located on bustling Pearl Street in Denver, Colorado. It offers a dynamic and eclectic atmosphere that blends vibrant decor and warm natural light with a trendy, inclusive vibe reminiscent of Miami’s stylish flair and New York City’s West Village energy. This establishment excels at redefining plant-based dining, providing a diverse menu that showcases culinary creativity through dishes such as the creamy Callaloo and flavorful coconut curry, alongside inventive sandwiches like the Seitan Cubano and Jackfruit Roti. The focus on fresh, sustainable ingredients appeals to food enthusiasts and families alike, making it a perfect venue for casual brunches, lively dinners, or relaxed gatherings with friends. The extensive cocktail list, including unique vegan offerings and an impressive selection of non-alcoholic beverages, ensures that every guest finds something to delight their palate. Beyond food and drinks, Bang Up To The Elephant! prides itself on being a welcoming, inclusive community space that supports local artists and hosts events, deepening its connection with Denver’s vibrant cultural scene. Overall, it is a trendy yet warm destination ideal for anyone seeking innovative vegan cuisine in a fun, spirited setting.
Here's what people think of Bang Up To The Elephant
As of recent, Bang Up To The Elephant holds a 4.3-star rating based on 1281 reviews.
User reviews of Bang Up To The Elephant! reveal a generally positive reception, reflected in its strong 4.3-star rating from over 1280 reviews. Patrons frequently praise the restaurant’s inventive and diverse plant-based menu, highlighting dishes like the Callaloo, coconut curry, and Jackfruit Roti for their robust flavors and satisfying quality. Many reviewers appreciate the fun and eclectic ambiance, the friendly and inclusive staff, and the creative cocktail offerings, especially the thoughtfully crafted non-alcoholic options. The welcoming atmosphere shaped by the unique decor and lively energy is commonly noted as a reason for repeat visits and group gatherings. On the other hand, some reviews point out aspects needing improvement, such as occasional inconsistencies in food preparation and a perceived need for heightened attention to detail in service speed or order accuracy. A few guests have mentioned that the experience can feel like a work-in-progress, suggesting potential for culinary refinement to fully fulfill the establishment’s promising concept. In conclusion, the overall sentiment praises the vibrant atmosphere and innovative vegan cuisine while encouraging continued evolution to elevate quality and consistency. This combination makes Bang Up To The Elephant! a favored and exciting destination for plant-based dining in Denver.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Amanda Smith
Incredible meal. Even better ambiance. We got the curry waffle fries which were dope, the buss up shut and Cubano. Everything was stand out. A few cocktails made for the perfect evening. It’s 10/10 worth the visit just for the health alone.
Justin Norman
One of the highlights of my visit to several vegan restaurants in and around Denver. It’s a large, spacious, beautiful restaurant with a unique heating/cooling system that was fun to learn about. The tofu salad I had was elevated by the fantastic vegan ranch dressing. The Indian inspired dish was also very good, with the light and flaky bread being a highlight. Got to meet the owner, who was super friendly. Hope to visit again the next time I’m in town!
Melanie Allen
Had a drink and meal at the bar. Wish I could give more than 5 stars for atmosphere. Everything on the menu was creative and sounded amazing. My meal, the buss up shut, was so flavorful and filling. Found this place on Happy Cow and so glad. 15 minute easy walk from 11th Avenue hostel.
Mike Jones
Found this little gem during restaurant week and have been back twice! Delicious vegan food with a chill vibe. Island flavors and friendly service have made this one of our new faves. Vanessa is always great at the bar!
Sydney Williams
This is such a great food spot. Great vibes with the interior design, tons of beautiful plants, and open doors/airflow when the weather is nice. Situated on a cute and quiet side street as well. The service is great, very friendly employees. LOVE the plant based menu. They just unveiled a new brunch plan/ menu and the options are delicious and unique with thoughtful flavor combinations. Cant wait to go back to try more of the menu, and to recommend to people! Just delicious.
How to reach Bang Up To The Elephant
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Why Bang Up To The Elephant may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Bang Up To The Elephant with your friends?
Bang Up To The Elephant stands out as an exceptional gathering spot for friends and family because it offers more than just food and drinks—it delivers a vibrant, eclectic atmosphere that instantly sets the tone for a memorable meetup. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving a laid-back evening with your crew, this place invites you to immerse yourself in its quirky, colorful decor and playful vibe. Its eclectic menu features a variety of globally inspired, mostly vegan-friendly dishes that satisfy diverse palates and dietary preferences, making it easy for everyone in the group to find something they love. The vibrant bar serves creative cocktails and mixed drinks that add an element of fun and sophistication to your night out. Friendly and efficient service ensures your group’s needs are well taken care of, so you can focus on enjoying the moment. Furthermore, multiple reviews praise the establishment’s suitability for large groups, thanks to the spacious seating with long tables that accommodate gatherings comfortably. All these elements combined make Bang Up To The Elephant a perfect place to rally with friends for a spirited, flavorful, and relaxed social experience.
What kinds of food and drinks can your group enjoy at Bang Up To The Elephant?
When it comes to dining, Bang Up To The Elephant covers an impressive range of flavors and textures that delight both adventurous and comfort food seekers. Its menu is an eclectic fusion with a Caribbean influence, featuring dishes like a standout jerk chicken that is smoky, charred, and fragrant, paired with sides like grilled pineapple and coconut rice with black-eyed peas. Vegan and vegetarian options are plentiful, with generous portions—such as the adventurous seitan Cubano sandwich and loaded curry fries—that cater to plant-based diets while pleasing meat-eaters too. The food is known for being delicious while presenting vibrant, exotic tastes that differ from the typical Denver dining scene. On the drinks side, the mixology is creative, offering an amazing variety of cocktails with good balance and presentation. Though some reviews note occasional misses like a less coconut-flavored Piña Colada, the bartenders are attentive and willing to craft or adjust drinks to meet your preferences, ensuring everyone stays satisfied. The combination of flavorful, diverse food and inspired cocktails makes it a lively spot to taste, share, and enjoy as a group.
How does the atmosphere at Bang Up To The Elephant enhance group meetups?
The atmosphere is arguably one of the strongest reasons to pick Bang Up To The Elephant for group meetups, as it invites guests into a quirky and immersive setting that feels more like a celebration than a quiet meal. The decor is funky and colorful, designed to create an amusing and relaxed environment that encourages lingering and conversation. The music adds to the vibe—often featuring live bands or energetic playlists like Fela Kuti—that fills the room with a sense of fun and cultural rhythm, keeping the energy high and your group engaged. Visitors also appreciate the incorporation of performance art and occasional live entertainment, which transform a simple gathering into a festive occasion. The space itself is arranged to accommodate groups of all sizes, with long communal tables perfect for birthdays, casual hangouts, or catch-ups with old friends, ensuring nobody feels left out. This kind of vibrant, inclusive environment encourages socializing and makes every meetup feel special and dynamic.
What kinds of activities and experiences are available for groups besides dining?
Bang Up To The Elephant offers more than just dining and drinking—it creates an experience enriched with activities that make your visit with friends exciting and unique. Aside from the carefully curated menu and drinks, the venue sometimes hosts live music and performance art, which provide a communal cultural experience that every group can enjoy together. The establishment also promotes a social vibe through occasional special events like pay-what-you-wish yoga sessions, a noteworthy aspect that highlights its commitment to creating a community hub rather than simply a restaurant. This mix of food, drink, entertainment, and communal activities means groups can plan everything from casual dinners to lively celebrations with multiple layers of engagement. Whether your group is looking for an eclectic night out involving great dishes, catchy live tunes, or interactive entertainment, Bang Up To The Elephant’s diverse offering means you’re not just eating out—you’re experiencing a cultural event in the heart of Denver.
Why is Bang Up To The Elephant considered perfect for large groups and special occasions?
For those considering where to host a large group or special occasion, Bang Up To The Elephant offers a spacious and versatile setting designed to accommodate sizable parties with ease. Reviews often highlight the availability of long tables that fit large gatherings comfortably, which is ideal for family reunions, birthday parties, or casual meetups with a big friend circle. The welcoming service staff is accustomed to managing groups, ensuring orders flow smoothly, and that everyone enjoys their meals and drinks without feeling rushed. The vibrant yet laid-back ambiance allows for lively conversations and group interaction without the noise overpowering the experience. Additionally, the unique mix of global dishes, especially with many vegan-friendly options, ensures that dietary restrictions and preferences won’t be a problem when feeding a crowd. The colorful and quirky environment itself adds a celebratory flair to any event, allowing your group to capture memorable moments in an atmosphere that's anything but ordinary. Overall, this restaurant’s combination of spaciousness, personality, and thoughtful service makes it a go-to destination for fun, large-scale meetups.
What makes the staff and service experience stand out at Bang Up To The Elephant?
Beyond the food and atmosphere, guests consistently praise the staff and service as key contributors to a great experience at Bang Up To The Elephant. Descriptions commonly use words like “friendly,” “fast,” and “attentive,” reflecting a team that is both welcoming and efficient. The bartenders go the extra mile, often adjusting drinks based on feedback with genuine care to ensure everyone is happy with their order. This kind of personalized attention is highly appreciated in group settings, where ensuring all individuals’ needs are met can be complex. Staff members also display good knowledge of the menu and offerings, able to recommend dishes or cocktails that best fit guests’ tastes or dietary restrictions, further enriching the visit. The seamless service helps keep the flow smooth and the mood upbeat, allowing guests to focus on their social experience rather than logistical hiccups. This combination of professionalism and warmth truly sets Bang Up To The Elephant apart as a group-friendly venue where guests feel well cared for from start to finish.
How accessible and convenient is Bang Up To The Elephant for hosting meetups?
Located in a vibrant area of Denver, Bang Up To The Elephant is easily accessible for locals and visitors alike. Its location on Pearl Street places it within a lively neighborhood, with easy transportation options and nearby parking facilities that simplify arrivals and departures for groups. The restaurant’s extended operating hours—open from early morning until late at night—mean your group can plan meetups at nearly any time, from brunch get-togethers to late-night celebrations. This flexibility is rare and advantageous when scheduling with busy friends or family who have varied availability. The casual yet lively setting encourages spontaneous visits as well as planned events, making it a reliable and convenient choice regardless of your group’s preferences. Accessibility combined with the accommodating environment ensures that hosting an event here is hassle-free and enjoyable for all involved.
What do visitors say about the overall experience at Bang Up To The Elephant?
Visitors frequently emphasize Bang Up To The Elephant’s unique blend of fun atmosphere, tasty and diverse food, and excellent service as the highlights of their visits. Many appreciate the vibrant and quirky decor that offers a backdrop for memorable social experiences, while foodies praise the flavorful, globally inspired dishes, especially the vegan options and Jamaican-influenced specialties. Despite occasional critiques about portions or certain dishes, the overall consensus is positive due to the creativity, friendliness, and welcoming vibe. Groups often remark on how well the space accommodates large parties, making it a favored spot for celebrations and casual meetups alike. The energetic music and occasional live performances add to the feeling of being somewhere unconventional and exciting. Combined, these elements create a destination that people want to return to, not just for the meals, but for the entire cultural and social experience that Bang Up To The Elephant offers.
Bang Up To The Elephant’s eclectic vibe, accommodating space, creative menu, and dynamic cultural offerings come together to make it one of Denver’s top spots for hosting gatherings with friends or family. It’s a place where food, music, art, and community fuse to create a vibrant, inclusive atmosphere that energizes any group meetup. From casual hangouts to special celebrations, the restaurant consistently delivers an experience that is anything but ordinary.