When asking yourself about something to do near me in Boulder with a group of friends or family, consider
License No. 1
Why License No. 1 is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
License No. 1 is a renowned establishment located in Boulder, Colorado, celebrated for its vibrant atmosphere and inviting setting that make it an ideal meeting place for friends. With a strong rating of 4.5 stars based on 584 reviews, it offers a welcoming environment where guests can relax and socialize. The venue combines a modern yet cozy ambiance that appeals to a diverse clientele, featuring exquisite menu options that cater to various tastes. Highlights include a carefully curated selection of craft beverages, including both local and international options, as well as a delicious array of small plates that encourage sharing and conviviality. The staff are known for their attentive and friendly service, enhancing the overall experience by making each visit comfortable and enjoyable. Whether for casual get-togethers, special celebrations, or evening hangouts, License No. 1 stands out as a place that fosters connection and great conversation in Boulder’s dynamic social scene.
Here's what people think of License No. 1
As of recent, License No. 1 holds a 4.5-star rating based on 584 reviews.
The reviews for License No. 1 overwhelmingly reflect positive experiences from patrons who appreciate both the quality of the food and the atmosphere. Many reviewers praise the diverse menu that includes well-prepared dishes and an impressive drink selection, which together create a satisfying culinary experience. Guests frequently highlight the welcoming and knowledgeable staff who contribute to a smooth and pleasant visit. The ambiance is described as both lively and cozy, making it suitable for groups of friends as well as more intimate gatherings. On the other hand, some negative reviews mention occasional issues such as wait times during peak hours or seating availability, suggesting the popular nature of the venue can sometimes challenge operational flow. A few critiques note limited parking options nearby or higher price points for certain items. Despite these occasional drawbacks, the consensus remains strongly favorable, and many customers indicate they would return or recommend the venue. In conclusion, the review feedback portrays License No. 1 as a highly regarded destination in Boulder, known for delivering quality service, enjoyable food and drinks, and a warm environment conducive to socializing and celebration.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
William Dykstra
The Comic cents comedy show is one of the best local deals. They always have great local talent and also really good headliners! The ambience and food/drink quality is excellent too!
Ziad Habchi
We came here to enjoy a night out, but were completely thrown off by how we were treated. After paying for our drinks, we chose not to leave a tip — something that, while generally appreciated, is still voluntary. Within minutes, a bouncer approached us and forced us to leave the bar without explanation or warning. Getting kicked out simply for not tipping is not only unprofessional, it’s ridiculous. If tipping is mandatory here, it should be clearly stated. Instead, we were publicly embarrassed and treated with unnecessary aggression. There are plenty of great bars in the area that know how to treat their guests. This isn’t one of them.
Ava Johns
Cool bar! One of the few places that isn't full of college kids so that's nice. Really outstanding cocktails and nice bartenders. They also have comedy and other events which is awesome.
Adam Vitti
Had an amazing time at License 1 and Comic cents for late night comedy show. This venue has an amazing old timey atmosphere with great cocktails and wonderful live music. I have been coming here for a few years now for the hidden comedy show! Definitely worth checking out. Always new lineups with great jokes.
Doctor Bo
This was a very cool experience for a friends birthday get together. They did not have any chartreuse which I was very disappointed about. But the drinks were still relatively unique with good options. The food was not amazing to be honest, calamari was a bit saltier than I’d like but was gluten free which is somewhat rare. The burger itself tasted pretty good but the gluten free bun which is tough to get right was quickly falling apart. I love the setup of the rooms and we had a great time playing pool - you do need some cash for change to make quarters - it’s 4 quarters for each pool game.
William Dykstra
The Comic cents comedy show is one of the best local deals. They always have great local talent and also really good headliners! The ambience and food/drink quality is excellent too!
Ziad Habchi
We came here to enjoy a night out, but were completely thrown off by how we were treated. After paying for our drinks, we chose not to leave a tip — something that, while generally appreciated, is still voluntary. Within minutes, a bouncer approached us and forced us to leave the bar without explanation or warning. Getting kicked out simply for not tipping is not only unprofessional, it’s ridiculous. If tipping is mandatory here, it should be clearly stated. Instead, we were publicly embarrassed and treated with unnecessary aggression. There are plenty of great bars in the area that know how to treat their guests. This isn’t one of them.
Ava Johns
Cool bar! One of the few places that isn't full of college kids so that's nice. Really outstanding cocktails and nice bartenders. They also have comedy and other events which is awesome.
Adam Vitti
Had an amazing time at License 1 and Comic cents for late night comedy show. This venue has an amazing old timey atmosphere with great cocktails and wonderful live music. I have been coming here for a few years now for the hidden comedy show! Definitely worth checking out. Always new lineups with great jokes.
Doctor Bo
This was a very cool experience for a friends birthday get together. They did not have any chartreuse which I was very disappointed about. But the drinks were still relatively unique with good options. The food was not amazing to be honest, calamari was a bit saltier than I’d like but was gluten free which is somewhat rare. The burger itself tasted pretty good but the gluten free bun which is tough to get right was quickly falling apart. I love the setup of the rooms and we had a great time playing pool - you do need some cash for change to make quarters - it’s 4 quarters for each pool game.
William Dykstra
The Comic cents comedy show is one of the best local deals. They always have great local talent and also really good headliners! The ambience and food/drink quality is excellent too!
Ziad Habchi
We came here to enjoy a night out, but were completely thrown off by how we were treated. After paying for our drinks, we chose not to leave a tip — something that, while generally appreciated, is still voluntary. Within minutes, a bouncer approached us and forced us to leave the bar without explanation or warning. Getting kicked out simply for not tipping is not only unprofessional, it’s ridiculous. If tipping is mandatory here, it should be clearly stated. Instead, we were publicly embarrassed and treated with unnecessary aggression. There are plenty of great bars in the area that know how to treat their guests. This isn’t one of them.
Ava Johns
Cool bar! One of the few places that isn't full of college kids so that's nice. Really outstanding cocktails and nice bartenders. They also have comedy and other events which is awesome.
Adam Vitti
Had an amazing time at License 1 and Comic cents for late night comedy show. This venue has an amazing old timey atmosphere with great cocktails and wonderful live music. I have been coming here for a few years now for the hidden comedy show! Definitely worth checking out. Always new lineups with great jokes.
Doctor Bo
This was a very cool experience for a friends birthday get together. They did not have any chartreuse which I was very disappointed about. But the drinks were still relatively unique with good options. The food was not amazing to be honest, calamari was a bit saltier than I’d like but was gluten free which is somewhat rare. The burger itself tasted pretty good but the gluten free bun which is tough to get right was quickly falling apart. I love the setup of the rooms and we had a great time playing pool - you do need some cash for change to make quarters - it’s 4 quarters for each pool game.
How to reach License No. 1
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Website: None
Why License No. 1 may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at License No. 1 with your friends? License No. 1 presents an irresistible invitation to step away from the mundane and dive into a unique social experience, ideal for group gatherings. Nestled in the historic basement of Hotel Boulderado, it offers a rare blend of early 20th-century speakeasy charm combined with a lively, modern ambiance. Whether you and your friends are cocktail aficionados, history buffs, or just looking for a cozy place to unwind, this venue caters to all tastes with its carefully crafted menu of handcrafted drinks and delicious small plates. The atmosphere is intimate yet vibrant, encouraging genuine connection without the harsh noise typical in many night spots. Its reputation as one of Boulder’s premier underground speakeasies not only promises an evening of memorable moments but also a place teeming with stories and character. The venue’s strong rating of 4.5 stars out of over 580 reviews testifies to the consistent satisfaction of its patrons, making it a trusted option for anyone seeking a refined yet relaxed environment to enjoy with their friends.
What activities are offered at License No. 1 that make it perfect for a group meetup? Upon entering the underground space, groups find themselves immersed in a multitude of social and entertainment options. Live music performances and comedy shows are regularly hosted, ensuring that no two visits are alike and offering dynamic entertainment that enhances the overall experience. Guests can enjoy the tunes or laughter from comfortably arranged seating areas, ranging from plush wingback chairs to cozy couches, designed to facilitate interaction and intimate conversation. Additionally, the bar features a skee ball room, providing a playful and unique activity to engage in between sips or while waiting for food. The dining menu, though focused on small plates and appetizers, pairs excellently with their diverse drink offerings, including a curated selection of craft cocktails, fine wines, beer, and spirits. This variety caters to different tastes and dietary preferences within a group, making it an inclusive event spot. The venue further accommodates larger gatherings with designated seating spaces that can host groups, providing both privacy and the buzz of the venue’s social tempo.
How does License No. 1’s ambiance enhance group gatherings? The ambiance at License No. 1 is a carefully cultivated mix of historic elegance and contemporary comfort, creating a welcoming environment for groups. The speakeasy motif, with its dim lighting, warm wood tones, and vintage décor, invites guests into a world reminiscent of the prohibition era, delivering a feeling of exclusivity and sophistication. The layout includes various small nooks and private corners, allowing groups to find their own space for quiet conversations or lively debates without being drowned out by an overwhelming soundtrack. Unlike many modern bars with booming music, License No. 1’s sound design supports interaction by balancing live music volume and conversational noise, encouraging guests to actually engage with each other. This setting fosters a relaxing yet convivial vibe—a perfect atmosphere whether you are celebrating a special occasion, catching up with old friends, or simply seeking a classy night out. Overall, this thoughtful atmosphere is a central reason why this establishment is favored as a group meetup spot.
What makes the food and drinks menu at License No. 1 particularly suitable for hosting friends? License No. 1 offers an exceptional menu built around quality and variety, designed to complement social gatherings. Its selection includes craft cocktails created with precision and care by knowledgeable bartenders who understand how to balance flavors that appeal widely. The cocktail list changes seasonally, ensuring fresh experiences with each visit, and the wine and beer selections are both broad and well curated, giving groups many options to explore collective tastes. Small plates and food served at the bar include appetizing starters and shareable dishes that fit perfectly into a casual and flexible dining format, accommodating different appetites without the formality of full meals. This approach encourages a relaxed atmosphere where group members can snack and sip at their own pace, enhancing the social nature of the occasion. Pairing excellent drinks with flavorful food makes License No. 1 an appealing venue for anyone wanting to dine and imbibe in good company.
Why is License No. 1 ideal for a memorable and hassle-free group event? Beyond its appealing vibe and offerings, License No. 1 adds practical conveniences that facilitate effortless group meetups. The venue accepts reservations, an essential feature for larger groups planning their outings in advance, ensuring that seating and service needs are met without stress. The staff is known for being knowledgeable about the menu and attentive, contributing to a smooth and enjoyable guest experience. While reviews mention occasional issues with customer service, the majority highlight fast and friendly service that enhances the ease of group gatherings. The acceptance of credit cards makes transactions straightforward, removing common logistical barriers to group orders. The venue’s location in downtown Boulder also makes it accessible, with proximity to other nightlife or dining options if groups want to extend their evening beyond License No. 1. All these factors collectively make it a convenient and well-rounded destination for hosting gatherings that guests will remember fondly.
In what ways does the historical significance of License No. 1 add to its charm for meetups? License No. 1 is not just a bar; it is a landmark carrying the legacy of Boulder’s early 20th-century liquor laws and culture. Holding the very first legal liquor license granted to a restaurant bar in Boulder since Prohibition-era restrictions, it embodies a rare continuity of history given its operation in the basement of the historic Hotel Boulderado. This rich backstory adds a unique layer of intrigue and prestige to gatherings held here, making it more than just a night out—it's a chance to connect with Boulder’s heritage in an authentic setting. Groups can appreciate the sophisticated nod to the past while enjoying modern amenities, making conversations richer and the whole experience more immersive. This blend of history and hospitality is especially attractive for visitors and locals alike who want their meetups to have more meaning and ambience than typical bars provide.
How does License No. 1 cater to diverse group dynamics and preferences? Groups coming to License No. 1 come with varied expectations and tastes, and the venue is well-equipped to accommodate these differences. From beverage choices spanning classic cocktails to wines and beers, everyone is likely to find a favorite. The small plates menu offers enough diversity to please different palates, including options for light eaters or those who want something satisfying without a formal meal. Seating arrangements range from intimate corners for smaller subsets of a group wanting quieter conversation, to more open spots where a livelier group can enjoy the buzz around live performances. Additionally, the presence of games like skee ball provides an interactive element for groups wanting to mix entertainment with dining and drinking. This flexibility in offerings ensures that no matter the group’s composition—whether it’s friends catching up, families celebrating, or co-workers socializing—License No. 1 provides a welcoming environment that supports diverse social needs and moods.
What should groups know before planning their visit to License No. 1? While License No. 1 is a fantastic destination for group meetups, knowing some practical details can enhance the experience. The venue operates Wednesday through Saturday from late afternoon until around 2:00 AM, so planning within these days ensures access to the full range of its services, including live entertainment nights. It is closed on Sundays, Mondays, and Tuesdays. Reservations are recommended, especially for larger groups or on busy nights, to secure seating and avoid wait times. It is advisable to arrive earlier in the evening to enjoy the full ambiance before peak crowds arrive. While most reviews are positive, a few mention occasional inconsistencies in service; therefore, communicating clearly with the staff and giving feedback can help ensure smoother visits. Groups should also be prepared for a lively atmosphere that blends quiet conversation corners with areas of energetic performance, allowing them to choose the spot best suited to their group’s mood.
In summary, License No. 1 stands as an exceptional venue in Boulder that combines historical significance, a vibrant yet intimate atmosphere, diverse food and drink options, engaging live entertainment, and thoughtful group accommodations. Its 4.5-star rating and glowing reviews underscore why it is an outstanding choice for anyone looking to host a memorable meetup with friends or family.