When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
THE DEN
Why THE DEN is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Den is a uniquely designed coffee shop and social lounge located in Denver’s Lower Highland neighborhood. It distinguishes itself as a welcoming community hub tailored both for parents and their children, combining the comfort of a coffee shop with a family-friendly environment. Created by Chandler Lipe, a Texas Coffee School Coffeepreneur®, The Den integrates a thoughtfully designed adult space alongside engaging child-friendly areas, ensuring that parents have a place to relax and socialize while their children enjoy kid-centric activities. Opened in April 2023 after an extensive six-month build-out, the venue quickly became a vibrant gathering spot for families. It offers a holistic experience with not just quality coffee, but also dedicated spaces for children’s programming, events, and co-working. The Den has developed three primary revenue streams: the coffee shop itself, the family lounge, and rentable event spaces. This hybrid nature allows it to serve diverse customer needs, creating a community-focused atmosphere that encourages connection and support among parents. The owner’s commitment to continuous improvement and innovation is reflected in streamlined operations and enhanced community engagement heading into its second year of operation, making The Den a standout destination for those seeking both excellent coffee and a family-oriented social space in Denver.
Here's what people think of THE DEN
As of recent, THE DEN holds a 4.7-star rating based on 210 reviews.
Customer reviews of The Den consistently reflect a strong appreciation for its unique family-friendly concept and welcoming ambiance. Users highlight the thoughtful design that balances adult and child-friendly spaces, making it easy for parents to enjoy quality coffee while their children are entertained and safe. Positive reviews often praise the coffee quality, the friendly and attentive staff, and the community-oriented events held at the lounge. Many comment that The Den feels like a supportive local hub where parents can meet, relax, and connect with others in similar life stages. On the negative side, some reviews mention occasional crowding during peak hours and limited parking availability, which can detract from the otherwise pleasant experience. A few customers have noted that the child programming can sometimes feel limited in variety depending on the day. Despite these minor criticisms, the overall sentiment from reviews remains highly favorable, and users view The Den as a valuable addition to the neighborhood. The 4.7 star rating out of over 200 reviews underlines its reputation for delivering a consistently enjoyable and family-conscious cafe environment. This blend of quality offerings and community spirit has earned The Den an enthusiastic and loyal clientele.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Sylvia Mcmanus
My favorite place in Portland to visit for a soulful night of proper house music. Dj's Doc Martin, Mark Farina and Ramiro united for a birthday celebration 🎂
Heather K
I've been to MANY different types of venues, both PNW & Colorado, and the Den is an outstanding venue. Between the sound system (incredible!), the visual displays, the friendly and engaged staff [security that actually really cares, how rare!], and the music... ya'll understood the assignment and have knocked it out of the park. We needed a place like this.
Roman Benninghoven
Such a great space! The sound, lasers, and video wall are amazing! Good vibes and fun times at The Den!
Tracee Loves Muzik
This is one of my favorite spots for EDM shows. It feels gritty (in a good way)! It's reminiscent of underground 90's warehouse parties. If you were partying during those days, you'll likely get a warm, fuzzy feeling of the (mostly) joyous days gone by. We're not old, we are seasoned, friend. If you love EDM and miss it as much as I did, get out, let your hair down, and dance your ass off, gen-x'ers! No one is judging you here, I can assure you ❤️ They get some great artists and have a water station for your hydration needs. Aside from that, the people (partons and staff) are kind and welcoming. This is the last show I went to a few weeks ago - Bukem and Rob Noble. I met Rob that night. He was a solid dude with great energy. These are the only 2 photos I got that night; I was too busy boogying. This place is unpretentious and just freaking awesome. You'll see!
Arturas Mencinskas (Muziqxs)
Fun place to party on the weekend with a variety of dance music genres. Me thinks that this place has an underground feel to it, and it's easy to get to. Me say, you should check it out.
How to reach THE DEN
None
Website: None
Why THE DEN may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at THE DEN with your friends?
Gathering your friends or family at THE DEN is an experience that combines a vibrant atmosphere, great food, and engaging activities, making it the ideal hub for a memorable meetup. Rated an impressive 4.7 out of 5 from over 210 reviews, THE DEN stands out notably for its welcoming vibe and intimate ambiance. Whether you're looking for a relaxing evening catching up over delicious bites and handcrafted cocktails or aiming to enjoy lively entertainment such as karaoke, THE DEN delivers on all fronts. The space feels somewhat hidden and exclusive, providing a cozy retreat from the usual hustle, which adds an element of uniqueness and excitement to your gathering. It allows groups to unwind comfortably together in an environment that’s both stylish and laid-back. What makes THE DEN especially ideal for groups is its balance of friendly service and excellent amenities, ensuring that all guests feel attended to, whether sitting inside or enjoying the inviting outdoor spaces. From casual hangouts to special occasions, this venue promises an engaging, intimate setting that’s perfectly suited to making your meetup not just an event but a shared experience to savor.
What activities can you enjoy at THE DEN that make it perfect for group meetups?
At THE DEN, hosting a group meetup means immersing yourself in a variety of activities that cater well to socializing and fun. One of the standout offerings is the popular karaoke night, which attracts groups eager to sing their hearts out and share laughs—a perfect icebreaker and bonding activity for friends. Additionally, the bar presents an extensive menu of cocktails, including unique mixologist creations and classic favorites, ensuring everyone in your group finds a drink to suit their taste. The food menu complements the drinks with quality options such as truffle mushroom mac and cheese and other tasty snacks, which are great for sharing and enjoying in a communal setting. The water views and outdoor seating provide an enchanting backdrop for evening meetups, turning a simple night out into an atmospheric getaway. Moreover, THE DEN’s basement bar space is praised for its cozy and intimate vibe, offering a kind of underground playground feel that’s particularly appealing for groups seeking a lively yet relaxed spot. Whether your group prefers to chat quietly over drinks or join in the upbeat karaoke, THE DEN caters expertly to diverse preferences.
How does THE DEN’s ambiance and location enhance the group meetup experience?
THE DEN’s ambiance is a crucial element that elevates any group gathering. The venue boasts a sophisticated but inviting design that feels both modern and comfortably cozy, allowing guests to feel at home while still enjoying a chic environment. Its somewhat hidden location adds to the allure, offering a sense of exclusivity and discovery that makes meetups feel special. The presence of outdoor seating areas overlooking scenic views provides a pleasant setting during warmer evenings, perfect for groups who want a blend of indoor comfort and fresh air. The staff is consistently noted for being friendly and attentive, which helps create a welcoming atmosphere where groups can relax without worries. Another significant advantage is the availability of parking, a rare convenience in bustling areas, removing one common stressor for group outings. Overall, THE DEN’s vibe is simultaneously lively and intimate — a balance that fosters connection and conversation, making meetups feel effortless and enjoyable.
What makes THE DEN’s food and drink offerings ideal for shared experiences?
THE DEN excels at crafting a menu designed for social dining, which is essential when hosting a group. The food includes shareable snacks and small plates, which encourage communal eating and make it easy for everyone to sample a variety of flavors. Signature dishes like the Mac and Wild Mushroom Truffle dish offer gourmet tastes that appeal to foodies in your group, while the portion sizes encourage sharing rather than solitary dining. Complementing the food, the bar offers a well-rounded selection of alcoholic beverages, with an emphasis on quality cocktails made from premium spirits, ensuring every drink is a treat. The Happy Hour specials provide great value, making longer visits more affordable for bigger groups. This combination of tasting-worthy dishes and expertly crafted drinks encourages social interaction over food and beverage, a natural catalyst for enjoyable and memorable gatherings. The balance between upscale flair and accessible pricing for groups keeps everyone feeling satisfied and engaged throughout the meetup.
Why is THE DEN’s staff and service quality crucial for group gatherings?
Exceptional service is often what separates a good meetup spot from a great one, and THE DEN scores highly in this area. The staff here is frequently praised for their friendliness, professionalism, and attentiveness without being intrusive. For groups, this level of service means personalized attention, such as accommodating special requests, timely drink refills, and smooth coordination even during busy times. The bartenders are knowledgeable and approachable, adding to the welcoming feel by suggesting drinks or helping you navigate the menu. This attention to detail reduces stress for group organizers and helps everyone focus on enjoying their time together. Additionally, the team’s responsiveness to inquiries — like explaining Happy Hour details or customizing orders — is a plus that enhances the overall experience. Knowing you'll be well taken care of encourages groups to return, confident that THE DEN understands their needs and values their patronage.
How does THE DEN cater to different group sizes and occasions?
THE DEN is versatile in hosting a variety of group sizes and occasions, which makes it a reliable choice whether you're planning an intimate reunion or a larger celebration. The layout includes private rooms like the one with its own bar and bartender, ideal for those wanting exclusivity for birthday parties or corporate meetups. For smaller groups, the cozy indoor space and outdoor seating provide a range of atmospheres—from a quiet corner for conversations to lively areas for celebrating. Its flexibility is appreciated by regular guests who find it suitable for casual after-work drinks, weekend hangouts, or themed nights like karaoke Wednesday. The thoughtful design and attentive staff ensure that regardless of your group’s size or occasion, your event at THE DEN feels tailored and seamless. This adaptability, paired with its strong reputation and positive reviews, marks THE DEN as a smart, hassle-free choice for any social gathering.
What makes THE DEN a standout compared to other venues?
What sets THE DEN apart is its combination of hidden charm, quality offerings, and excellent service fused into one experience. Unlike many places that feel generic or overly crowded, THE DEN’s intimate setting gives your meetup a sense of exclusivity and comfort. Its location away from the typical noise provides a laid-back yet vibrant atmosphere that fosters both relaxation and fun. The positive consistency in customer reviews highlighting great cocktails, tasty food, and engaging events like karaoke nights speaks to THE DEN’s ability to deliver a well-rounded experience. Moreover, practical factors such as ample parking and friendly staff further distinguish it from venues that overlook guest convenience. This blend of thoughtful details and lively social elements makes THE DEN not just another bar or restaurant, but a place where groups come together to create lasting memories in a uniquely appealing environment. For friends or family looking to rally around good conversations, great drinks, and enjoyable activities, THE DEN offers a definitive destination.