When asking yourself about something to do near me in Denver with a group of friends or family, consider
The Thin Man
Why The Thin Man is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Thin Man in Denver is a distinctive bar that offers a unique venue to meet up with friends, blending a fun atmosphere with affordable drinks and notable hospitality when experienced under good service. The venue is known for its lively crowd, creating an inviting ambiance particularly on weekend or Sunday nights, where patrons can enjoy a sociable environment with well-priced drinks and decent servings, making it attractive for casual get-togethers and lively conversations. While the bar's decor has been described as heavy on religious iconography, which might underline a quirky or thematic character, it adds a layer of originality uncommon in many typical bars, potentially sparking conversations and making visits memorable. The Thin Man's appeal lies in its mix of affordability, atmosphere, and its potential as a social hub where groups of friends can unwind, enjoy drinks, and connect in a setting with a distinct personality. These factors contribute to making The Thin Man a noteworthy meeting place in the Denver nightlife scene.
Here's what people think of The Thin Man
As of recent, The Thin Man holds a 4.6-star rating based on 627 reviews.
Reviews for The Thin Man present a mixed but instructive picture. Many users appreciate the bar's lively atmosphere and affordability, praising the cheap drinks and fun vibe which contribute to a welcoming spot for regular socializing and casual nights out. These positive reviews highlight the bar as a “cool” place, particularly emphasizing its spirited crowd and the good value offered, which is essential for a friendly local hangout. However, the bar also receives criticism, notably regarding customer service and décor. Negative feedback points to lapses in attention and rudeness from the bartenders, with specific incidents of staff ignoring customers being mentioned, which detracts from the overall experience. Additionally, some reviewers find the décor uninspired or odd due to an overabundance of religious imagery, which they feel detracts from character and ambiance. In conclusion, while The Thin Man is praised for its affordability and lively crowd, potential visitors should consider variable service and atmosphere quality. The mixed reviews suggest that it remains a place with a distinct personality but may not consistently meet expectations for service and ambiance.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Gus Chavez Jr
Cool little local bar in the middle of the Denver downtown neighborhood. The drink menu and beer selection were great, and the server/bartender was awesome. Nice ambiance and loved the decor. Being a non practicing Catholic, it brought a lot of humor and felt no guilt drinking in front of hundreds of crosses. Few bar patrons were annoying thinking they owned a corner or the bar but no fault of the establishment and just some rude folk. Overall a great place for a cocktail and beer.
Jordan White
Love the vibe. Love the Christmas lights and the red Christmas lights. Definitely a vibe. Inside is cozy and romantic. Good music.
Natalie Keller
This is our new favorite bar in Denver! The ambiance is so cool, drinks are delicious and a good price, and the staff is all super friendly. Nicole is the sweetest and she makes excellent drinks.
Amir Nahavandi
The Thin Man is one of Denver's best cozy, offbeat bars - with dim red lighting and eclectic decor that gives it a lot of character. Their infused vodka shots—especially the jalapeño—are a highlight, and they make a solid martini. The crowd is often diverse, and it’s a great spot for casual conversation, particularly if you want to go somewhere solo. Service can be a little slow during peak times, but that’s just a byproduct of how fun and laid-back the environment is. Five stars for the unique vibe, great drinks, and memorable atmosphere!
Andrés Portela
Coffee, cocktails, atmosphere all in one place till late at night. If you have the chance to meet Eric, do so, he knows his bar perfectly and they have a very well curated one with outstanding Mezcal, Tequila and Sotol.
How to reach The Thin Man
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Why The Thin Man may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The Thin Man with your friends?
If you’re looking for a warm, vibrant, and uniquely inviting spot to gather with friends, The Thin Man in Denver stands out as an exceptional choice. This bar isn’t just a place for drinks but a welcoming community hub where camaraderie thrives and memories are made. With a solid 4.6-star rating from over 600 reviewers, it clearly resonates with locals and visitors alike. The Thin Man’s enduring charm lies in its unpretentious, ‘everyone bar’ atmosphere — it’s where diverse groups, from longtime regulars to newcomers, can engage openly and comfortably. The ambiance strikes a perfect balance between fun and thoughtful, fostering deep conversation without the noise of a typical sports bar. Whether you want to celebrate a special occasion or simply catch up with friends, this is a venue that turns simple outings into moments of connection. Plus, the staff’s friendly, attentive service makes everyone feel like family, ensuring your group is well taken care of. The Thin Man isn’t just about drinks but a social outlet and safe space where bonds are strengthened and friendships celebrated. It is a prime rallying point for groups seeking a relaxed yet lively scene that welcomes everyone with open arms.
What activities at The Thin Man make it ideal for group meetups?
Gathering a group at The Thin Man promises a variety of engaging experiences beyond just sitting and sipping drinks. The bar offers a diverse drink menu that includes specialty cocktails, especially known for its infused vodkas that introduce creative and tasty twists sure to please different palates in your group. This variety fuels the evening’s social flow, allowing friends to share and compare favorites. The space itself supports group dynamics well — its layout encourages mingling and conversation, facilitating everything from intimate one-on-one chats to larger group celebrations. The bar also features a distinctive garage door wall, which provides an indoor-outdoor drinking experience depending on the weather, offering groups flexibility and the option for fresh air and people-watching while remaining together. This architectural feature enhances the social vibe and keeps the atmosphere lively and fresh. Additionally, many visitors appreciate the bar’s quirky but cozy decor, which sparks conversations and adds to the playful yet thoughtful environment. It’s not unusually loud or crowded, making it easier to catch up without shouting, an element that significantly benefits group cohesion. All in all, these thoughtful design and menu choices make The Thin Man a well-rounded venue for groups looking to enjoy quality time together.
Why is The Thin Man recognized as a community-centric bar?
The Thin Man’s identity as more than just a bar is one of its defining features. It has built a reputation as a tight-knit community hub that supports lasting social connections. The bar is affectionately described as a “family” by regulars and staff alike, creating a strong sense of belonging that goes beyond typical nightlife spots. This is largely due to the staff’s dedicated approach—they create an atmosphere where everyone feels like a valued guest and part of something bigger. The bartenders are not only skilled but friendly and attentive, engaging with patrons in a way that personalizes the experience and strengthens group camaraderie. The owner’s philosophy of creating an “everyone bar” provides an inclusive space where people from all walks of life can feel comfortable and safe, without pressure to fit a particular mold. This openness fosters diversity and brings together a unique clientele who appreciate thoughtful conversation and genuine interaction. Whether you’re part of the “Ship of Nerds” or just anyone looking for a welcoming spot to unwind, The Thin Man’s community-centric ethos ensures every visit feels like coming home. This enduring embrace has helped the bar thrive for over two decades, making it a memorable meeting place for friends or family.
What makes the drinks and food at The Thin Man a highlight for groups?
At The Thin Man, the drink offerings play a pivotal role in elevating the group hangout experience. Known especially for their infused vodkas, the bar boasts an inventive cocktail menu that keeps everyone’s taste buds intrigued. These signature drinks are crafted with unique flavors that spark interest and often become a conversation starter among friends, offering a sense of discovery with every round. The cocktails are complemented by a well-curated beer selection, with options that appeal to casual drinkers and beer aficionados alike. Affordability further enhances the appeal, as many reviewers highlight reasonable prices that encourage ordering multiple rounds without hesitation. While The Thin Man is primarily celebrated for its drinks, it also offers light and satisfying bar food, perfect for sharing within groups eager to nibble alongside their beverages. The food is geared towards casual, crowd-pleasing choices that complement the drink menu without overwhelming the social ambiance. This combination of inventive drinks, beer variety, friendly prices, and snack options makes The Thin Man an excellent culinary complement to any group event, facilitating relaxed and extended meetups without breaking the bank.
How does the atmosphere and design at The Thin Man encourage social interaction?
The Thin Man’s atmosphere is a carefully cultivated blend of quirky charm and relaxed comfort. Its decor reflects a playful yet thoughtful personality, including a unique religious-themed art style featuring numerous crosses, which adds humor without seriousness, making for an environment that invites smiles and conversation. This distinctive look sets it apart from typical bars, ensuring that patrons have a memorable setting that naturally sparks dialogue. The layout, including the innovative garage door wall, enhances fluid social interaction by letting people move easily between indoor and outdoor spaces. This creates an open, airy feel and helps avoid the cramped, noisy environments common in urban bars. Music is present but never overwhelming, allowing conversations to flow freely, which is vital for groups wanting to connect deeply without raising voices. The crowd attracted reflects the bar’s ethos — a mix of thoughtful, laid-back individuals who value genuine interaction over superficial entertainment. Such a consistent and well-defined vibe helps groups feel at ease and encourages longer stays, making The Thin Man an ideal backdrop for meaningful gatherings and joyous celebrations alike.
What makes The Thin Man a safe and inclusive environment for all groups?
Safety and inclusivity are cornerstones of The Thin Man’s reputation. The staff’s attentiveness includes checking IDs diligently and ensuring responsible service, which contributes to a trustworthy and secure environment for guests. Beyond physical safety, the bar prides itself on a welcoming culture where everyone, regardless of background, feels valued and respected. This inclusive atmosphere is a deliberate choice by ownership, emphasizing the concept of an "everyone bar," where diversity is embraced and encouraged. The clientele reflects this ethos, as the crowd is known to be respectful, open-minded, and friendly. The bar’s approach reduces the pressure found in rowdier nightlife scenes, creating a calm but lively space where different groups — friends, coworkers, families with older kids, or more niche social circles like local “nerds” — can relax without judgment. Such a safe space fosters meaningful connections and personal freedom, encouraging groups to let their guard down and enjoy their time together fully. The Thin Man’s commitment to inclusivity has cemented its status not just as a good bar, but as a supportive social sanctuary for a wide range of patrons.
How has The Thin Man maintained its appeal over the years?
Since opening in 2001, The Thin Man has managed to maintain a loyal following while continuing to attract new patrons. Its longevity is a testament to its ability to provide consistently excellent experiences without chasing fleeting trends. Instead of trying to reinvent itself every season, The Thin Man embraces what makes it unique—its humor, its eclectic vibe, and its commitment to community building. The bar was ahead of its time with features like the garage door wall, which have become standard in newer establishments but remain a distinctive aspect of its charm. The stability of long-term staff, such as bartender Steph Cook who has contributed two decades of service, fosters a sense of continuity and familiarity that regulars appreciate deeply. The bar's refusal to conform to typical sports bar or brewery trends allows it to preserve its authentic character, focused on thoughtful conversation and genuine connections. This steadfastness generates trust and affection from patrons, many of whom describe the place as a “family” or “safe space.” Ultimately, The Thin Man's lasting appeal lies in its authentic experience, consistent quality, and the welcoming social environment it nurtures night after night.