Secret Denver: A Guide to the Dairy Block, Denver’s Hottest Microdistrict
I knew Denver was too cool for me when they got a high-end sneaker concierge and cocktail lounge. While Sneekeazy sadly didn’t make it (cue eye roll / shocked face), Denver continued its millennialization (yes, I’m making it a verb). And the newest, trendiest spot for visitors and locals alike? The Dairy Block, an entire block of awesomeness.
The Dairy Block is classified as a micro-district hidden in plain sight downtown. Think the tiny home concept expanded into an entire neighborhood, throw in a food hall, restaurants, bars, boutiques, and a hotel, all impeccably designed to look fantastic on your feed, and voila! You have the Dairy Block, an art alley on steroids. Named after Windsor Dairy, the area’s former tenant, the tastemaker’s enclave boasts an impressive 715 art pieces, murals, and interactive installations created by 31 local Colorado artists sprinkled throughout the 15 shops, 19 eateries, seven bars, luxury co-working space, and 172-room boutique hotel.
The entire alley is pedestrian-only and lined with painted picnic tables, café tables, and heaters so you can eat/drink/be merry. Snap photos of the street art and carefully curated touches, which will have you noticing something new everywhere you turn. Take in the inspirational quotes underneath your feet, the poetry on the walls, and touch and turn the butter churns which double as music boxes. You’ll want to peep their events calendar because there’s always a pop-up happening or something new going on (including weekly drag queen bingo). Here’s what else to look out for when you visit.
Where to Eat in the Dairy Block
The Milk Market is the heart and soul of the Dairy Block, a carefully curated food hall with 16 concepts all created by beloved Denver chef Frank Bonanno. There’s everything from pizza to gelato with a weekend brunch, weekday breakfast, lunch, dinner, and happy hour offerings. Don’t miss his signature “hot and naked” chicken sandwiches, Salt and Grinder deli sammies, and hand-tossed pasta reminiscent of his high-end Italian spot Luca. Make yourself a food crawl and try a bit of everything at this casual eatery where you can dine-in, get food to go, or linger over the alley tables.
For a more traditional dining experience, there are several sit-down restaurants with table service. Whimsically appointed with an airstream, outdoor igloo, and colorful mural, Kachina is Tex-Mex meets Southwest. Great for sharables, try the Navajo fry bread, Baja tacos, cheesy queso, and ceviche. A high-end sushi and raw bar, For[a]ged is the ultimate date night spot with everything from truffle deviled quail eggs to mango and kumquat oysters. Another intimate experience, the 12-seat chef’s counter at Bruto offers a multi-course, globally-inspired omakase tasting menu, while their BOH counter-service offers a la carte tacos, tortas, and tostadas to enjoy on the patio.
Where to Shop in the Dairy Block
The Free Market features a rotating collection of artisan products with everything from flowers to apparel. Check out the designer jewelry at Sarah O. Go back to a bygone era and feel fancy at Vintage Label. Embrace Colorado chic at Topo Designs, treat yourself at Temper Chocolates, rejuvenate with conscientious spa-aah products from Aesop, and take home trippy neon home décor by artist Scott Young.
Drinks in the Dairy Block
Poka Loka is the resident tiki bar, while Moo Bar, in the Milk Market, lets you get cocktails to go to enjoy in the alley. Run for the Roses is a personal favorite, a speakeasy that has you order by playing cards. For a more refined experience, Blanchard Family Wines has flights and charcuterie pairings, while Seven Grand is the resident whiskey bar with over 700 labels to taste, one of the largest whiskey selections in the west.
Spend the Night
The Maven is fantastic for a staycation or a great place to post up if you’re visiting Denver for the week or weekend. Besides virtually being made for the ‘gram, its ideally situated just steps from Union Station, Coors Field, Larimer Square, and the best of LoDo and RiNo. Take advantage of amazing amenities like free drinks in the lobby at happy hour, complimentary gourmet coffee, and discounts throughout the Dairy Block. There are photo ops everywhere you turn, from the artisan tile floors to the sexy elevator walls made of leather belts and swinging chairs in the hallway. There’s a free pinball machine in the lobby, co-working spaces, and “local AF” art on the walls. It’s dog friendly, great for a girlfriend getaway, sultry couples retreat, getaway within a getaway or simply a staycation.
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