In Denver, the art of mixology and craft brewing let bartenders and brewers flex their creative muscles. And giving their concoctions innovative names seems to be just part of the process. While there are a lot to choose from, here are some of the most intriguing drink names in Denver.

 

Cocktails

‘The Last Nail’ at Linger

Having this bourbon and Drambuie drink on the menu at Linger is especially apt, given the restaurant’s history as the former site of a mortuary. Look closely and you’ll notice that their giant neon sign still reads Olinger Mortuaries, with the “O” unlit to emphasize “linger.” Despite its grim past, this is one of Denver’s hottest hangouts for top cuisine, cocktails and views.

 

‘Sweet-Talkin' Mullet’ at MakFAM

Really, every drink’s moniker at this Broadway Chinese restaurant is clever (take the MSG savory martini, aptly named the MSGin, or the Mui Mui of the Corn), but we’re partial to the Mullet these days. A low-ABV mix of melon, lemon and pear and bergamot liqueur, it’s the perfect drink to wash down the hot spot’s dumplings, noodles and bao.

 

‘Methuselah’ at Tatarian

There’s a distinct tree theme at Tatarian, a bar in the Berkeley district that gets its very business name from a type of maple tree that was planted in the neighborhood in its early history. Each of the cocktails on the menu has a connection to a tree, which you can read about in their beautifully produced, coffee table-worthy cocktail menu. Inside, you’ll find a tribute to Methuselah, a bristlecone pine that is 4,850 years old, believed to be the oldest tree in the world. The cocktail version is a fusion of vodka, Contratto Aperitif, grapefruit and elderflower liqueurs, and orange bitters. 

 

‘Depeache Mode’ at American Bonded

You don’t even have to be a fan of 80’s synth pop to love American Bonded’s Depeache Mode. The tropical blend of rum, coconut, peach and lemon will have you thinking you’re on a beach somewhere. (And humming “Just Can’t Get Enough.”) The bar is also known for its well-priced classic cocktails, best enjoyed from the rooftop.

 

Craft Beer

‘Hold Me Closer, Tony Danza’ at Call to Arms Brewing

We don’t know what these oft-misheard lyrics to Elton John’s hit “Tiny Dancer” have to do with Call to Arms Brewing’s Dry-Hopped Saison, but we know this brew has definitely got us singing. A fresh, citrusy profile makes for easy drinking in this casual bar that has the feel of a welcoming English Pub.

 

‘Hold Steady’ at Ratio Beerworks

Founded by punk musicians-turned-brewers, Ratio Beerworks is just one of the coolest places to hang out in Denver, with live music, art shows and a retro ambiance. The Hold Steady might make you think of a good rock song, and the dark, roasty flavor of this chocolate rye Scotch ale supports that hard-hitting image. There's also the Dear You French Saison, a popular brew that’s on the lighter side.

 

‘Hazy Hercules’ at Great Divide Brewing Co.

You can probably guess that this Imperial IPA is going to be strong, but you may not be expecting the high-ABV beer to be…tropical? But that’s what this award-winning brewery is known for, crafting exceptional ales with distinct flavors and doing so in a cool taproom experience. From Great Divide’s downtown tasting room to RiNo’s Barrel Bar to an outpost at Denver International Airport, you have options for where to down your Hazy Hercules.

 

‘Princess Yum Yum’ at Denver Beer Co.

If you’re looking for something light and fruity, swallow your pride, put on a sheepish grin and order up the Princess Yum Yum Raspberry Kolsch. You’ll be delighted you did. It’s a traditional Kolsch fermented with fresh raspberries, and it’s only 4.8 percent alcohol, so you can linger over more than one of these on Denver Beer Co.’s sunny patio, with extra-long picnic tables, umbrellas and strings of lights. 

 

Ratio Beerworks is pictured above.