Retrograde

I recently visited Retrograde, now transformed into the magical Starlight Lounge for the holiday season, and WOW – what an experience! This hidden speakeasy, tucked behind Sweet Action Ice Cream, is a must-visit. The whimsical lighting displays and dreamy seasonal decorations completely immerse you in festive vibes. I tried their limited-edition holiday cookie-themed cocktails, and each one was a masterpiece, crafted by their incredibly talented bartender. The Cranberry and Ginger Snap Fizz was a perfect balance of refreshing ginger and tart cranberry. The White Chocolate and Mint-Old Fashioned was a delightful surprise, topped with a sugar cookie! My absolute favorite was The Flip's house-made snickerdoodle eggnog – hands down the best eggnog I’ve ever had. And the Raspberry Thumbprint? Unforgettable. From the ambiance to the drinks, everything was top-notch. Don’t wait – this is a holiday experience you don’t want to miss!

5 star experience all the way around! Eli and Joaquin were very accommodating. Such a fun and quirky location and cool way to enter. We visited on a Saturday night during what I feel was prime time (between 11pm-1am), and had a small wait. It was nice to be able to enjoy some ice cream while waiting though! When you enter, you are met with a sci-fi themed, intimate, speakeasy vibe. The drinks were delicious and the service was EXTRAORDINARY. Eli has probably been the best bartender I have ever had - EVER! He was welcoming, knowledgeable, and fun! Joaquin also was such a cool individual who takes pride in providing great service! Prices were about average, but the flavor mixes were out of this world! Loved every minute of our time and plan on coming back with friends to share what a gem this place is (even though it is a 1.5hr drive for me and my husband).

Retrograde is one of those rare spots that just gets it. The vibe is intimate, moody, and effortlessly cool - it feels like a hidden gem the moment you walk in. The cocktails are the star of the show and they absolutely deliver. Creative, beautifully balanced, and clearly crafted by people who take their craft seriously. Every drink feels intentional, not gimmicky, and the menu strikes that perfect balance between inventive and approachable. Service is friendly, knowledgeable, and dialed in without being overbearing. Retrograde is ideal for a date night, a pre-or post-dinner stop, or impressing out-of-town guests with something uniquely Denver. Easily one of the best cocktail bars in the city - a must-visit.

Me and my wife had a double date here last night and had an awesome time. The staff was super friendly and very knowledgeable about the menu and drinks, and very attentive. This is the second speakeasy me and my wife had gone to and we weren't disappointed. The bar is hidden inside an ice cream shop named 'Sweet Action' and you have to go through a locked refrigerator door to get to the place. The ambiance inside was low light space themed when we went last night. I tried the "Bubba Ho-tep" drink initially and it was amazing! My wife had a drink that literally had a small flower in it which was the best drink I've tried in a while. Overall, the drinks, service and ambiance was amazing. I highly recommend this place for a date night or drinks with friends.