Russells smokehouse denver: farewell to iconic speakeasy

Russells Smokehouse Denver, home to the renowned Green Russell speakeasy, has closed its doors for good. The beloved bar, located beneath Larimer Square, shut down after 12 years of operation due to renovations in the area. The closure marks the end of an era for both staff and loyal customers who have come to love the craft cocktails and unique atmosphere of this iconic establishment.

The Last Menu: A Tribute to Excellence

As the final month of service approached, the staff at Russells Smokehouse Denver set out to create one last cocktail menu that would showcase their best creations. Bartenders and servers gathered early, bringing their own concoctions to propose for this special occasion. Hours of debate and deliberation led to the selection of a single, glorious list of drinks that would be served during the last month of operation.

Craft cocktails are more than just beverages at Russells Smokehouse Denver. They are works of art that take months to perfect. Bartenders like Addison Blyeth and Michael santi Santiago dedicated themselves to creating unique recipes that would leave a lasting impression on customers. The opportunity to have their creations featured on the final menu was a source of pride and a testament to their skills as mixologists.

A Place of Creativity and Connection

What set Russells Smokehouse Denver apart from other bars was its open environment. Any staff member, whether from Green Russell or the adjoining Russell's Smokehouse, could submit a drink for consideration during the quarterly menu selection process. This sense of inclusivity fostered creativity and allowed everyone to contribute their ideas and creations to the bar's offerings.

For many employees, Russells Smokehouse Denver was more than just a job. It was a place where they grew both personally and professionally. Lead server Emily Kelly, who started working at the bar shortly after moving to Denver, expressed the sentiment shared by many: i've grown up, literally, in this building into an adult, so it really feels like i'm losing a sense of myself.

A Bittersweet Farewell

The final night at Russells Smokehouse Denver was filled with mixed emotions. Repeal Day, an annual celebration of prohibition's end, coincided with the bar's last night of operation. Bartenders who had previously worked at the establishment returned to make one last appearance, adding to the sense of nostalgia and camaraderie.

While the closure of Russells Smokehouse Denver was met with initial anger and disappointment, many employees came to appreciate the bittersweet nature of the farewell. The Bonanno Concepts, owners of the bar, had plans to open a new cocktail spot nearby, ensuring that most, if not all, of the staff would have a place to continue their careers. However, the unique atmosphere and connections formed at Russells Smokehouse Denver were irreplaceable.

A Final Celebration

On New Year's Eve, as the clock ticked closer to midnight, the staff and customers of Russells Smokehouse Denver gathered for a final toast. Frank and Jacqueline Bonanno, the owners, led their employees outside to light a lantern and send handwritten notes into the night sky. The sense of community and love that had grown within the walls of the bar was palpable.

As the night came to a close, tears were shed and toasts were made. The staff of Russells Smokehouse Denver chanted, best job i've ever had! as they bid farewell to a place that had become more than just a workplace. The legacy of Green Russell and Russells Smokehouse will live on in the memories of its staff and customers, forever cherished as a symbol of creativity, connection, and the art of mixology.

What led to the closure of Russells Smokehouse Denver?

Russells Smokehouse Denver closed its doors due to renovations in the area. The landlords needed the space for a boiler room as they worked on renovating Larimer Square.

Will the staff members of Russells Smokehouse Denver have new employment opportunities?

Yes, the owners of Russells Smokehouse Denver have plans to open a new cocktail spot nearby, ensuring that most, if not all, of the staff will have a place to continue their careers.

What made Russells Smokehouse Denver unique?

Russells Smokehouse Denver stood out for its open environment, where any staff member could submit a drink for consideration during the menu selection process. This fostered creativity and allowed everyone to contribute their ideas and creations to the bar's offerings.

What was the atmosphere like at Russells Smokehouse Denver?

Russells Smokehouse Denver had a unique atmosphere that fostered a sense of community and connection. Staff members often formed tight bonds with each other and with loyal customers, creating a warm and welcoming environment.

How long was Russells Smokehouse Denver in operation?

Russells Smokehouse Denver survived for 12 years, including a period of closure during the COVID-19 pandemic. It became a beloved institution in the Denver bar scene during its time of operation.

If you want to know other articles similar to Russells smokehouse denver: farewell to iconic speakeasy you can visit the Bar category.