¹

August, 5, 2010 - Denver - Twelve blocks away from the conference, I sit, as Aretha blows the lid off a man who done her wrong, and drink. I’m 5280 feet above sea level in a bar fashioned after the Queen Mary’s. Last night, my breathing was labored. This morning, I drank hotel room coffee for breakfast. Right now, I’m with my Sweetness, enjoying a sidecar and a strong buzz.

Yes.

We comment on the décor and Lisa, the bartender, tells us the only thing that changed about the place in the 23 years she’s worked there is the dress code: white shirt, black vest and pants, and her favorite, a striped tie. She’s especially proud of her whimsical collection of mens neckwear.

The Oxford Room lists a number of martinis on the drink menu but Lisa quickly informs us that they are known for their classic cocktails as well. Sweets orders a Sazerac which, like all their cocktails, is served in a martini glass. It’s dry— very little sweet— and strong. My Sidecar is cold and tart, like I like my women.

A business-trip laugh chorus erupts from the table in the corner. No clients, just the guys. It’s only the beginning of August and that quota they’re carrying has yet to bloom into desperate panic. It’s there though, forcing their guffaws. Don’t get me wrong, it’s not that type of joint. Their laughter just adds more texture to the red-lit, Art Deco stylings of The Cruise Room.

It’s the one place in Denver’s downtown canyon of shopping that I found a good drink. I wish I had time to listen to Lisa’s stories but I had to run off. Stupid world we live in.

Note: Thanks to @freitag, @frakintosh, @ibvanmat and @lindstifa for the suggestions via Twitter.

Posted at 4:21pm and tagged with: Albert,.