Residents of Baker enjoy an urban suburban mix, with plenty of options for dining out on the weekend and convenient proximity to downtown. Baker is considered walkable, with a diverse mix of colorful bungalows, historic homes, renovated industrial spaces, and vibrant bars and eateries for the community to gather at.
The Best Coffee in Baker
Looking for an afternoon pick-me-up or a quick breakfast run for your morning caffeine fix? Check out these Baker coffee shops and roasters.
MiddleState Coffee
Where? 212 Santa Fe Drive
Middle State Coffee is all about interesting coffee. Patrons will enjoy the complexity of each brew, all while sampling an array of flavors from across the world. After all, coffee is similar to humans in that each cup comes with its own awesome eccentricities that make for an exciting first sip and an inviting journey as you savor the remainder of your cup. The Santa Fe Drive location is MiddleState’s flagship cafe and roastery, which is open every day from 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Visitors will find different coffee varieties each day, as well as a selection of baked goods, various cereal selections, burritos, and even house-made waffles!
Huckleberry Roasters
Where? 277 Broadway Unit B
Huckleberry Roasters has a foundational belief that connecting coffee and people makes today great and tomorrow better. The group loves building relationships over the timeless routine of drinking coffee. Whether you’re in the mood for something adventurous like the Cold Brew Limeade, or want to keep things classic with an Americano, Huckleberry has a touch of something for every coffee drinker. Sweeten up your morning with an Iced Chai or get refreshed with local Kombucha on tap! Customize your iced latte with milk of your choice and any flavor or sweetener that you’d like. Whether you enjoy notes of caramel or vanilla in your coffee or you’d prefer to go the mocha route — everyone has something waiting for them at Huckleberry Roasters when they need a pick-me-up!
Where to Eat & Drink in Baker
Feeling hungry? Baker doesn’t lack in delicious food options. Whether you’re in the mood for sashimi at Go Fish Sushi or you could really dig into an order of baby back ribs at Smokin’ Yards BBQ — these Baker staples should be at the top of any foodie’s bucket list.
Smokin’ Yards BBQ
Where? 900 West 1st Avenue
Smokin’ Yards BBQ was created in Idaho Springs, Colorado all the way back in 2008. Dubbed “High Elevation BBQ,” the style at Smokin’ Yards combines techniques from various regions. When you’re craving BBQ in Baker, there’s no better spot to visit for a pulled pork sandwich or some beef burnt ends. The menu features baby back ribs, smoked chicken, brisket, catfish po-boys, chicken fried steak, and all the fixings. Pair your proteins with a range of tasty sides, such as creamed corn, potato salad, fried okra, southern-style green beans, and a seasonal chili! You won’t want to skip the Colorado famous smoked hot wings, either! Served with fries and ranch, these wings are perfect for pairing with a cold beer and a football game.
Brewery Bar II
Where? 150 Kalamath Street
The menu at Brewery Bar II kicks off with appetizers, such as the “Minnies” which are small cheese and onion rellenos that are served with your choice of hot green, mild green, or red chili. Whether you’re in the mood for nachos supreme, chili con queso, or hot wings — Brewery Bar II has all of your favorite apps to share or enjoy on your own. Dig into the Mexican pizza or the Mexican hamburger wrapped in a flour tortilla or enjoy a plate of huevos rancheros. Combination platters include the No. 5 cheese enchilada, bean burrito, and ground beef taco and the No. 11 smothered tamale, cheese enchilada, and beef taco for when you just can’t decide. Save room for an order of the sopapillas or fried ice cream dusted in cinnamon and served with chocolate syrup and whipped cream!
Postino Broadway
Where? 145 North Broadway
Postino kicks off the menu with “Snacky Things” such as crispy cauliflower, shrimp scampi, roasted mushroom fondue, and the OMG grilled cheese before moving on to delicious sandwiches and paninis like the Italian beef dip or the Tuscan tuna. Postino’s iconic bruschetta board is a must try to share with the table, choose favorites such as the prosciutto di parma, fig, and mascarpone, or the ricotta, dates, and pistachio for something sweet and salty. Dessert options include the hot donut dots with a trio of dipping sauces, the crunchy hazelnut bar with peanut butter mousse, and the olive oil cake served with house-made yogurt whip and amarena cherries. Sip on a refreshing blackberry smash or an apricot palmer or explore the wine list!
Go Fish Sushi
Where? 1 Broadway b108
Go Fish Sushi has been captivating palates around the Mile High City since 2007. Situated amongst the trendiest shops, restaurants, and bars on South Broadway — Go Fish Sushi has been a staple amongst locals for over a decade. Enjoy a beautifully prepared Japanese meal or visit the bar that’s serving up wines, local beers, custom cocktails, and even imported sakes that you won’t find anywhere else! If you’re in the mood to enjoy the fresh air, sit on the patio or enjoy the tasteful interior ambiance. The main menu includes sushi bar starters like the garlic white tuna and the flame-seared sashimi. Entrees include the teriyaki tempura dinner, the miso ramen, the lamb chops, and even sushi for two which is a 17-piece chef’s choice nigiri, a rainbow roll, a tuna avocado roll, and two sides of miso soup or ginger salad.
Can’t-Miss Shops in Baker
Whether you’re in the market for new wooden furniture, garden accessories, or something magical for an upcoming costume event — these Baker shops offer shoppers a unique selection of goods that are difficult to come by anywhere else!
T-Trove Asian Decor
Where? 189 South Broadway
T-Trove has proudly been bringing quality furniture, artwork, and home decor from China, Taiwan, Japan, the United States, and other countries since 2002. Throughout the years, the shop has expanded its collection to incorporate more Asian-influenced gifts, jewelry, and garden accessories. Patrons will find hand-crafted solid wood furniture, original art, Japanese stone lanterns, quality garden pots, and unique gifts across an expansive 10,000-square-foot showroom and warehouse in Denver’s Baker neighborhood. The store is truly one of a kind and you won’t find items like these anywhere else. Explore categories via the T-Trove website, which can be customized by price, to find exactly what you’re looking for, or shop in-store to be delighted by a range of finds you weren’t expecting to fall in love with!
The Wizard’s Chest
Where? 451 Broadway
Not only is The Wizard’s Chest a great place to find your Halloween costume, but it’s also home to a wide array of wonderful delights. This one-of-a-kind family-owned store has something magical in for everyone who walks through the doors. Originally opened in 1983, The Wizard’s Chest drew its inspiration from the world of J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle Earth. The store has grown into a 16,000-square-foot castle, where patrons will discover quirky gifts, makeup, accessories, costumes, and more. Knowledgeable staff members can help answer your questions and point you in the right direction of your next fantastical idea. In the lower realms of the castle, you’ll find a hands-on play environment with toys, robot kits, books, puzzles, and more!
The Nightlife Scene in Baker
Looking for a spot to enjoy the evening and sip on some adult beverages? Check out Baker’s distilleries, cocktail bars, and breweries for a fun night out with your friends.
Stranahan’s Whiskey Distillery & Cocktail Bar
Where? 200 South Kalamath Street
Stranahan’s Whiskey Distillery offers a range of experiences where you can learn more about the whiskey, the process, the ingredients, and more! Dive into the American Single Malt Whiskey Tour for a behind-the-scenes look and whiskey tasting or check out the Distiller’s Experimental Guided Whiskey Tasting where you can sip on American single malts that you can’t taste anywhere else. Stranahan’s offers a free tour for medical professionals, first responders, teachers, and their guests to thank them for their service to the community. Pay a visit to the cocktail lounge where the mixologists will whip up some of Denver’s best whiskey cocktails for you. Rated as the nation’s #1 whiskey bar by Yelp reviewers, this is a must-do for whiskey aficionados looking to impress a date or enjoy a laid-back evening with friends!
TRVE Brewing Company
Where? 227 Broadway #101
This small local brewery features a taproom serving up eclectic house-made beers, perfect for your next night out with the pals! The brewery is one of the raddest places in Baker to hang out and drink killer beer. While the brews may not adhere exactly to any particular guidelines, you can count on the fact that they’ll always be “damn good.” On tap at TRVE are lagers such as the October Rust and ales like the Peachseeker and the Summerisle hopped with Motueka and Chinook. IPAs and pale ales include the Chapel of Ghouls (hopped with Citra, Mosaic, Nelson, and Riwaka) or you can sip on a mixed culture sour ale like the Kinds of Light: Peach ’22 aged on White Haven peaches.
Baker’s Outdoor Spaces
Want to take advantage of the beautiful weather and crisp fresh air? Check out these Baker area parks and outdoor spaces, perfect for family picnics, enjoying the playground, and walking the dog!
Dailey Park
Where? 1 South Cherokee Street
Dailey Park is nestled into the Historic Baker District with well-maintained grounds and neighborhood amenities. The park has basketball courts, various picnic shelters, and grills. There is new construction in the park on a playground and sports courts, so Dailey Park is sure to be better than ever when these facilities reopen in spring of 2025! Dogs are welcome but should be on leash when visiting Dailey Park. Whether you’re looking to fire up one of the BBQ grills or let the kiddos get their energy out on the playground, this is a great local spot to enjoy the beautiful Colorado weather in Baker!
Vanderbilt Park
Where? 855 South Platte River Drive
Just a quick hop across the South Platte River and you’ll gain access to Vanderbilt Park! The park is home to Vanderbilt Lake, as well as two baseball fields. There is open green space, onsite parking, and a meandering trail where you can get some steps in for the day! Bring out your bike and enjoy views of the South Platte River or lay out a blanket and enjoy a picnic. Bring the pup out or enjoy an afternoon with the kiddos while you spot birds, ducks, and more at the lake and along the river.
Baker Points of Interest
Check out a local art gallery or get messy in the splatter paint room at House of Immersions! These Baker destinations are a great way to explore the neighborhood and get to know the community.
Space Gallery
Where? 400 Santa Fe Drive
This Baker art gallery is a warm and inviting space and often serves as a venue for weddings and other events and gatherings. One of the current exhibits, Grounded, will run through early November and features work by Ted Moore and Anna Elise Johnson. The gallery is open Wednesday through Friday from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM and on Saturdays from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Swing by or make an appointment! Other artists on display at the gallery include Monica Aiello, Tony Ellis, Michael Hedges, Alyson Khan, David Marshall, Lynda Ray, and more.
House of Immersions
Where? 142 West 5th Avenue
House of Immersions features immersive stories, incredible set designs, and unique puzzles in one-of-a-kind escape rooms. The Splatter Paint Room is a blast for all ages and there are multiple virtual reality experiences, including free-roam virtual reality, VR escape rooms, and virtual reality arcade games! Whether you’re looking for a unique date night option or you want to bring the family out for an afternoon of fun, House of Immersions is your Baker destination for a good time! The space is open seven days a week and hours are extended on the weekends.
Want to Learn More About Living in Denver’s Baker Neighborhood?
If living in the Baker neighborhood sounds like home to you, contact the friendly team at RE/MAX Professionals to start exploring the options in the area. Whether you’re looking to buy or sell, we can help you reach your goals! Let us show you around Baker or help you discover the perfect Denver neighborhood for you.
Featured image by Craig Talbert, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
.jpg){kind=link}