The Book Bar - Denver, CO

The Book Bar - Denver, CO

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(Cue circus calliope music).  "Ladies and gentlemen, step right up and see this freak of nature, this marvel of the universe, admired and revered by all the crowned heads of Europe.  This never before seen beast is half bookstore, half wine bar and yet it lives and dare I say, survives."  That's right, readers, this place does both and according to my observations, it does both very well.  This place has only been operational for 3 years, its business is going quite well, and it is starting to receive more national recognition for its unique business model.  And if you want to add a third head to this two-headed monster you can throw in the airbnb unit available for rent above the store.  So let me get this straight.  A place with books, coffee, wine, and a rental unit above the bookstore, all located in the chic Tennyson St. area?  Yes please.

Nicole S., the fine owner and founder of The Book Bar, was only in the store briefly during my visit.  But in 5 minutes I knew all I needed to know and both Laurens backed me up on this.  This woman is "with-it," she's sharp, and she's good at this business.  The store hosts frequent author events on-site, there is a fantastic outdoor patio that I'm sure really rocks in the summer, and story time for pre-schoolers three times a week.  The store offers all new books and Nicole is very good at curating a quality inventory.  She's also the founder of a national book club, Book Hub Club.  Check it out at www.BookClubHub.org.  You can start a book club or join a book club at this site.  The Book Bar is also host to several book clubs and has great space for these groups.  The store was formerly known as the Book Nookery until Nicole bought it and now has it going gangbusters.  In the words of Lauren W., the marketing events manager, the store has a good energy and I couldn't agree more.  Local customers are huge here and the location is very conducive to foot traffic.  The store also enjoys out-of-town visitors, especially on weekends.  This indie does very well for customers looking for gifts.  I really like their Mother's Day gift packages they're putting together which includes a book, a sideline, and a card.  Parking is free and on the street but can be tight at times.  Just be patient.

Although I spoke to Nicole briefly, I spent most of my time having a wonderful chat with Lauren W. and Lauren T. (sidenote:  If your name is Lauren and you need a job, they might hire you here!).  These two were the best and I'm always appreciative when I get to visit any of the staff at the bookstores.

Readers, I know many of you would absolutely enjoy a place like this.  I have some advice for you.  Plan on visiting here soon because big things are ahead for The Book Bar.  This place is on the cusp of exploding into even bigger and better things than what it is already enjoying.  If you wait too long, you'll get trampled!  Go to an indie and buy a book.  Bonsoir.

JUST FINISHED:  Holy Cow, David Duchovny.  A short, light, quick read about Elsie the cow who discovers the truth on her farm about what really happens to cows.  She decides to break out and try to get to India where cows are worshipped.  She's joined by a pig who wants to go to Israel and a turkey who wants to go to Turkey.  An amusing read and a nice break if you need something after a serious and/or 600 page doorstop.  Recommended.

CURRENTLY READING:  The Readers Of Broken Wheel Recommend, Katarina Bivald.

One of the best murals I've seen on the outside of a bookstore.  How many literary characters do you recognize?  If I ever  do a top ten of bookstore murals, this one will be on it.  

Another exterior view of the front entrance.  See that little display to the right of the front door?...

...it's a little free library.  Don't think I've seen this at any indies.  

View looking to the left of the front entrance.  

View looking to the right of the front entrance.  The wine bar and coffee area.  

This is a really nice display of indie picks just inside the front door but since my picture is so crummy you'll be required to visit the bookstore and see for yourself.  

This is a wonderful seating area in the front of the store.  

Did I mention that they have wine?

A few of the sidelines available.  

Remember the old library card catalogs?  I love this display for books on top of the card catalog cabinet.  

This is the check out counter.  Do you see what the counter is on top of?  Those are lots of books!  

A portion of the children's area.  

I think this is a great way to get kids involved at the bookstore.  

This is a room toward the back of the store.  Another great place to sit and try out a book or maybe meet with your book club.  

If you're on a budget, find this display.  

This is the outdoor patio located behind the store.  I'm pretty sure this is a happenin' area when the weather is nice.  

If you decide to visit The Book Bar and book the space above the store, you'll have your own patio.  

You can find recommendations throughout the store.  

With Lauren on the left and Lauren in the center.  Thanks for a great visit.