At Rook, the newly opened rooftop bar at Catbird Hotel in Denver’s River North Art District (RiNo), the night out is about more than just cocktails; it’s about competition and connection. The venue transforms the traditional rooftop experience into a playful arena where visitors can engage in games like backgammon, poker, and chess while enjoying clever drinks.
Jessica Werner, the Chief Creative Officer at Sage, shared the inspiration behind Rook, emphasizing the desire to offer a bold, unique environment that contrasts with typical bars. She stated, "Strategy and shenanigans" became the guiding principle for the bar, which is described as a "rooftop clubhouse gone rogue."
Lex Werner, the General Manager, noted that gameplay is intended to foster genuine connections. "Games get people off their phones and into conversation," he said. Rook encourages friendly competition rather than serious rivalry, so no one keeps score except in enjoying the moment.
The cocktail menu is equally spirited, featuring signature drinks like the Into the Bucket—a mix of tequila, pickle brine, agave, and lime—and creative options like frozen Dirty Gin Martinis and Espresso Martinis. They’re crafted to spark conversations and debates among patrons. The food serves late-night cravings with items like walking tacos, grilled cheese, and perfect hotdogs, designed for easy sharing without interrupting gameplay.
Rook’s ambiance captures a lively, informal party vibe with "vintage irreverence,” featuring mismatched decor, cheeky signage, and curated clutter that invites exploration. According to Jessica, the idea is to create the feeling of stumbling into an unexpected house party.
As night falls, Rook transitions into a vibrant social hub where strangers quickly become friends. Jessica remarked, "If Catbird is where you settle in, Rook is where you let loose." The rooftop aims to foster creativity and spontaneity, making it a fitting addition to RiNo’s vibrant culture.
To further engage guests, Rook hosts a variety of themed game nights throughout the week, including:
- Guess Who Tournament Nights on Tuesdays, featuring custom boards filled with pop culture icons.
- Scrabble Nights on Wednesdays, where wordplay meets cocktails.
- Beat the Bartender on Thursdays, allowing guests to challenge bartenders in trivia or games, with drink rewards.
- Summer “Pool Parties” on Sundays, combining billiards with refreshing drinks and live music.
Rook aims to be more than just another bar; it’s designed as a space for unexpected fun and connection, appealing to both thinkers and creators in the heart of Denver.
For more information, visit Rook.