Welcome to The Bookcase and Barber
Nestled behind a charming barbershop in Durango, CO, The Bookcase and Barber is a captivating speakeasy that offers an intimate atmosphere with a unique twist. Guests enter through a secret bookcase by sharing a password, creating an exclusive experience. The cocktail menu, featuring inventive drinks like the "Hemingway Part 1" Daiquiri, showcases the bartenders' passion and creativity. Patrons rave about the friendly service and cozy ambiance, making it an ideal spot for unwinding or celebrating special occasions. The mix of quality cocktails and minimal yet delightful snacks—like mini corn dogs—ensures that each visit remains memorable.
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601 E 2nd Ave B, Durango, CO 81301, United States601 E 2nd Ave B, Durango, CO 81301, United States Hotline:
If you're looking for an enchanting night out in Durango, Colorado, look no further than The Bookcase and Barber, a hidden gem that feels like a delightful secret. Nestled behind a functioning barbershop at 601 E 2nd Ave B, this speakeasy-style bar offers a unique blend of vintage charm and contemporary craft cocktails. It's a place where whispers of the past meet the artistry of mixology, creating an intimate atmosphere that invites you to unwind and savor every moment.
From the moment you step through the barbershop's doors, you are immersed in a captivating experience. Those in the know will use the password, available on their Instagram, to access the enchanting setting behind a cleverly disguised bookcase. It's not just a drink you are after; it’s an experience that engages all the senses. The inviting décor, soft candle lighting, and carefully curated music create a backdrop that perfectly complements their innovative cocktail menu.
Customer reviews echo the charm and allure of this establishment. One satisfied visitor, Madeline, described it as "completely charming," and a must-follow spot for cocktail enthusiasts. Meanwhile, Angela Bouchez highlighted the ambiance, noting how the atmosphere sets a wonderful tone for the evening, even if the service takes a tad longer. This slight delay, however, is a small price to pay for the quality of the drinks being crafted with love and skill.
Speaking of quality, the cocktails at The Bookcase and Barber tell a story of their own. A customer named Bill RB raved about the “Hemingway Part 1” Daiquiri, which artfully blends rum, lime juice, and simple syrup—a modern twist on a classic. His appreciation for the whimsical names, like the “Dr. Frederick Fronkensteen,” reflects the bar’s playful nod to literature and culture. Pair these delightful concoctions with a snack from their small menu—like the surprisingly tasty mini corn dogs—and you're in for an unforgettable evening.
The staff are warm, welcoming, and are more than happy to share their craft. Many, like regular visitor Abby K, have developed a genuine rapport with the bartenders, who take pride in their work and enjoy discussing their creative processes. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a relaxed night out, the team will go above and beyond to cater to your needs, even helping guests craft signature cocktails for events like bachelorette parties.
Furthermore, the heartfelt connection with the owner, as shared by Sarah Kunzler, makes this place feel even more special. Learning about the thought and history that went into creating The Bookcase and Barber only enhances the overall experience, making patrons feel like part of a story, rather than just visitors in a bar.
In conclusion, The Bookcase and Barber is not merely a bar; it’s a captivating blend of history, creativity, and community that beckons you to return. Whether you're drawn in by the allure of the speakeasy, the art of mixology, or simply the ambiance that wraps around you like a warm hug, it’s clear: this place is a must-visit in Durango. With a cocktail in hand and a story at your fingertips, the evenings spent here will surely linger in your memory long after you leave.
Completely charming! Follow their instagram for the password and seasonal cocktail promotions. The menu is via QR code. Most favorite speakeasy in the whole state!
Loved the experience! You need to go! It took a while to get the drink but the candle lighting and music set a nice tone.
I've been coming to The Bookcase & Barber for years now for the speakeasy. Always incredible service, wonderful and consistent drinks, and a really intimate atmosphere. I also had a friend planning a bachelorette party and they helped her come up with a signature cocktail for it. The bartenders love what they do and are happy to talk about their concoctions and work. Cannot recommend enough!
This is the coolest place we have been to in a while. A great Speakeasy behind a functioning barbershop! You enter into the barbershop, and if you know the ”password” they will open the secret bookcase to let you into the bar (hint...go to their Instagram page and you will find it). Great atmosphere, dark, wonderfully furnished, and truly feels like you can just hang out and relax. The staff is very friendly, and constantly checks on you, and there are lots of places to sit with 2 actual bar areas. The cocktail menu is fun with lots of options, we wound up having a “Hemingway Part 1” Daiquiri and another fun cocktail, the “Dr. Frederick Fronkensteen” The daiquiris were excellent, a perfect blend of rum, lime juice, and simple syrup. Isn’t a true Hemingway daiquiri that includes maraschino liquor, grapefruit juice, and no simple syrup, but I think the name is just a play on books and names. It was outstanding...would highly recommend. They do have a very small snack selection, either nuts or mini corn dogs lol! We ordered the corn dogs, they were actually good, a few small bite sized pieces. We found this on our first night in Durango, and would up making it our end-of-day favorite hangout. Perfect ending for the day! Will I go back...most definitely! Would I recommend...absolutely!
Such a unique and amazing idea! We had such an amazing time and were able to meet the owner herself. She talked to us a little bit about the design and history behind her business. And we loved that she incorporated the old bookstore into the current book bar, and speakeasy. Highly recommend going here!
This place was very fun!! They have an extremely impressive drink list with homemade recipes and some awesome ways to serve the drinks. They also have several infused spirits and the owners are top notch. There is a barber shop in front and they have a true barber doing cuts. When asked where the bar was he said "sorry man, this is a barber shop" Beware, you have to have a password to get in to the bar. (Usually the first sentence on their website) Totally fun and will definitely be back.
Where to start - super cool place. Look up the password before arriving. We went during the evening and enjoyed some time to ourselves before the after dinner crowd arrived. Our bartender Enrique made our night - so glad we moved to the bar. The drinks were some of the most creative cocktails I’ve had. I had the cabbage patch kid (with cilantro and cabbage) and a caprese Martini (maybe 2). Husband had the Sam Elliot, which is a bourbon cocktail and an old-fashioned. This was definitely our favorite bar during our trip and we will be back.
Such a cool experience - please try it for yourself! The drinks and customer service were absolutely great. You do need a password to get in so make sure to look on their website before going ;)