Savor the Season in One of Denver’s Most Charming Neighborhoods

Photo: Courtesy The Berkeley

STAY

“Cozy, clean, convenient,” says owner/operator Brooks Ferring when asked to describe his hotel, The Berkeley. But the property, a combination of a five-star hotel and an Airbnb, is actually much more than those three words. Centrally located in the historic Tennyson Street neighborhood in North Denver, the 17-room boutique hotel is a vacation-rental-style property, with contactless check-in and no front desk staff or restaurants (although Bakery Four is on the first floor). Each meticulous room/suite is complete with a full kitchen, living area, washer-dryer and spacious bedrooms with high-quality custom finishes, plus most rooms have balconies.

The whimsical artwork, colorful wallcoverings and bespoke soft goods make the rooms feel modern and upscale: It’s the complete opposite of a cookie-cutter hotel chain. “I love this neighborhood, and I wanted to create a space where people can come and enjoy Tennyson Street to see more of Denver beyond downtown,” says Ferring. “It was really important to me that this hotel has a strong sense of place and curated design that’s just as unique as the area for which it’s named.” The Berkeley offers a prime location with a bustling, up-and-coming restaurant/bar scene to give guests the option to go out or simply unwind on the chill rooftop with a glass of vino.

The Berkeley Hotel, 4160 Tennyson St., Denver

By Rebecca Gart

EAT

Photo: Marc Piscotty

The Secret Garden Bar & Café is tucked into the carriage house adjacent to the historic Tears McFarlane House. The entire property, owned by City Street Investors, was recently refurbished and is available to host events. The eatery was the brainchild of neighborhood focus groups confirming that a spot for coffee or a glass of wine, along with delectable light menu selections, would be a desirable amenity.

“Our menu was designed by our talented culinary folks and is based on that of a traditional French café,” says Joe Vostrejs, principal at City Street Investors. “Pastries are baked and delivered fresh daily by our team at Suzette Bakery & Café.” Morning bites include sweets, breakfast burritos and seasonal quiche accompanied by coffees and teas. An array of soups, salads and sharables is available after 11 a.m. Choose from specialties like whipped feta, smoked trout dip, and stone fruit bruschetta, or savor cheese and charcuterie or a panini. Pair your meal with wine, beer or a cocktail from the full bar. The Secret Garden is open daily from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Happy hour is Monday-Thursday 3-5 p.m.

The Secret Garden Bar & Café, 1290 N. Williams St., Denver

By Anne Hebert