This past weekend was our second time at Punch Bowl Social, recently voted “Best New Bar” per Westword readers; it’s not difficult to see why. Offering a vast bar complete with punchbowl variety (as the name would state), Punch Bowl offers not only an excellent place to catch some drinks with friends, but also the opportunity to show ’em what your made of on their bowling lanes.

Snapshot of the lanes at Punch Bowl Social. Reserve yours quick – there’s usually a pretty long list of patrons waiting. Credit: Kirsten Ebey, August 2013

While drinks are moderately priced, the bar staff definitely knows their stuff – I’ve asked for a limeade before and received a glorious beverage, only second to Pinche Taco‘s infamous limeade.

Don’t let the punchbowls fool you – a couple of sweet, cute little punch glasses full of that vodka or tequila deliciousness, and you’ll be making friends while dancing on swanky couches to Salt N’ Pepa in no time, trust me (both of which I feel is a good time all around).

If you haven’t stepped inside of Punch Bowl, the place is massive – there’s a downstairs and upstairs bar, 8 bowling lanes (reserve at walk-in, or contact Punch Bowl Social for a private event), a patio, and a massive, front-of-the-house dining area. Plenty of space for different types of occasions, or simply getting out to enjoy the weekend. Located at 65 Broadway in Denver, you honestly can’t miss it when driving by.

From experience (mmmm punchbowls), I suggest cabbing it there; however, there is parking on the street and possibly limited space at the actual location. Another option is riding your bike as they do provide many o’ bike racks for all of our two-wheeled friends. Again, I suggest cab. Additional suggestion- drink punchbowls.

Our buddy Jeff taking one for the team and posing for DenverSpeax on the swanky couches inside Punch Bowl Social. Thanks, dude! Click on Jeff to visit Punch Bowl Social’s website. Pictured: Jeff D., Credit: Kirsten Ebey, August 2013

I must say – there’s really nothing like stepping into a bar with a decent bowling alley attached and not having to smell like you worked the fryer at McDonald’s all day. Punch Bowl Social offers a cool, and dare I say – classy – environment to chill. It’s a good atmosphere, with great old- and new-school music enjoyed by most (I’m judging by the amount of awesome dance moves I saw). And, it doesn’t reek of greasy bowling alley food and skunky beer – always a plus!

Stop by and give it a whirl – it’s definitely a good time. Grab some buddies, buy a punch bowl, and be merry. One more time?,… I suggest cab.

Hope to see you there!