Santa Fe Serpent

Great Japanese speakeasy. High-quality drinks. Excellent music, spun on vinyl. Great vibe!

This place is other, in only the best ways. The space has been set up to be welcoming. From the scent in the air to the level of the lighting. A friend mentioned this place to me months ago. I regret that it took me 6 months to go. The vibe is one of deep yet welcoming chill. 5 out of 5 across the board. Bartender had that balance of awareness and being dialed in to let me have my space.

We stopped in for a couple of drinks one night. The vibe is super chill. The lighting and music really set the mood. The bartender was very friendly and knowledgeable, andmade some great cocktails. This would be a great place to grab a drink on a date.

This place is it's one vibe! They play vinyl records and the music selection is eclectic. My favorite thing is to enjoy this place on a weekday evening. A little less busy so you get to enjoy the music and cocktails and finger food! Highly recommend for anyone visiting Denver

This place is not for everyone and that is honestly part of the appeal. I came alone and was seated right away, most likely because it is a small space. The hostess or employee sat me down, and I took a seat at the bar. I was immediately given water and a menu, which felt easy and welcoming. This is not a “background music while you catch up” kind of bar. The music is the experience, inspired by Japanese listening bars. The sound is intentional, the vinyl selections feel curated, and the space encourages you to slow down and be present. Located in the Arts District of the Santa Fe neighborhood, ESP HiFi is walk in only, so arriving early is a good idea since it fills up quickly. The menu includes seasonal cocktails, highballs, natural wine, warm drinks, non alcoholic options, and small bites, with tastings focused on Japanese whiskey and mezcal. I had a walnut mezcal based cocktail, and ordered olives and Marcona almonds as a snack, all of which fit the vibe perfectly. They also offer a daily happy hour or “social hour” from 4 to 5pm. It was also fun watching the mixologist seamlessly switch between making drinks and DJing, which added to the experience. Yes, it is dark inside, but that is part of the atmosphere. The staff is not overly talkative, but the music is the whole point here, and that focus feels intentional. It is a popular spot and definitely gives hipster energy, but in a self aware, well executed way. If you are expecting a loud, social cocktail lounge, this is not it. If you appreciate good sound and a focused atmosphere, you will enjoy it. Not trying to please everyone. Just doing its thing and doing it well.