It’s hard to believe it’s finally over. After two years of debates, rumors and outright squabbling, the long election season is a thing of the past.
The tension just kept ratcheting up — by Election Day, it was hard to do anything but obsessively check poll tallies and yearn for the results to come in and end it all.
That’s why this weekend calls for supreme relaxation. Screaming and shouting are out — there’s been enough of that. It’s time to breathe easy, sip on a drink.
Here are a few places to check out in the quest for a little meaningful downtime. Keep the list for any weekend when you want to keep it on the mellow side.
The tagline for Five Degrees (1475 Lawrence St.; 720-260-7505) says it all: “Perfectly chilled.” Just off Larimer Square, this spacious lounge begs guests to have a seat and ignore the outside world.
Comfortable booths line the windows in the front room, with more seating and a lovely patio out back. If you’re in a martini mood, there’s upward of 40 on the drink menu.
The kitchen is called Amuse, and serves all sorts of entrees, appetizers, salads and more. It’s a great after-work steam valve, with $4 drinks and deals on small plates.
A trip to Beatrice and Woodsley (38 S. Broadway; 303-777-3505) is like a civilized picnic in the mountains, minus the gas money. Real tree trunks are the restaurant’s “walls” — peeking through the window, it looks like a small forest with tables and comfy seats.
Have a seat at the bar or grab a table if you can. The staff is warm and welcoming, whether you’re just in for a couple of glasses of wine or a full meal. Beatrice and Woodsley is its own, weird little universe, and a peaceful one at that.
Another highly civilized, but far cheaper, option is the stalwart My Brother’s Bar (2376 15th St.; 303-455-9991). One of Denver’s oldest bars, My Brother’s is an oasis for folks who just want to talk.
Classical music — and only classical music — plays softly in the background while patrons chat. There are no TVs, so bring good pals or a favorite book. Bring an appetite, too — the burgers are made-to-order and fantastic.
Should you still want to discuss politics, there’s sure to be someone in My Brother’s friendly crowd who’s willing to rehash the week’s events.
The P.S. Lounge (3416 E. Colfax Ave.; 303-320-1200) is another legendary, old- school hangout. Every woman gets a rose and everyone gets a free Alabama Slammer shot when they place their first order.
If that’s not enough to put you in a pleasant mood, the jukebox is filled with good-time staples, from Tom Jones to the Clash to Prince. Marvel at the P.S.’s vintage decor and check out the menu from Enzo’s End pizza next door. Just don’t forget cash, since P.S. Lounge doesn’t take cards. (Old-school, remember?)
Of course, relaxation doesn’t necessarily have to mean sitting around and musing over drinks. In Lakewood, Greenfields (3355 S. Yarrow St.; 303-989-9820) is a convivial place to eat some grub, watch the game and shoot pool.
Pool can be important if stress relief is in order. Don’t put too many quarters down — play for fun — and it’s supremely soothing.
And if you’re still harboring election angst, just picture your political enemy’s face on the cue ball. Hit him in the imaginary nose and take a deep breath.
You have four years to recover.
Rock on.
Get ready for three big shows coming up this week.
On Saturday, British house DJ Seb Fontaine visits Vinyl (1082 Broadway) on a swing through the United States. Presale tickets are $10 on .
Over in LoDo, Beta (1909 Blake St.) welcomes DJ Dan on Saturday, then The Crystal Method rocks the house Thursday.
Tickets for both Beta shows are $10 at .
