When the downtown scene grows tiresome — too loud, too crowded, too expensive — it’s nice that there’s a place like the Black Crown Piano Lounge (1446 S. Broadway) not far away.
The Black Crown calls an old house its home, a space formerly known as Café Cero. The front of the house is an antique shop, Crown Accents, that blends in nicely with the neighbors. Walk past the front, through a table-filled courtyard, and the bar area greets new visitors.
Grab a drink and head off to explore: The house is filled with comfortable couches and chairs. Behind the bar is a large living room with a huge couch and low coffee table, plus a few more seats for smaller groups.
At the moment, it’s decorated in over-the-top Christmas regalia, including an upside-down Christmas tree in the corner. Taking it all in from the sofa, it really feels like sitting in someone’s living room, perhaps that of a particularly Christmas-obsessed relative.
Across from the bar and through a set of doors is the two-tiered piano room. Guests are encouraged to get cozy, raise a glass and sing along with the piano players — or, if they’re so inclined, head upstairs for some darts. Just like in the living room, the décor is elaborate, almost baroque, creating a pleasantly weird atmosphere. (If you’ve ever been to the Artisan in Las Vegas, you have an idea.)
The Black Crown is gay-friendly, but everyone is welcome — it’s just a nice place to gather. The best part: You can talk inside the Black Crown without yelling. For a downtown dweller, that’s a welcome change.
And now, the news: Starting tonight, the Crown is serving a short menu of tapas, including items like prosciutto-wrapped asparagus, bruschetta, cheese plates and more. Stop in and have a bite.
Thanksgiving revelry begins a day early at “The Ruckus Before Thanksgiving” at Chloe (1445 Market St.).
The evening features a fashion show by Colorado-based Ruckus Apparel, plus raffles and giveaways. DJ Manos provides the soundtrack. Reserve a table by calling 720-383-8447. (Just remember: Even if you have the day off, it’s no fun being hung over on Turkey Day. Your dinner companions need you.)
Is there someone in your life who loves beer? Is “love” not a strong enough word for their devotion? They could become Wynkoop Brewing Co.’s 2012 Beerdrinker of the Year.
The Wynkoop’s 16th annual contest searches far and wide for the nation’s most passionate beer maniac. This person must not only demonstrate an obsession with brews and brewing, but possess a near-mystical desire to learn about, enjoy and discuss beer.
As an example, the 2011 winner, Phil Farrell of Georgia, has tasted beer in every European country, all 50 states and every U.S. territory. In 2010, he logged 11,000 miles on his RV. He is a true seeker.
If you or someone you know is hopelessly in love with beer, put together a beer-résumé detailing the entrant’s 2011 beer experiences, beer philosophy, beer evangelism and knowledge of beer history. Résumés are due by Dec. 31 to beerdrinker@wynkoop.com; learn more at .
Shows. There are plenty of opportunities to get wild this weekend. It’s a warmup for the party-hearty season ahead.
Tonight, Bar Standard (1037 Broadway) welcomes Minneapolis DJ Chuck Love to its weekly “Welcome to the Pleasure Dome” house-music blowout. He’s an unconventional mix-master who plays instruments — live — along with his own beats.
Then, on Saturday, hip-hop hero DJ Premier spins at City Hall (1144 Broadway). Premier made his name as the instrumental half of the legendary duo Gang Starr, creating his signature, jazz-influenced, scratch-heavy sound. He’ll be joined by turntable champion DJ Vajra and DJ MU$A. Tickets are $10 at .
Beta (1909 Blake St.) hosts a Saturday set by perennial favorite DJ Jazzy Jeff, and Wednesday brings a special appearance by celebrated hip-hop MC Talib Kweli.
Jazzy Jeff tickets are $10; Kweli tickets are $25. Buy tickets in advance at .
