15th St. Tavern, resurrectedsort of
If you ask experienced local music fans in the Denver area about the 15th St. Tavern, you’ll run into some interesting paradoxes. For example, while they may describe the holes in the wall and the overbearing smell, they’ll do so with such an air of reverence that it may sound like they actually enjoyed it. There’s a simple reason for that: they did. The 15th St. Tavern was renowned for its chaotic punk shows, full of fire hazards and questionable behavior. For those who remember, there’s good news: the bar is back (sort of) in the form of the new Rockaway Tavern.The old Tavern closed in 2007 when its location was demolished. Owners Mykel Martinez and Kris Sieger, together with 3 Kings Tavern owner Jim Norris, have opened new venue the Rockaway Tavern, and they say that the site will represent the spirit of both locally-legendary taverns. However, Martinez emphasizes the difference between this project and their previous ones, telling the Denver Westword that “this is ours. We’re gutting it. We’re putting our floor plan down” and building it back up into their personal vision.Martinez plays in bands Black Lamb and Grease Machine, so he’ll be in charge of attracting bands and making sure they’re treated fairly. Norris is the one with experience in promotion and retail. Together, they aim to make the Rockaway a national hotspot, attracting larger groups while still keeping that local flavor. From the look of things, they’re off to the right start. Since its opening on August 13, the tavern has been making a name for itself with drink specials (8 bottomless Bloody Marys and mimosas), trivia events, karaoke, movies, and of course bands. Every Monday is Punk Rock Night, with no cover and 1 PBRs.So far, reception has been positive, judging by the Rockaway’s Facebook page. If you’re in the area, stop by to see what all the fuss is about.