Matt C.
Yelp
Hooch was a unanimous recommendation from service industry locals who actually live in Aspen. With a quick cross-check on Yelp, we knew we were in for a treat.
Vibes, vibes, vibes.
Entering the bar, you walk down a flight of stairs and turn right. You're met with an attentive hostess (who took our orders and ran our cocktails, give her a raise!) and a lowly lit room. The bar is meticulously organized, requiring a ladder to reach the top shelf selection. Chandeliers, small tables, couches, community tables, thrifted art, banging tunes. It's a Vibe with a capital V. Reminds me of one of my favorite bars in Dublin.
Ambiance is one thing, but do the cocktails live up to the hype? Even when priced at $20? (You've been warned in advance) Yes, the cocktails are great and worth the Aspen prices. Could they be a few bucks less? Yeah, sure. Like I said, you get what you pay for.
Chronic Tonic // Jin Jiji Gin, House Made Turmeric Ginger Syrup, Jack Rudy Tonic Syrup, Lemon, Strongwater CBD Bitters, Soda Water.
Qbroni // House Infused Coffee Rum, Campari, Antica Torino Vermouth, Amaro Cio Caro.
One thing I really love was the descriptive menu. Not just listing the ingredients and calling it quits. Each drink had a corresponding picture of what the cocktail looks like, I dig when bars go the extra mile in this fashion. Also, they gave their own mini description of the cocktail in layman's terms. Which are a pretty witty and persuasive read.
You can tell they have a sense of humor while also maintaining professional practices and standards. Escape the stereotypical Aspen scene by walking down to the Hooch basement. It's quite the trip.