Ship Tavern

Ship Tavern

321 17th St, Denver, CO 80202, United States

+1 303-312-8943

Restaurant, Bar
(1087)
Share Your Experience

About This Place

Nestled in the heart of downtown Denver, Ship Tavern is a quintessential blend of historic charm and contemporary culinary delight. This restaurant and bar offers an inviting escape from the city's hustle, transporting guests to a cozy, almost nostalgic space where the atmosphere echoes bygone days yet hums with vibrant energy. The decor evokes a ship captain’s quarters—rich wood tones, vintage accents, and a warm ambiance that immediately makes you feel at home.

Ship Tavern specializes in classic American fare with a refined twist, emphasizing hearty, comforting dishes that satisfy the deepest cravings. Among its most celebrated offerings are the rich and savory French Onion Soup, the indulgent Open-Faced 8oz Steak Sandwich, and the tender, perfectly cooked Prime Rib—available in lunch and dinner portions that are nothing short of lavish, accompanied by horseradish cream, au jus, and seasonal vegetables or crispy fries. Fans of seafood will appreciate the creamy, flavorful Clam Chowder and the delightfully crispy Fish & Chips, while those seeking lighter fare can enjoy the fresh Tavern Wedge Salad or the Brown Palace Cobb Salad, both delivering bright, crunchy satisfaction in every bite.

The menu is thoughtfully crafted to offer something for everyone, from the indulgent Barrel Aged Old Fashioned and expertly mixed Martini or Bloody Mary cocktails to shareable delights such as the Cheese & Charcuterie Board or the irresistible Truffle Fries topped with parmesan and truffle aioli. The lunch selection features tantalizing sandwiches like the Downtown Club Sandwich with rosemary ham and turkey, the spice-kissed Chopped Italian Sub, and even a decadent Wagyu Burger that satisfies burger enthusiasts looking for a premium experience.

What truly sets Ship Tavern apart is its commitment to an immersive dining experience that goes beyond the plate. Patrons frequently mention the warmth and attentiveness of the staff, with bartenders like Caleb L. going above and beyond despite busy shifts, creating a sense of genuine hospitality that enhances every visit. Customers rave about the atmosphere as well—historical and cozy with a touch of old-world glamour—where live jazz performances elevate evenings and the ambiance invites lingering over every course and cocktail.

One diner perfectly captured the spirit of Ship Tavern, picturing a post-prohibition era scene with friends gathered around sipping barrel-aged whiskey and sharing stories—this restaurant truly embodies that timeless feeling. Whether you’re escaping a scorching summer day, indulging in their perfectly seasoned onion rings, or settling in for a prime rib feast, Ship Tavern offers an authentic, soulful dining journey marked by quality, history, and genuine care.

For anyone seeking an exceptional downtown Denver spot that combines iconic dishes, classic cocktails, and an unforgettable atmosphere steeped in tradition and comfort, Ship Tavern is a destination worth returning to again and again.

Service options
Takeaway Dine-in Delivery
Highlights
Fast service Great beer selection Great cocktails Great wine list Live music Sport
Popular for
Lunch Dinner Solo dining
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park Wheelchair-accessible entrance Wheelchair-accessible seating Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Offerings
Alcohol Beer Cocktails Coffee Comfort food Happy-hour drinks Happy-hour food Late-night food Small plates Spirits Wine
Dining options
Brunch Lunch Dinner Dessert Seating Table service
Amenities
Bar on site Toilet Wi-Fi Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
Casual Cosy Historic Trendy Upmarket
Crowd
Family friendly Groups LGBTQ+ friendly Locals Tourists Transgender safe space
Planning
Dinner reservations recommended Accepts reservations
Payments
Cheques Credit cards Debit cards NFC mobile payments
Children
Good for kids High chairs Kids' menu
Parking
Paid street parking Parking Valet parking

Opening Hours

  • Monday
    11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
  • Tuesday
    11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
  • Wednesday
    11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
  • Thursday
    11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
  • Friday
    11:00 AM - 11:00 PM
  • Saturday
    11:00 AM - 11:00 PM
  • Sunday
    11:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Map & Directions

Visitor Reviews

  • D Scott Cook
    1 month ago

    This is not a review of their food as a whole. Boss Lady and I came in as a respite from the 101 F heat that wanted to unalive us. The joint looks like Captain Black Beard will walk in at any minute. We ordered drinks and some onion rings (to tie us over for dinner). They were really good and seasoned nicely. We'll definitely come back to have prime rib and assorted accoutrement.

  • Kenny Higgins
    1 month ago

    The food was phenomenal! The service could have been much better, especially considering the location and price. Forgetting drinks, not getting the order right on a 2 person table, etc are just things you would think this place would be better than. It's a 5 star location, 5 star food, but 2 star service.

  • Brent Ainley
    1 month ago

    Went for lunch and enjoyed every minute of our experience. The decor, atmosphere, and food were excellent. The bartender, Caleb L. Was on point. He was slammed but made sure every patron seated at the bar was well taken care of. Highly recommended.

  • Lauralee Thomas
    2 month ago

    One of the BEST experinces in Downtown! Forgot I was deep in the city. Beautiful. Historic. Caught an amazing jazz band Saturday night! Cozy & Quaint. Them chairs... I could sit there all night! Staff - On point. Didn't miss a beat. The small tavern feel was so refreshing. Food absolutely amazing. I will say their menu is seasonal - as you may not see everything the online menu shows, but easy to adapt. Delicious. The Bartender. Bravissimo *Parking - street parking is a gamble, but a block away is a secure parking garage $8 on the weekends. *There is valet as well.

  • Robert Ference
    3 month ago

    Got to love the nostalgic atmosphere of this iconic establishment. I could just imagine sitting around post-prohibition smoking cigars and drinking the latest batch of whiskey straight from the barrel. This is a classy place to get steak or the famous prime rib and sip on a few Manhattan's. Would recommend the Caesar salad to start with. The presentation was unique or maybe just old school. I really liked the hand hewn wood beams in the ceiling that made me feel like I was sitting in the bow of a ship.

  • Emilio Recio
    4 month ago

    I wish there was a 4+ (because I never give 5 stars, but this one is 4.9999999999...) I thought it was too fancy of a place for the likes of me, but once i got past the main hall and into the pub it was an excellent warm atmosphere, much brighter than expected/wanted (YMMV). The food was amazing, and drink choices much better than expected. While I went in with a list of my go-to items for lunch, a brief conversation with the bartender on the options and I was like "oh, heck, sure, when in Rome". I was not disappointed... in fact, very satisfied with the selections. I recommend, highly; go in with a blank slate and hearty appetite - i had to get a doggie bag, LOL. I also never do these reviews, so I guess that's saying something.

Share Your Experience

Your Rating

Discover What Travelers Love About This Place

Real experiences, honest impressions, and insights shared by the Wherevi community to help you explore with confidence.