Jack’s in Lone Tree Prohibition-era Speakeasy
By Jamie Lynn Miller
NAMED FOR THE UNDERGROUND bars that skirted liquor laws in the 1920s, the Blind Tiger, nestled just beneath the steakhouse, brings jazz, blues, small bites and New Orleans-inspired cocktails to the basement—walk-ins only, in true speakeasy style.
Following the January fire, steakhouse owner Steve Lockton spent several months considering the potential of the expansive space. “The fire gave us the chance to reevaluate,” said Darryl Shoemake, president of Jack’s Modern Steakhouse. “When we first opened, we noticed guests wanted somewhere to go when the bar and dining room were full. And we had this incredible downstairs space with so much potential!”
Initial ideas included a private event area and a backup bar for busy nights at the restaurant. Inspiration grew, however, into something big enough to transform the space. Designer Effie Kavadas reimagined the nearly 2,000-squarefoot space into a modern-day take on the secret hideaways down alleys or backstreets that only those in the know could find. Catering to the grown-up crowd, the Blind Tiger, Lone Tree’s signature speakeasy, has become its own destination.
“Denver as a whole skews a little younger,” says Shoemake. “Our target is to provide a vibe that appeals to the 40-plus age group, looking for more of a laid-back atmosphere.”
During Prohibition, the term “blind tiger” referred to underground establishments that circumvented local liquor restrictions. Today’s Blind Tiger requires neither password nor secret knock. “Just a smile to enter” is its calling card. And the contrast with Jack’s upstairs, he shares, is intentional. More polished and focused on fine steaks, seafood, and elevated service, the Blind Tiger provides a warmer, more relaxed, and more intimate setting, replete with music and flavors that capture the mystique of that bygone era.
On the cocktail front, both names and tastes enhance the ambiance, from the Tokyo Fog, featuring sake, elderflower, grapefruit, and a touch of lemon, to the Jack’s Old Fashioned, crafted from double rye and black walnut bitters. Winner of the 2024 People’s Choice Award for Best Whiskey Cocktail in Colorado at Stranahan’s Barrel Royale, the Soft N’ Smokey, made with house barrel-aged Stranahan’s Blue Peak infused with apricot, toasted pecan syrup, and black walnut bitters, wowed collectivepalates at the Stranahan’s Barrel Royale. And because any true speakeasy has its secret menu, the Blind Tiger’s toasts other hidden locales and milieus: try the Category 5, a delicious nod to the boozy Hurricane, or the Paris Contraband, made with gin, Chambord, and sparkling wine.
To complement the rich libations, the raw bar boasts oysters, dry-aged sashimi, sushi rolls, sashimi tacos—even Sicilian arancini.
Stop in for a pre- or post-dinner cocktail or a spur-of-the-moment bite with friends or complement the era-themed decor with your own speakeasy ensemble for a night of music and merriment.
BLIND TIGER
9155 Park Meadows Dr.
Lone Tree
720.769.8575
jacksmodernsteakhouse.com
