Back in March I attended a play on Larimer at a little theatre called the Paragon.  A couple of months ago I tried to look them up to see what was on the playbill, and I couldn’t find any information.  After a bit of digging I learned it had closed its doors.  I was a little bummed to hear, as it was but a 15 minute walk from my place and something fun to do on a Saturday or Sunday afternoon.  My disappointment lasted all of about 5 minutes, because I then found out about a new brewery opening up in its spot.  Yes!  Another new brewery in Denver, and close to me as well!  And, while not officially open regular hours yet, I had the pleasure of checking out Our Mutual Friend Malt & Brew last weekend.

Our Mutual Friend (OMF), 2810 Larimer, picked an excellent location.  That area is already home to some other great drinking establishments: Larimer Lounge, The Matchbox, Meadowlark, Mile High Spirits, etc. So a brewery is the perfect addition to the neighborhood.  I walked over on a gorgeous day and was really looking forward to trying OMF.  The taproom is bright and comfortable with a glass garage door that opens up to their patio.  They had about 6 or 7 beers tapped, and I ordered an IPA.  There was an issue with the carbonation at the time and it was pouring somewhat flat.  So instead I got a Huckleberry Roasters Coffee Stout.  OMG, OMF!  (Sorry—I couldn’t resist).  I have to say that is one of the absolute best coffee stouts I’ve ever had, and I’m a big fan of coffee beers.  I was actually quite glad the IPA wasn’t available, as I then realized I needed a little caffeine to pick me up that afternoon.  So I ordered another.  It is extremely flavorful; there’s a lot of coffee there, which is just the way I like it.  Soon after, the IPA was ready to go so I had one of those.  They aren’t messing around with their IPA, folks.  Weighing in at 7.1% ABV and 116 IBUs, using all Chinook hops, that’s one hoppy drink right there.  I really enjoyed it.  And it probably tasted even hoppier to me at that moment since I’d just switched from dark beer, so that was a bonus.  I was very impressed with both of the beers.

I hope Our Mutual Friend is open regular hours soon; I’m ready to go back!  It’s a nice place with great beer and friendly staff.  What more could you ask for?!  Thank you, OMF, and I can’t wait to join you again soon.