Opening on December 1st, Pearl Divers emerges as a beacon in Denver’s LGBTQ+ landscape, filling the void left by the closing of Blush and Blu, the city’s only lesbian-specific bar. This pivotal event spurred local community member Dom Garcia to action. Recognizing the need for a new sapphic space, she leveraged social media to engage with potential patrons, probing their interests and gathering input on what they desired in a queer-friendly establishment. This grassroots effort quickly gained momentum, leading to a GoFundMe campaign to secure funding. During this transformative period, Dom met Ashlee Cassity, a seasoned Food and Beverage Director from StoneBridge. Their instant connection, which Dom affectionately describes as a “bromance,” solidified their partnership and fueled their shared vision for Pearl Divers, setting the foundation for a new community haven.
The Space
Nestled at the easternmost door of Your Mom’s House on 608 E 13th Ave, Pearl Divers creates an inviting atmosphere with its distinctive Tiki/speakeasy theme. The decor features an eclectic mix of new and nostalgic elements, including the cozy booths repurposed from the beloved Beauty Cafe and vibrant murals that add a touch of artistic flair. This location was not chosen by chance; Your Mom’s House has played a crucial role, offering significant support to ensure that Pearl Divers could launch swiftly and smoothly. Together, Dom and Ashlee have meticulously designed a space that honors the past while building a fresh, dynamic setting for Denver’s sapphic and broader queer community.
A Menu for Everyone
Although the full menu details are yet to be revealed, Pearl Divers is set to offer an appealing mix of vegan and non-vegan options. With Dom Garcia, a vegan, at the helm, the vegan selections are expected to be thoughtfully crafted, ensuring that these choices are far from an afterthought. The menu will feature a fusion of Pacific Island flavors, a nod to the Tiki theme, alongside traditional offerings. This culinary strategy is designed to satisfy hunger and enhance the overall experience, inviting guests to enjoy top-quality food in a space that celebrates every aspect of the community’s diversity.
Engaging with the Community
Dom Garcia and Ashlee Cassity have gone to great lengths to ensure Pearl Divers resonates with the local community’s needs and desires. They’ve spent considerable time engaging with community members, gathering feedback through conversations that span hours if not days. This active and responsive approach has helped shape the bar’s atmosphere and offerings to align closely with what the community truly wants. This deep level of engagement highlights their commitment to not just serving the community but being an integral part of it.
A Happy Hour Haven
Pearl Divers is set to redefine the Happy Hour experience in Denver with extended hours designed to accommodate more guests. Happy Hours at Pearl Divers will run from Tuesday to Friday, 4 to 7 PM, and all day on Sundays. This extended schedule is a thoughtful gesture aimed at giving more people the opportunity to enjoy the bar’s unique offerings in a relaxed, inclusive setting. Whether for a post-work unwind or a leisurely Sunday meet-up, Pearl Divers ensures that everyone can find the perfect time to visit and enjoy the atmosphere.
Author: Jeff Wilson
Jeff is one of the owners of GayDenver and one of its writers. He is a Denver transplant who loves the city and the proximity of the mountains. He is happily married to his husband and loves hiking with his furbaby Thayella.