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The Border had long been a popular watering hole in the University of Denver neighborhood, although it went through some dry spells — and then dried up altogether last May. But a trio of new owners, two of whom run Merchants Saloon in Oakland, California, took over the spot a few weeks ago and today the space will reopen as Merchants Mile High Saloon.
See also: The Border is back in business
General manager Jack Dwyer says the new owners wanted to give the place more of a “dark and sexy” club feel than its casual sports bar atmosphere, although the spot will show games when they’re on. And while the Border had been a DU hangout for more than three decades, Dwyer says they’re not just focusing on students, but nearby residents as well.
To that end, Merchants will host DJs and live music; Dwyer says he’s thinking about adding karaoke on Mondays and possibly having weekly Texas Hold ’em games as well. For now, Merchants will serve bar food, but it might start serving Mexican food in homage to the original Border.
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Merchants will be open from 2 p.m. to 2 a.m. daily.
