The Pioneer Bar

Weirdly hostile environment, mainly from one of the workers. We were carded for our initial drinks and the drinks were great! Prices were also very good! Our second drink one of the workers was very rude saying we could only grab another drink after we finish our drink we just bought. I’ve never had an issue at any other bar with buying drinks for my friends so this was odd. He came over and asked for my ID which is fine he’s just doing his job. He checks with a light/black light which like thanks for thinking I’m younger than I actually look. Just a bit odd since he walked outside of the bar area solely to check my ID at the table we’ve been sitting at for about an hour now at this point. It’s 10:30 PM so it’s already 21+ only. We get our third drink and I’m asked for my ID again. Now I understand it’s busy and you don’t remember faces but another worker clearly remembered and asked if this drink was for me or for “the person sitting next to me” (which mind you was ID’d twice already at this point, and also had her ID checked with a black light). They’ve ID’d everyone at the table we’re sitting at twice at this point. If underaged drinking is really this much of a problem then maybe hire a bouncer or have a stamp system? I don’t know, I don’t work at bars so I’m not an expert don’t take my opinion, but this seems very inefficient and weirdly hostile. Again, great vibes other wise, the prices and drinks were great, the workers were just doing their jobs I understand but there’s a way to talk to people and not be rude about it. If this was just a misunderstanding, miscommunication, or a bad work day, I get it man. Things happen. I wouldn’t say I’d never go back, but I don’t really see a reason to if it’s going to be this much of a hassle to buy drinks for myself and for my friends.

It's a fun hangout spot for a single beer. The food was not great... Subpar at best.

Our PTO from Bradley international school recently hosted our auction fundraiser at The Pioneer and it was a HUGE success. Carrie the GM bent over backwards to help us make our event run smoothly. She was easy to work with and not only provided an amazing venue for us, but she even reached out to contacts of hers to facilitate donations. We have already agreed that we MUST host our event there again next year. Many thanks to Carrie and the entire staff at The Pioneer! Looking forward to next year!

Stayed at the Sonder across the street for 4 weeks and this place quickly become our favorite place to eat in the city! The tacos are the best tacos I've ever had! I tried the rice bowl it's awesome as well but if ur a taco fan .. . .it's where you wanna be! Great atmosphere and awesome staff!

Certified awesome. Took the family here for a World Cup game and lunch and left full and happy. This place is old and worn, but in the absolute best way. Part college dive bar, part Irish pub, part outdoor dining, all ambiance! The food and beers are the best way to enjoy the DU area and all it's drunken history. Can't wait to go back!!!