Ace Gillett's Lounge is a bar in Fort Collins, CO, offering a distinctive blend of handcrafted cocktails, reimagined comfort foods, live jazz music, and spinning vinyl. Located at 239 South College Avenue, it serves a community of locals and visitors who appreciate a refined yet relaxed atmosphere. The lounge operates daily from 5:00 PM, with extended hours on weekends, and features a daily happy hour from 5:00 PM to 6:30 PM. It is also home to Ace Café, which operates from early morning until late afternoon, offering a separate but complementary experience. With a 4.30 rating based on 15 reviews, the venue has built a solid reputation among the customers it has served.
The venue traces its roots to 1923, celebrating over a century of community connection through food, drink, and music. The experience is designed as a sensory journey, where curated live music and vinyl selections enhance the flavor profiles of the handcrafted cocktails and shareable dishes. The menus feature hand-drawn diagrams of classic cocktails, detailing ingredients, preparation methods, historical context, and suggested food and music pairings. This thoughtful approach fosters connection and encourages guests to engage with both the food and the atmosphere. The space is described as an underground lounge that balances artistry with accessibility, creating an intimate social setting that welcomes all.
Situated on South College Avenue, Ace Gillett's Lounge is just a short walk from the Museum of Contemporary Art and the Aggie Theater, both within a 70-meter radius. It is also located less than a quarter mile from FedEx Office and The BIPOC Alliance, and a short distance from North College Avenue. The location places it at the heart of Fort Collins’ cultural and community hubs.
Known for its enduring reputation and consistent guest experience, Ace Gillett's Lounge stands out as a destination for those seeking a unique, music-infused evening in Fort Collins. Its long-standing tradition of blending hospitality with artistic expression continues to define its place in the city’s vibrant social scene.