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Best of the Boat: Best Bar — Sunpie’s Bistro

Sunpie's riverside setting helped it earn top bar honors this year.

See the complete list of 2017 Best of the Boat winners here.

Maybe it’s the Hurricanes. Maybe it’s the riverside tables. Maybe it’s even that confounded Ring Toss game where you try to swing and hook a metal circle on the far wall. Whatever it is, people like it, which is why Sunpie’s Bistro, at 735 Yampa St., took this year’s Best Bar honors.

Founded by former owners Mike and Colleen Miller, who gave it its New Orleans spin, the bar was purchased in 2012 by brothers John and Jarett Duty, along with partners Chad and Sarah Gagliano.

“We always liked what they had done with it,” John says, touting its relaxed and simple atmosphere. “It seems to work, and it didn’t seem prudent to really change anything. It reminds me of some of the places we used to go to in Texas.”

Chad says its success owes itself to its employees, outdoor, riverside setting and evenhanded prices. “We’re for everybody — we accept all ages young and old,” he says. “Our prices are reasonable and the staff is the best in town. It’s for people looking for a casual fun time.”

That fun time is often fueled by its trademark Hurricanes, a 20-ounce mixture of rum and juices. Offsetting its effects is Sunpie’s food, including its best-selling Cochon de lait, Shrimp Po Boy and Gumbo.

“I believe our overall success comes from our staff and local patrons,” he says.

Indeed, many a customer has equated it to Cheers of television fame, where everyone knows your name.

 


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