Dust off your boots Colorado Springs — a cowboy cocktail lounge is headed for downtown. With a projected opening in February 2026, Counterfeit Cowboy will join the lineup of lounges created by hospitality duo Stephon Black and Susan Gates, owners of Bloom Ultra Lounge, Lazy Susan’s, Samich Shack and Black Coffee.
Black and Gates aim for a fresh blend of Western fun, style and affordability wrapped in the cleanliness and comfort guests love. “We want our guests to have fun in a clean and safe environment that isn’t expensive,” Black says.
While lounge concepts often assume a high price, Counterfeit Cowboy plans to keep the tab easy. As Black puts it, they’re building “a high-standard dive bar: the kind of place people want to go back to without feeling priced out.”
Inside, guests can expect rustic Western nostalgia mixed with modern farmhouse polish. Cowboy hats will top string lights, and antique homestead accents will line the walls. For fans of Bloom or Lazy Susan’s, keep your eyes peeled. You may spot an Easter egg hidden in the décor.
The menu will feature classic country meals with hearty BBQ favorites like smoked brisket, pulled pork and hot dogs paired with mac ‘n’ cheese, baked beans, coleslaw and — as Black guarantees — “We’ll definitely have cornbread.”
The late-night menu will invite playful combos, especially with the hot dogs. “We’ll focus on what people want to add. Even baked beans on their hot dog if that’s what they want,” he says. Specialty menu items will be a Mexican-style BBQ twist with smoked carne asada and Campfire Queso.
Drinks will stay approachable too. “Your Old Fashioned won’t be $17 or served in a plastic solo cup,” Black says. Expect $5 Breckenridge vodka and Benchmark whiskey shots, $5 wines and premium cold ones like their own Counterfeit Cowboy Lager, Coors, PBR and Corona. Fun lounge surprises like “flip a coin for a free drink” will add to the experience.
Counterfeit Cowboy will also serve as a gathering spot for private events up to 75 guests, from corporate mixers to wedding celebrations. With its polished Western aesthetic and commitment to cleanliness, Black wants guests to feel confident hosting even upscale occasions.
Above all, Counterfeit Cowboy aims to deliver an immersive, hometown-country experience. “We want people to walk in and feel that warm, welcoming, hometown-country hospitality,” Black says.
28 S. Tejon St. Unit A
