Denver's Latest Restaurant/Bar Openings and Closings

The Denver dining scene can sometimes feel like a revolving door with new restaurants/bars coming and going before you even have a chance to Google their menu. It can be dizzying to keep up with, and we don’t want you to miss a single meal. Here are just some of the newest openings we're excited about — and a few of the latest closures we're mourning (RIP) 👇

January 2026

New to the Scene

Magic Noodle House | 1400 East 17th Ave. (City Park West)

Opened Dec. 11

Judging by the viral attention this new Uptown noodle house is gaining on social media, the hand-pulled pasta strands on offer here are exactly what the restaurant’s name implies — pure, delicious magic!

Johnny Bechamel’s | 81 South Pennsylvania St. (Speer)

Opened Dec. 12

This new neighborhood red sauce joint is a scrumptious byproduct of two other Denver dining faves — Dio Mio and Redeemer Pizza. The menu boasts pizzas, pastas, and other Italian-inspired surprises. (Can you say prosciutto-topped Parmesan-filled donuts?)

American Lore | 3965 Tennyson St. (Berkeley)

Opening Jan. 9

“No-frills cocktails, $4 beer in frosty mugs, and free bar snacks” is what you can expect at this new Saloon-style whiskey bar on Tennyson. Not only a Western-inspired watering hole, American Lore will double as a retail shop featuring hats and hat-molding services from the popular local Hats by Parker Thomas.

Adventure Time Bar | 101 N Broadway (Baker)

Opening Jan. 15

Adventure Time Bar is exactly what it sounds like: Part bar, part adventure! It will feature new themes on a rotating basis. Guests will purchase tickets for a 90-minute visit that includes a welcome cocktail, a souvenir, and an entirely unique immersive experience. The debut theme is a “futuristic cyberpunk world” inspired by the likes of “Blade Runner” and “The Matrix.”

Last Chance to Visit

Honor Farm | 1526 Blake St. (Union Station)

Closing Jan. 10

The “haunted spirit house” in the old Blake Street Vault building has run its course (and its lease). It will be closing for good this Friday. The bar’s popular second-floor sibling concept, the gay tiki bar Hell or High Water, will also leave the space, but reopen as a stand-alone concept at 3542 Walnut Street, next door to Tracks in RiNo. Owner Lexi Healy promises the future incarnation will be “Still unholy. Still phallic. Still filthy as ever.”

The Pepper Pod | 530 Fir St. (Hudson, CO)

Closing Jan. 12

The small town of Hudson (~30 minutes northeast of Denver proper) is bidding goodbye to local dining legend the Pepper Pod, which first opened 114 years ago in 1913. “This decision did not come easily,” owners wrote in a Facebook post announcing the closure, citing health concerns within the family that has operated the restaurant for nearly half a century.

Goldspot Brewing Co. | 4970 Lowell Blvd. (Regis)

Closing Feb. 1

Celebrated as a gathering space for women and the LGBTQ community, this 10-year-old taproom will pour its final beers at the end of this month as the building’s owners prepare to sell the space. But this isn’t the end of Goldspot, which will continue distributing beers and hosting events as it decides “what comes next.”

RIP

November 2025

New to the Scene

Boombots Pasta Shop | 2647 W 38th Ave. (Sunnyside)

Opened Nov. 8

This new venture from the owners of Odie B’s — a local cult-favorite — promises to be “stupid good,” with off-the-wall takes on pasta, like a Red Chili and Butternut Squash Risotto or a Smoked Duck and Green Chili Lumache.

Ma’s Kitchen | 1514 York St. (City Park)

Opened Nov. 1

Chinese dim sum and noodle dishes are the star of the show at this new neighborhood joint off East Colfax Ave. The spot is co-owned by Xi Yong Zheng who also operates Okinawa Japanese next door, a 15-year-old Colfax fave. Westword reports the twice-cooked pork stir-fried noodles and the Singapore butter prawns are both solid orders 👌

Anna’s Donuts & Burritos | 2120 S Broadway (Rosedale)

Opened Nov. 11

A delicious Greenwood Village secret is out of the bag — and opening a brand new location on South Broadway. With perfectly glazed donuts and generously loaded breakfast burritos, Anna’s hits all your sweet and savory breakfast needs.

Insee Father Noodles House | 1700 Platte St. (Highland)

Opened Nov. 9

This new Platte Street noodle house is the fast-casual venture from popular local favorite Daughter Thai Kitchen & Bar located right next door. Decorated with family portraits and tokens from Thailand, the space evokes cozy nostalgia vibes, complemented by Thai comfort food.

Returning Favorites

The Bakehouse | 2550 East Colfax Ave. (Congress Park)

Reopened Oct. 25

Following a two-year hiatus, Sắp Sửa’s ultra-popular Saturday morning bakery is back and bringing in the crowds. Owner Anna Nguyen originally opened the bakery in 2023 following the restaurant’s debut, but she put the project on pause to focus on Sắp Sửa’s rising claim to fame. Now, with new pastry chef Korinna Mahan onboard, Denverites can once again get their fix of creative baked goods, including the likes of dirty chai sticky buns, banana coconut rum cakes, and sesame chocolate babka 🤤

Biker Jim’s | 3200 Pecos St. (Highland)

Opened Nov. 9

Denver’s favorite vendor of exotic sausages is back … again! (Don’t call it a comeback though.) “Biker Jim” Pittenger is taking his famed jalapeño elk dogs and unique brunch bites to Avanti Food & Beverage. “Jim’s food has always embodied the creative, independent spirit of Denver dining, and we couldn’t be more excited to give him a platform for his next chapter,” said Avanti’s director of operations.

RIP

October 2025

New to the Scene

Tía’s Taqueria | 1495 S Holly St. (Virginia Village)

Opened Oct. 3

This family operation comes to Denver from the Bay Area. With more than two decades of taqueria success along the coast of California, Tia’s is bringing familia vibes to a retrofitted former laundromat with deliciously simple tacos, burritos, and bean and rice platters — and a big screen TV.

Quad Side Tavern | 900 Auraria Pkwy (Auraria)

Opened Oct. 15

Food and beer have returned to the historic Tivoli building on Auraria Campus after Tivoli Brewing Co. moved out last December. Though it will no longer house a brewery, the menu will offer pub fare and a rotating tap list. Auraria officials are calling it the “kickoff to … a larger transformation on campus.”

Malinche Audio Bar | 1541 Platte St. (Highland)

Opened Oct. 13

Inspired by listening bars in Japan, this new venture from Michelin-acclaimed Chef Jose Avila has been proclaimed “undeniably cool.” As far as food goes, you can expect a small menu of unique dishes blending Japanese and Mexican influences (don’t skip the inspired dessert of nixtamalized corn custard topped with pear pearls and salmon roe). But the real draw is Chef Avila’s collection of vintage Mexican vinyl and his personal line of mezcal.

Last Chance to Visit

Brider | 1644 Platte St. (Highland)

Closing Oct. 23

The rotisserie chicken brainchild of locally renowned chefs Bryan Dayton and Steve Redzikowski (of Acorn, Corrida, and Oak at Fourteenth fame) is closing its doors for good this month, ending a decade of service. The announcement, which was made on the restaurant’s Instagram account, did not elaborate on the decision to shutter.

Pete’s University Park Cafe | 2345 E Evans Ave. (University)

Closing Nov. 9

Denver is losing one of its legendary Pete Contos diners (from the same family as Pete’s Kitchen and Pete’s Satire Lounge) next month. The greasy spoon near DU’s campus is calling it quits — like so many other local restaurants — over soaring food and labor costs. “The goal has always been a good plate, at a reasonable price, so that anybody could afford it,” says Pete’s daughter, Nikki Phillips.

Ghost Donkey | 1750 Wewatta St. #140 (Union Station)

Closing Oct. 19

The speakeasy chain specializing in mezcal is just the latest loss in an area of high turnover behind Union Station. Management cited dwindling sales, which apparently nosedived from as much as $10,000 a night to only $800.

RIP

August 2025

New to the Scene

Trybal | 1670 Champa St. (Central Business District)

Opening soon

Intimate and elevated, this sleek new speakeasy aims to educate as much as immerse visitors in Africa’s history and culture through food, drinks, art, and entertainment meant to create a “high-end African experience.”

Molino Chido | 2501 Dallas St. (Aurora)

Opening this fall

Michelin-honored chefs Michael Diaz de Leon (formerly of Brutø) and Tommy Lee (of Uncle and Hop Alley) are going for “simple and fun” with a Mexico City-inspired taco shop slated to open inside the Stanley Marketplace later this year.

Teocalli Cocina | 1575 Boulder St. (Highland)

Opened July 20

This six-year-old fan-favorite local chain out of Lafayette is finally bringing its upscale Mexican eats to Denver for a fourth outpost. Setting it apart from its north metro siblings, the LoHi location — formerly The Post Chicken & Beer — will offer an exclusive tapas menu from a speakeasy-style basement.

Kura Sushi | 1855 29th St. (Boulder)

Opened Aug. 1

With 700 locations worldwide — 82 here in the U.S. — Japan’s most famous conveyor belt sushi restaurant has made its way to Colorado at last. Kura’s rolls, ramen, and more are now available in Boulder, with plans to expand to Denver soon.

The Cherry Cricket | 1280 E 1st Ave. (Broomfield)

Opening Aug. 25

One of Denver’s oldest, most iconic burger joints is finally expanding to the ‘burbs north of the city. The new 8,500-square-foot location in Broomfield will be able to host 325 guests.

Last Chance to Visit

The Hornet | 76 Broadway (Baker)

Closing Aug. 9

After 29 years loyally serving South Denver, The Hornet is bidding farewell for good. A heartfelt social post only said that “many things have changed and become more complicated over the years.” Friends and fans are invited to stop by for an “epic sendoff” this Saturday.

Pub on Pearl | 1101 S Pearl St. (Wash Park West)

Closing Aug. 10

This game day go-to will sling its final bar specials this Sunday. The restaurant announced its closure on social media this week, marking the end of its 35-year tenure on South Pearl Street.

Tommy’s Thai | 3410 E Colfax Ave. (Congress Park)

Closing: TBD

This award-winning, family-owned East Colfax institution is sounding the alarm — 44 years serving some of Denver’s best Thai food may not be enough to keep it from being the area’s latest BRT construction casualty.

RIP

June 2025

New to the Scene

El Chingon | 722 Santa Fe Drive (La Alma Lincoln Park)

Opened June 19

El Chingon is now serving in the former location of El Noa Noa, known for one of the best patios in the city and its proximity to First Friday celebrations. Swing by the next time that margarita and taco craving hits!

Chicken N Pickle | 14225 Lincoln Street (Thornton)

Opened June 24

This restaurant and pickleball court combo will have you work up an appetite and help quench it! In addition to fried chicken options, diners can also get wood-fired rotisserie chicken, grilled chicken, and smoked wings.

Lucky Bird and Konjo Ethiopian Food | 1800 Wazee Street (Union Station)

Opened June 18

The two newest vendors inside Milk Market are Lucky Bird and Konjo Ethiopian Food, which also both have locations at the Edgewater Public Market. Konjo serves up vegan and gluten-free Ethiopian staples like tibs and sambusas, while Lucky Bird offers saucy chicken tenders, sandwiches, and wraps.

Returning Faves

Lucky Noodles | 1201 E 1st Avenue (Speer)

Open now

This cozy spot for Thai dishes closed up its Colfax location six months ago and recently reopened in the old Senor Burritos space just off South Broadway, where there’s guaranteed to be plenty of hungry movie and concert goers!

Benzina | 4938 E Colfax (South Park Hill)

Open now

After a few months of uncertainty, this Italian joint housed in a gorgeous Googie-style former gas station is open again and hopefully for the longhaul. With a revamped menu — including what they are calling “pocketbook friendly prices” — the spot will focus on pizza, pasta, and appetizers.

Garibaldi Mexican Bistro | 3298 S Broadway (Englewood)

Open now

This Mexican takeaway spot attached to gas station was seized by the City of Englewood last month for back taxes, but has apparently worked out a deal with the city and was able to reopen while dealing with their debt. Head back in to enjoy their nopales rellenos (stuffed cactus leaves), quesadillas, and more.

Noodles Express | 703 S Colorado Boulevard (Belcaro)

Reopened June 14

Known for its tasty Szechuan cuisine, this dine-in or takeout restaurant is hanging on as the Belcaro Shopping Center where it is housed may be developed into housing and retail if current plans go through.

Last Chance to Visit

Middleman | 3401 E Colfax (Congress Park)

Closing end of June

After seven years on Colfax, this neighborhood favorite just down the street from the Bluebird Theater will close its doors this weekend. Chef Bo Porytko — whose Misfit Snack Bar served up delicious eats at Middleman — told Westword that the bar’s revenue was down 50% from last year, due in large part to ongoing Bus Rapid Transit construction along the strip that made accessing the watering hole increasingly difficult.

RIP

May 2025

New to the Scene

Call Your Mother | 3165 Central Park Boulevard (Central Park)

Opened May 23

The stylish DC-born bagel sandwich shop is reportedly scouting out a new neighborhood for possible expansion and they’ve parked a mobile bagel trailer — aka Lil’ Deli — outside FlyteCo Brewing in Central Park. It’s a perfect stop for a quick chocolate babka muffin or bacon, egg and cheese sandwich.

Señor Burritos | 7195 Federal Boulevard (Westminster)

Opened May 27

After closing its Baker location last year, Señor Burritos reopened in Westminster. The Mexican restaurant has award-winning green chile, which can smother your choice of entree.

Après Govnr’s Park | 400 East 7th Avenue (Speer)

Opened May 12

Located at the former home of Pancho Poncho, Après is a new post-skiing themed pub serving up brews from Storm Peak Brewery and Broken Compass, as well as spirits from Breckenridge Distillery. Some former Pancho Poncho items remain on the menu, rounded out by burgers, sandwiches and poke bowls.

Last Chance to Visit

Congress Park Taproom | 833 Colorado Boulevard (Congress Park)

Closing June 11

The beer hall and neighborhood favorite is closing after nine years. A social media post said it was a difficult decision.

Noisette | 3254 Navajo Street (LoHi)

Closing June 14

Less than three years after opening, this upscale French restaurant announced it was closing due to “ongoing challenges in the current economic climate.”

Great Divide Taproom | 2201 Arapahoe Street (Five Points)

Closing June 30

Great Divide is closing both of its Denver taprooms in Five Points and RiNo after being acquired by new ownership. However, the new owners say they have plans to open a new Denver location later this year.

RIP

April 2025

New to the Scene

Schoolyard Beer Garden and Cafe | 1115 Acoma Street (Civic Center)

Opened April 21

Located inside the historic 121-year-old Evans School, Schoolyard Beer Garden and Cafe has an expansive outdoor patio in a traditional Oktoberfest style and serves up burgers, brats, gyros, and bar snacks. The restaurant comes from the team behind the redevelopment of Union Station, Hangar 2 Lowry, and the Edgewater Beer Garden.

Catira | 5370 Greenwood Plaza Blvd. #107 (Greenwood Village)

Opened April 7

A new Venezuelan restaurant in the Denver Tech Center, Catira’s menu focuses on empanadas, arepas, and cocktails at an affordable price. The kitchen team includes graduates of the city’s WorkReady program, which helps newcomers get job training and find work.

Belles and Boots | 1930 Blake Street (Union Station)

Opened April 4

Want a BBQ restaurant that also offers line dancing and a mechanical bull? The new Belles and Boots is your place! Be sure to try the Belle’s Boot, a rum and coconut drink served in a 30-oz souvenir boot-shaped cup.

Little Johnny B’s | 1665 Grant Street (North Capitol Hill)

Opened April 21

Taking over the space that was formerly Roberta’s inside the Urban Cowboy Hotel, Little Johnny B’s is serving wood-fired pizzas and Italian appetizers. The pizzeria is the latest from the owners of Dio Mio and Redeemer Pizza, so you know it will be good!

Last Chance to Visit

Frank the Pizza King | 4701 S Broadway (Englewood)

Closing in May

After more than 60 years in Englewood, Frank the Pizza King will close next month after the building it called home was sold. It’s possible the longtime pizza establishment will reopen at another location, but they have no official plans yet.

RIP

March 2025

New to the Scene

Nana’s Dim Sum and Dumplings | 2005 Clinton St. (Central Park)

Opened March 27

Nana’s Dim Sum and Dumplings opened its first location in 2023 in LoHi and has become so popular that the restaurant will soon have six locations open in Colorado, including a Central Park location that opened this month. Nana’s is well known for its soup dumplings (xiao long bao) and thumblings — thumb-sized, pan-fried dumplings.

Alteño | 249 Clayton St. (Cherry Creek)

Opened March 17

From the owners of Michelin-starred Alma Fonda Fina, Alteño opened in the Clayton Hotel and is serving up elevated Mexican inspired dishes with influence from the Jalisco region. The menu is broken into raw bar offerings, starters, dishes that highlight maiz, and family-style entrees.

Fiction Beer Company | 7101 E. Colfax Ave. (South Park Hill)

Reopened March 27

After closing at the end of last year, Fiction Beer is reopening under new ownership who plan to bring back a number of things the brewery was known for including its signature beers, trivia nights, and welcoming atmosphere. An opening party with live music, patio games, and a BBQ are planned for April 5.

Last Chance to Visit

Blue Moon Brewing Company RiNo | 3750 Chestnut Pl. (RiNo)

Closing March 28

The Blue Moon brewery in RiNo is the brand’s only experimental brewery, used for testing new flavors before launching them to a wider market (if you’ve had the Blue Moon Mango Wheat, it was first crafted here). Parent company Molson Coors announced the closure after deciding to reduce its investment in craft beer.

The Mercury Cafe | 2199 California St. (Five Points)

Closing March 27

Founded in 1975 in Indian Hills as a witchy, vegetarian-friendly establishment, the Merc – as it’s called by regulars – has been a Five Points institution since moving to its iconic building in 1990. That era will come to a close tonight, with a farewell party hosted in the upstairs ballroom. But not to worry! The space will re-open soon as The Pearl, so stay tuned!

FlyteCo Brewing | 4499 W. 38th Ave. (Berkeley)

Closing April 5

FlyteCo Brewing is closing its original location after six years to focus on the FlyteCo Tower location in the former Stapleton Airport control tower. The brewery will host an ‘aloha’ blowout party on its last day.

RIP

February 2025

New to the Scene

Maíz (Inside Good Vibes Cafe) | 3900 Elati St. (Globeville)

Opened Feb. 2

One of the latest food-truck-to-brick-and-mortar success stories comes in the form of gorditas — fried corn “pockets” stuffed with a choice of six different fillings — from Westword’s 2003 pick for Best Food Truck. Maíz’s new outpost is inside the Good Vibes Cafe at the Assembly Student Living building.

Mama Jo’s Biscuits & BBQ | 3525 E. Colfax Ave. (City Park)

Opened Feb. 14

This BBQ joint launched as a food truck in 2021 and is now serving up its award-winning fried chicken out of the former home of the now-closed Steve’s Snappin’ Dogs.

Maria Empanda | 2730 E. Colfax Ave. (Congress Park)

Opened Feb. 19

Lorena Cantarovici’s Buenos Aires-inspired café opened its fourth Denver location across the street from East High School. The new spot will serve many of Maria Empanada’s classics — my favorite triple threat is the chorizo empanada, a Spanish-style churro, and a sip of Mate.

Last Chance to Visit

Osaka Ramen | 2611 Walnut St. (Five Points)

Closing Feb. 23

Chef Jeff Osaka announced that the RiNo eatery would serve its final bowl on Feb. 24, so this is your last chance to fill up on the famous green chile and chorizo ramen.

Wendell’s Breakfast | 3838 Tennyson St. (Berkeley)

Closing TBA

Like many restaurants in the Denver area, the folks at Wendell’s have struggled to keep up with rising food costs and are now going through an eviction process. There’s no definite closing date, but co-owner Casey Keller told Westword they likely have about a week before they’re forced to shut down.

Benzina | 4839 E. Colfax Ave. (Park Hill)

Closing End of March

The Italian pizzeria inside the Googie-style building on East Colfax is calling it quits after four years, citing, unsurprisingly, the rising costs of running a restaurant in Denver.

RIP

January 2025

Openings:

Adelitas Cocina y Cantina | 5495 W. 20th Ave. (Edgewater)

Opened Jan. 1

The delicious eats from this beloved South Broadway Mexican fave are now also available at the Edgewater Public Market near Sloan’s Lake!

Leven Supply | 300 E. Alameda Ave. (Wash Park)

Opened Jan. 13

Denver’s cult-followed Leven Deli has expanded to include a new Wash Park location now offering pizza and a market selling fresh housemade ingredients, wine, and grab-and-go meals.

Tua Mama’s & Mora New York Pizza | 616 E. 13th Ave. (Cap Hill)

Opened in December

In case you missed it, two new pizza joints have settled into the former Benny Blanco’s space in Cap Hill. Tua Mama’s specializes in gourmet pies and subs, while Mora’s slings vegan offerings including calzones, apps, and ‘za by the slice.

Cart-Driver | 2239 W 30th Ave. (LoHi)

Re-opening Jan. 16

Pizza-lovers rejoice! After a full year closed due to plumbing issues, this Denver pizza staple has finally reopened its LoHi location!

The PZA | 644 Santa Fe Dr. (La Alma Lincoln Park)

Opened Jan. 10

The popular pizzeria that previously operated from a small kitchen connected to Colfax’s gay sports bar, Tight End, is now officially set up in its very own digs on Santa Fe!

Last Chance to Visit

Lucky Noodles | 1201 E. Colfax Ave. (City Park West)

Closing Jan. 24

After five years feeding hungry patrons along East Colfax, Lucky Noodles plans to close the doors permanently this month. Owner Kamolrat “Ploy” Limpapath cited rising costs and the ongoing BRT construction for the decision, BUT also hinted at a “new project” in the works 🤞

Denver Stockyard Saloon | 4710 National Western Dr. (Elyria-Swansea)

Closing in April

Though this iconic cowboy bar isn’t set to shutter until April, right now is likely your last chance to visit during the National Western Stock Show (which runs through Jan. 26). The restaurant’s owner and the new landlords were unable to move past contentious disagreements over renovation plans for the historic building that houses this Stock Show fan-favorite.

Comal Heritage Food Incubator | 1950 35th St. (Five Points)

Closing Feb. 14

The RiNo training kitchen/restaurant that helped dozens of immigrant and refugee women pursue a career path in the culinary arts is closing … for now. The nonprofit that owns the space says it’s looking for a “like-minded operator” to take over and continue Comal’s legacy with a “mission-driven culinary enterprise.”

Jay’s Noodles & New Thai | 1842 South Parker Rd. (South Denver)

Closing Feb. 2

This 15-year-old strip mall gem in South Denver (no relation to J’s Noodles Star Thai on South Federal) is slated to close early next month after owners announced they’re unable to renew the lease, citing — no surprise — lingering pandemic pains and a tough economy.

RIP

November 2024

Openings:

Santa’s Layover Lounge | Concourse B at DIA

Opened Nov. 19

There’s certainly no shortage of over-the-top holiday pop-up bars in Denver — including several returning faves — but the newest one aims to bring a little more cheer to your holiday travel plans. Located in Concourse B at the Denver International Airport, bored travelers can now while away extra airport time at (the kid-friendly) Santa’s Layover Lounge sipping Polar Expresso Martinis and nibbling on pumpkin pie. The pop-up will run through Jan. 6.

Salt Water Social | 201 Columbine St (Cherry Creek)

Opened Nov. 7

The culinary masterminds behind STK and Benihana think they may have just opened the “best seafood restaurant in Cherry Creek.” Owners describe their latest venture, Salt Water Social, as the seafood version of STK, their iconic steakhouse with nightclub vibes.

Magna Kainan | 1350 20th St (Cole)

Opened Nov. 20

Denver diners have been eagerly awaiting the highly acclaimed Filipino eats from legendary Portland chef Carlo Lamagna. The James Beard-honored chef says his goal with the new Magna Kainan in RiNo is to spotlight his Filipino heritage by sharing his family’s cherished recipes.

Le Colonial | 255 Fillmore St (Cherry Creek)

Opened Nov. 27

An uber-popular NYC-born concept — with additional locations in Atlanta, Chicago, Houston, Naples, and more — Le Colonial just made its Colorado debut. Touting a menu that blends French and Vietnamese flavors, the restaurant’s overarching theme is an homage to 1920 Saigon with influences from Paris, Marrakesh, and the Far East woven throughout.

Closings:

Taco House | 581 S Federal Blvd (Westwood)

Closing Dec. 31

This South Federal staple has been a family-operated local standby for affordable Denver-style Mexican eats for 66 years, but come the end of the year, it will be no more. The owners cited increasing food/supply costs, wage and tax hikes, and the lingering impacts of COVID as the reasons for the closure. Taco House’s other location in Lakewood will remain open “for the foreseeable future.”

Ironton Distillery | 3636 Chestnut Pl (Five Points)

Closing Dec. 21

Your last chance to nab an ice cold handcrafted cocktail at Ironton Distillery will be Dec. 21 — at least for the next year, that is. After that, you’ll have to make the trek to Louisville where the distillery has plans to open an expanded tasting room and production facility … in 2026.

Deep Roots Winery | 2875 Blake St (Five Points)

Closing Dec. 15

Also exiting the RiNo beverage scene, Deep Roots Winery and Bistro. The seven-year-old winery is relocating to Golden in hopes of cutting business costs (with plans to open the new location mid-January), and it’s leaving the bistro part of the business behind. Instead, the team will turn its full focus to its wines, as well as a new attempt at hard ciders and lemonades.

Other Recent Closures

October 2024

Openings:

Electric Donut Factory | Food Truck

Opened Nov. 3

In the hopes of filling a niche for late-night post-concert eats, DJ-turned-food truck owner RJ Pangelinan is dishing up fried chicken doughnut sandwiches and other eclectic snacks (most of which are smashed between two sugar-glazed doughnuts) out of the Electric Donut Factory food truck. You can find details on the truck’s next pop-up by following it on Instagram.

Dumplin’ | 3609 W 32nd Ave (West Highland)

Opened Nov. 7

Local culinary legend Frank Bonanno is shaking things up. Taking the place of his decade-old sandwich shop Salt & Grinder (which he shuttered in September) is Dumplin’, an Italian-Asian fusion concept. Bonanno said he’d been looking for a way to riff off his once popular Asian eatery, Bones, which closed in 2019. The new menu will even offer Bones’ signature lobster ramen bowl.

Change Please Coffee | 2115 N Scranton St #1080 (Aurora)

Opened Oct. 29

A globally renowned coffee chain that offers employment, job training, and other support services to individuals experiencing homelessness has made its Colorado debut in Aurora. Plans for a Denver location are already underway, with a tentative opening date in January 2025.

Misfit Snack Bar | 3401 E Colfax Ave (City Park)

Re-opened Oct. 16

After a five-month hiatus to search for a standalone location, Chef Bo Porytko is reopening the fan-favorite eccentric eatery Misfit Snack Bar in its original location at the Middleman cocktail bar. “We decided we missed you all too much and thought it was high time to return home,” the two-time James Beard award nominee said in a recent Instagram post.

Closings:

Infinite Monkey Theorem | 3200 Larimer St (Five Points)

Closing Dec. 31

RiNo’s Infinite Monkey Theorem winery will tap its last keg of wine before year’s end, marking the end of an “urban wine” era that started in an old Baker warehouse 16 years ago and grew into a woman-owned, community standby on the brink of major expansion before the pandemic struck — something the winery “never really recovered from,” says president and CEO Nicki McTague.

Monaco Inn Restaurant | 962 S Monaco St Pkwy (Washington Virginia Vale)

Closed Oct. 26

After 40 years of dishing up Greek, Mexican, and American dinner favorites, the owners of Monaco Inn have hung up their aprons and are ready to enjoy retirement. The restaurant will become the second location for Pomodoro Pizza and Pasta, a popular family-run Italian eatery out of Aurora.

Maine Shack | 1535 Central St (Highland)

Closed Nov. 10

Lobster lovers have less than a week to nab one last buttery lobster roll from Maine Shack before it closes its LoHi shop on Nov. 10. (It closed its Boulder location on Nov. 3.) But fans fret not — that lobster-shaped hole in your heart will (hopefully) only be temporary as the seafood purveyor scouts for a “new and improved space” to re-debut next spring or summer.

September 2024

Openings:

Secret Garden | 1290 N. Williams St. (Cheesman Park)

Opened Sept. 6

This charming all-day cafe is the crown jewel of the newly renovated historic Tears-McFarlane mansion. During the day, you’ll find lattes and light bites. In the evening, the space will take on swanky cocktail lounge vibes, complete with a full bar and charcuterie boards.

Church & Union | 1433 17th St. (Union Station)

Opened Sept. 27

This highly anticipated downtown debut marks outpost no. 4 for the uber popular Charlotte-based chain. The brand has established a reputation for converting unique historic structures, opting to take over Denver’s 128-year-old St. Elmo Hotel building. Church & Union’s signature “The Art of War” graffiti adorns the ceiling, alongside other interesting art pieces. An upscale menu boasts delicacies like braided ravioli, Colorado trout, and gourmet lamb burgers.

The Salty Donut | 3985 Tennyson St. (Berkeley)

Opened Sept. 30

A popular Miami-based transplant, this specialty doughnut shop whips up inventive creations on an ever-rotating made-from-scratch menu depending on the season’s ingredients and the buzziest culinary trends.

Closings:

Comida | 2501 Dallas St. (Aurora)

Closed Sept. 22

Since debuting in 2010, this food truck-turned-success story became an instant favorite for satisfying taco cravings, with three locations at its peak. But Comida has officially shuttered its last-standing location in the Stanley Marketplace. Owner Rayme Rossello said she’s exiting the culinary world altogether, and looking forward to a new chapter in a different industry.

Salt & Grinder | 3609 West 32nd Ave. (West Highland)

Closed Sept. 29

After 10 years of serving up New Jersey-style deli sandwiches, chef/restaurateur Frank Bonanno has closed his popular sandwich shop, Salt & Grinder. But don’t fret, the local culinary king isn’t going anywhere — in fact, he’s not even leaving that building. In the same social media post announcing the closure, Bonanno promises he’ll be reopening soon with something new and delicious…

Steve’s Snappin’ Dogs | 3525 East Colfax Ave. (City Park)

Closed Oct. 19

It’s the end of an East Colfax era. At 70 years old, founder Steve Ballas says simply: he’s tired, and he wants to spend time with his wife. “It's been a very good twenty years,” he told Westword. “I've made a lot of people happy, and it's always better to go out on top." The space will be taken over by Mama Jo’s Biscuits & BBQ, which plans to add some signature Steve’s Snappin’ Dogs to its menu.

Fox Run Cafe | 3550 E. Colfax Ave. (Congress Park)

Closed Oct. 21

In the almost five years since opening at the peak of the pandemic, Fox Run Cafe has developed a loyal brunch-loving fanbase. Among reasons for closing, owner Lucien Reichert cited concerns over the impending BRT construction, tight profit margins, and wanting a break from the constant hustle. Stayed tuned for announcements about a grand farewell party.

August 2024

Openings:

☕ Viva! Mexi Coffee Shop | 4900 E Colfax Ave. (Hale)

Opened Aug. 13

Husband and wife Leonardo Munoz-Corona and Elisa Garcia and are bringing the flavors of their Latin American heritage to East Colfax. The menu will boast fresh-baked specialty pastries (think hot tortas and guava cream cheese knots) and rich, delicious Latin American-inspired lattes, like café de olla and café lechero.

🥃 Lincoln’s | Undisclosed (Union Station)

Opened Aug. 15

Thirsty readers will have to pound the pavement to nab the $5 beer, wine, and cocktails at this hidden bar in the Union Station area. Owner Mark Ohlson is quick to point out that Lincoln’s is not a speakeasy, but rather a simple, affordable “bare-bones bar that gets back to the basics.” The vibes are chill, the policy is cash-only, and everything on the menu rings in at $5 flat.

🍾 Champagne Tiger | 601 E Colfax Ave. (North Cap Hill)

Opened Aug. 24

French bistro meets American diner at this new concept taking over the iconic space on East Colfax that for decades housed Tom’s Diner. Now under the ownership of Chris Donato, known for hosting “bougie rowdy” pop-ups at restaurants across town, the menu will offer everything from oysters and caviar to omelets and cheeseburgers, plus “Denver’s most luxurious” drag brunch.

🌭 Bikers & Bakers | 1800 Wazee St. (Union Station)

Opened Aug. 17

After stepping away from his name-making venture, Biker Jim’s Gourmet Dogs, earlier this year, “Biker Jim” Pittenger is back in a big way. Starting in August, Pittenger resumed slinging his signature exotic sausages (plus new over-the-top pancake breakfasts on Saturdays!) from a pop-up stall in the Milk Market.

Closings:

🍕 Benny Blanco’s | 616 E 13th Ave. (Cap Hill)

Closed Aug. 31

Cap Hill’s long-standing staple for late-night New York-style slices will close at the end of August. The owners, Mike and Holly Martinez, pointed to safety concerns and the “decline of the neighborhood” as the reason for closing. Don’t worry though — you can still catch fresh ‘za by the slice at their new Arvada outpost.

🥩 Elway’s | 2500 E First Ave. (Cherry Creek)

Closed Aug. 31

After two decades serving prime cuts of steak and fine wine in Cherry Creek, Elway’s is pulling the plug on its flagship location citing the ongoing mall construction. A note on the restaurant’s website indicates plans to re-open in the area when construction wraps up.

🍫 Churreria de Madrid | 2501 Dallas St. (Aurora)

Closed Aug. 23

Hungry visitors to Aurora’s Stanley Marketplace will no longer have the sugary fried (and affordable!) goodness of Churreria de Madrid as a snacking option. The churro shop — a sibling concept of the uber popular Maria Empanada — announced its sudden closure Aug. 23, saying in an Instagram post, “we just couldn’t break through to profitability.”

🥞 Crêpes ‘n Crêpes | 1222 Madison St. (Congress Park)

Closed

Following a 19-year stint in Cherry Creek, Crêpes 'n Crêpes made the bold move to Denver’s Congress Park last spring to escape the Cherry Creek mall construction. Despite the early excitement from the community, Westword reports the dining room was empty and the doors were locked tight earlier this month.

July 2024

Openings:

🥩 Carne | 2601 Larimer St. (Five Points)

Award-winning chef Dana Rodriguez (of Work & Class and Casa Bonita fame) has transformed the former Five Points Il Posto space into a sleek, sexy, 1970s-inspired steakhouse — shag carpet and all. The food menu, which spotlights signature meats from around the world, offers a range of prices. The bar offers twists on the classics, martinis “for the table,” and a wine wall.

🍝 Osteria Alberico | 3455 S. University Blvd. (Englewood)

This no-frills approach to simple, high-quality Italian food is a surprising, but welcome, new venture from the famed Frasca Hospitality Group out of Boulder. Think tuna crudo with fresh celery leaves and lemon olive oil, or lamb chops with a simple side of dressed arugula. The focus here is less on complex ingenuity, and instead letting beautiful ingredients speak for themselves.

🥂 The Hampton Social | 2501 16th St. (LoHi)

Chicago-based Parker Hospitality made its Colorado debut last month with its 12th outpost of the popular coastal-inspired Hampton Social. Taking over the expansive space that housed Ale House two years ago, the new LoHi restaurant boasts an enclosed rooftop terrace offering views of the city as well as the mountains and beautiful beachy Insta-worthy interior aesthetics. I’ll be ordering the Manhattan-style lobster roll for lunch and the honey-glazed salmon for dinner.

🍕 Beau Jo’s | 2110 S. University Blvd. (University Park)

The pizza purveyor that has been dishing up “Colorado-style Mountain Pies” for more than 50 years is bringing its famous honey-drenched hand-rolled crusts back to Denver since they closed their Colorado Boulevard location in 2017. This marks the cult-followed local pizza chain’s seventh location.

Closings:

🍰 D Bar | 494 E. 19th Ave. (North Cap Hill)

Bad news: D Bar, the go-to late-night haven for Denverites with a sweet tooth, permanently closed its Uptown outpost last weekend. The owners reported “it’s just not financially viable” anymore. Good news: Their Central Park location will remain open, and a DIA offshoot is planned for the new year.

🦞 Stoic & Genuine | 1701 Wynkoop St. (Union Station)

Hungry Denverites have only a few weeks left to nab a buttery lobster roll from Union Station’s OG tenant, Stoic & Genuine, before it closes for good on Sept. 1. The well-known restaurateurs behind the popular seafood spot, Beth Gruitch and Jennifer Jasinski, cited an expiring lease and “changing market conditions” as the reason for shutting up shop.

🦪 Bistro LeRoux | 1510 16th St. (Union Station)

Chef Lon Symensma — known best for his longtime success at ChoLon Modern Asian Bistro — has announced the end of his French era on 16th Street Mall. Symensma called the once-thriving business strip a “no man’s land with high taxes, high rent and very little return on what you’re paying for.”