This is a chronological list of restaurants permanently closed in Denver, Colorado—a nostalgic look back and a helpful resource for those seeking available restaurant spaces. These are the places that we miss. This is our restaurant history, a forgotten piece of our heritage. No matter how long each of these eateries was open, they daily paid someone’s rent, provided sustenance for a hungry traveler, or simply became part of the community. So please join us and do not forget this part of our town.
Nestled against the backdrop of the Rocky Mountains, Denver, Colorado, boasts a vibrant food scene that reflects its diverse population of over 700,000 residents. Known for its farm-to-table ethos, the city is celebrated for local dishes such as Rocky Mountain oysters and green chili, which showcase the region’s agricultural bounty and Western heritage. A must-visit is the iconic Buckhorn Exchange, a historic restaurant that has been serving game meats and American cuisine since 1893, offering a taste of the Old West. Denver’s high altitude and proximity to fresh produce and artisanal farms further enrich its culinary offerings, making it a gastronomic hub in the heart of the Rockies.
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Disclaimer: The information on this website is provided as a resource, but it may not always be 100% accurate. While we strive to research and verify details, errors can occur, and businesses frequently change names, locations, or reopen after closing. Addresses, operating status, and other details may be outdated or incorrect. Use this information at your own risk. If you spot an error, please contact us here, and we will do our best to update it promptly.
Closed Down Restaurants in Denver, Colorado
Remembering the Mile High City’s Lost Dining Landmarks
Denver’s food scene is always evolving, but many restaurants that once defined the city’s flavor have since closed their doors. From regional favorites and national chains to neighborhood dives, here’s a decade-by-decade look at the city’s most memorable restaurant closures.
2020s
Red Lobster
Location: 8268 Northfield Blvd, Denver, CO
Closure Date: May 2024
This classic seafood chain shuttered during a wave of national closures. The Northfield location was known for family dinners and endless shrimp nights.
Fruition
Closure Date: January 2025
A trailblazer in Denver’s farm-to-table movement, Fruition served up thoughtful, seasonal menus before closing after nearly two decades.
Steve’s Snappin’ Dogs
Closure Date: October 2024
This popular hot dog stand closed after 19 years of business, leaving a chili-cheese-shaped hole in Denver’s heart.
Fox Run Cafe
Closure Date: October 2024
Known for elevated brunch dishes and a warm community vibe, Fox Run Café shut its doors in 2024.
Benny Blanco’s
Location: 616 E 13th Ave
Closure Date: August 31, 2024
This late-night pizza window was beloved for its greasy New York-style slices—perfect for Capitol Hill’s nightlife crowd.
Owlbear Barbecue
Location: 2826 Larimer St
Closure Date: 2024
A modern twist on Texas-style barbecue, Owlbear closed after battling pandemic-related challenges.
Brass Tacks
Location: 1526 Blake St
Closure Date: 2024
A downtown bar and lounge with craft cocktails and local eats that couldn’t survive the post-pandemic downtown slump.
Falling Rock Tap House
Location: 1919 Blake St
Closure Date: June 27, 2024
A legend in the craft beer world, Falling Rock offered more than 75 beers on tap. It closed after 24 years.
Bar Louie (Denver location)
Closure Date: 2024
This popular chain filed for bankruptcy, shuttering multiple U.S. locations including its Denver outpost.
The Havana Grill (formerly Chi-Chi’s)
Location: 2165 Academy Pl
Opened: 2019 | Closed: 2024
Originally a Chi-Chi’s, the site evolved into an event space and then a short-lived Cuban grill. It’s now BC’s Barbecue.
Old Chicago (South Colorado Blvd)
Location: 1280 S Colorado Blvd
Opened: 1998 | Closed: 2021
Known for deep-dish pizza and beer, this location closed quietly during pandemic-related struggles.
2010s
Toby Keith’s I Love This Bar & Grill
Closure Date: 2015
The Denver branch of this country-themed chain was closed abruptly after unpaid taxes led to a city auction.
Larkburger (Denver locations)
Closure Date: January 2019
Once praised for its eco-conscious burger concept, Larkburger closed multiple locations amid a rebranding effort.
2000s and Earlier (Including 1970s)
Howard Johnson Restaurant (401 E 58th Ave)
Status: Now an Ace Hardware
This location served roadside comfort food before its transformation into a hardware store.
Howard Johnson Restaurant (4765 Federal Blvd)
Status: Previously housed local banquet halls and taquerias
Known over time as Salon De Fiestas, La Frontera, and El Padrino.
Howard Johnson Restaurant (6300 E Hampden Ave)
Status: Now a strip mall with Jimmy John’s and Cold Stone Creamery
Another victim of the decline of the HoJo dining empire.
Howard Johnson (Unspecified Address)
Status: Details and successor businesses unknown
One of several lost HoJo sites throughout Denver.
Burger Chef (Historic)
Denver once hosted multiple Burger Chef restaurants—a fast-food chain famous for innovation before its absorption by Hardee’s.
Hooters (1390 S Colorado Blvd)
Status: Closed
Once a go-to for wings and sports, this Hooters location has since closed.
Hooters (300 S Jackson St #400)
Status: Closed
Another local Hooters location that quietly disappeared over the last decade.
Final Thoughts
Denver’s culinary history is full of flavors, stories, and cherished memories. From places that pioneered fine dining to those that just made great fries, these now-closed restaurants all helped shape the city’s identity.
For more historic listings, local insights, and to share your own restaurant memories, visit Closed Down Restaurants.com.
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