From INFLATION to higher minimum wages, an onslaught of calamities has brought down two beloved restaurants.
The closures add to the list of popular eateries shuttered down in Denver.
Popular Denver chains are struggling in the currency economy[/caption]
Within hours of one another, Cap City Tavern and Denver Sweet closed July 27.
Denver Sweet – popular among the LGBTQ+ community – closed its doors after six years in service.
“This was an incredibly difficult decision to make, but we believe the time has come,” Denver Sweet said in a press release.
“Creating and running Denver Sweet has been a dream come true for us — and saying goodbye is heartbreaking,” the bar added.
The rooftop establishment had won the 2025 Colorado Drag & Variety Award for Best Queer Bar.
“We’ve done everything we could to push forward — including personally funding operations — but the current climate simply isn’t viable for us anymore,” Denver Sweet said.
Cap City Tavern had been a Denver fixture for 18 years.
Cap City Tavern closed its doors on July 27[/caption]
“We thank you for all the memories you’ve made with us,” Cap City Tavern wrote on Facebook.
“The community here has become our family, and we are beyond grateful for each and every one of you,” Cap City Tavern added.
LAST CALL
Patrons of both popular Denver locations took to social media to pay their respects.
“What an incredible loss,” one person posted on Instagram about Cap City Tavern.
“A home away from home full of years of memories
“Sending so much love” the person added.
Denver sweet got plenty of love too.
Restaurant closures in 2025
Denny’s – Denny’s has confirmed that up to 150 locations are set to close in the US by the end of the year as many of them are no longer profitable.
Red Lobster – The chain has said that it plans to close over 100 stores across the country this year as new CEO Damola Adamolekun takes over.
TGI Friday’s – TGI Friday’s is still being forced to shutter locations thanks to a bankruptcy filing, including 30 in April alone.
Applebee’s – This chain is projecting a loss of 20 to 35 Applebee’s spots in 2025 but is teaming up with IHOP to introduce dual-branded locations with a curated menu of the two’s best items.
Noodles & Company – This emporium is set to close between 17 and 21 locations in 2025 following a difficult 2024.
“I loved going in and getting my pickle shots, playing pool with family, getting sloshed of AMFs during Pride,” one person posted on Instagram.
“I made so many memories and had the best times of my life at Sweet,” the person continued.
A BIGGER CUT
The two Denver closures are part of a nationwide trend of bars and restaurants closing down amid issues like high inflation.
Popular New York City spots like Our Wicked Lady, The Pencil Factory and ROKC have closed their doors as well, according to Eater.
Meanwhile, Los Angeles has lost Nusr-Et, Banng Bang Noodles and Verve.
