Forks Mercantile and Saloon Sells to New Owners

A local ranch family will run the historic business. 


Katie Porter
Written By Katie Porter
News Writer
Photo: Forks Mercantile and Saloon

The iconic Forks Mercantile and Saloon in Livermore has officially changed hands, marking a new era for the 150-year-old property. Biz West reports that the business, located at 17685 North Hwy 287, sold to a local family for $1.3 million.

Its new owners, Zach and Sherryl Thode, are local ranchers deeply connected to the community. Zach, who holds a master’s degree in water engineering from Colorado State University, is a first-generation rancher who manages a herd of 400 cows and 150 yearlings.

The Rhodes told What Now Denver they hope to connect the community with their ranch via the acquisition. They plan to add locally-sourced, grass-fed beef to the menu from their business at Lehi Ranch.

At Forks Mercantile and Saloon, the deli serves toasted subs, classic sandwiches like BLTs and turkey clubs, and comfort food such as nachos, grilled cheese, and breakfast options. Its restaurant offers hearty fare, including smash burgers, loaded tots, salads, wings, and specialty entrees like braised pot roast and fried chicken sandwiches. Local Wander Coffee is served in the espresso bar with a full lineup of hot and iced drinks.

The business sits at a major crossroads and includes a convenience store, gas station, deli, coffee bar, full-service bar, and restaurant. It’s considered a central landmark in the Livermore area and was originally founded in 1875 as a rest stop and hotel. The building was destroyed by fire in 1985 and was rebuilt with community support, reopening in 1990, its website explains.

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Katie Porter is a freelance journalist and copywriter located in the Mile High City of Denver, covering the Colorado and SoCal restaurant scenes. She has always been a news junkie, keen to stay informed about what's going on in her community and the world, constantly on the lookout for interesting nuggets. Her articles have appeared in a variety of other publications, including 1851 Franchise, Estatenvy, Boulder Weekly, ThisSongisSick, el Don News, TheThings, Stache Cow, and more.
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