From family-run breweries to unique market concepts, Denver’s food and beverage world had to bid farewell to some outlets in May 2025. From a drop in business traffic to the already struggling dining industry post-pandemic, May ended on a sad note. The community lost some of its go-to spots amid various challenges.
Highlights
- Three prominent food establishments in Denver closed permanently on May 31, 2025.
- These closures highlight the persistent challenges within the food and beverage industry.
- The community’s emotions changed from sad and nostalgic to hopeful about supporting upcoming ventures in the city.
Notable Restaurant Closures in May 2025 in Denver
With a lot of restaurants opening and closing every now and then, a few notable food establishments went out of business in Denver last month. An Italian restaurant, an old brewery, and a unique farm with a market and restaurant were closed in the city. The main reasons cited by the establishments for closure were changing consumer behavior and low foot traffic.
Benzina
- Address: 4839 E Colfax Ave, Denver, CO 80220
- Closure Date: May 31, 2025
Benzina, located on Colfax Avenue, was an Italian restaurant specializing in Neapolitan-style pizza. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere and event space, the restaurant announced on February 20, 2025, that it was facing financial difficulties and reduced foot traffic in the post-pandemic era.
The restaurant was expected to close by the end of March. However, fortunately, they experienced good sales and a restaurant full of people and decided to stay open even after March.
Then, again, the restaurant started experiencing the same issues gradually, and after pushing the closure multiple times, on May 6, the restaurant announced May 31 as their last day. The owner requested that loyal customers visit for the last time to keep the building alive.
On the final day of service, another post came out, which filled the diners with joy. A new concept and menu will be launched on June 6, 2025, as the owner has a long lease at this location and has to do one thing or the other to make it through.
Burns Family Artisan Ales Brewery & Taproom
- Address: 1236 S Broadway, Denver, CO 80210
- Closure Date: May 31, 2025
Burns Family Artisan Ales was a brewery in Denver that Wayne and Laura opened. Wayne has been a professional brewer since 1990, and with over 35 years of experience, he earned the name of “Big-Beer King.”
The brewery already had a good name for serving craft beer with a depth of flavor. They expanded to South Broadway in late 2023. Two types of setups, TapHouse and BarrelHouse, were made for low and high-abv beers on tap.
A few days back, the brewery announced on its social media and website that they are set to go out of business. The taproom occasionally saw a good number of customers, facing low foot traffic mostly.
So, the decision was made to serve for the last time on May 31, 2025, and shut the doors forever. A sort of clearance sale was also there for customers, in which those with cash were getting a 10% discount, and when purchasing five bottles, the 6th was free.
Farm and Market
- Address: 2401 Larimer St, Denver, CO 80205
- Closure Date: May 31, 2025
Farm & Market joined Denver’s culinary scene in 2023. It was a unique concept where three different things were under one roof. With a focus on offering fresh produce, hydroponic farming was introduced in one section.
People could also get groceries at the same place with a wide range of local products. Then, there was also a restaurant that used to offer delicious and healthy salads, soups, and handy food.
The unique and innovative step failed to bring in the required amount of revenue to continue the business. On May 31, 2025, the social media handles of Farm & Market revealed that they had closed their doors and thanked each person who became a part of this short but valuable journey.
While these closures mark the end of an era and innovative experiments, Denver’s resilient food scene is ready to bounce back. The enthusiasm of those like the owner of Benzina shows that if one thing fails, the industry will come up with something new for its diners.
