A year ago, Denver’s restaurant owners found themselves grappling with a multitude of challenges. The mounting costs for labor, supplies, and rent were becoming overwhelming, even as certain neighborhoods experienced high vacancy rates. Compounding this was an ongoing frustration with accessibility issues, including construction and parking struggles, which deterred customers from dining out. Many also felt that parts of the city seemed unsafe for visitors.
Recognizing these concerns, leading restaurateurs collectively voiced their frustrations, prompting a response from Visit Denver. Collaborating with Denver’s Economic Development & Opportunity department and hospitality tech firm inKind, the organization launched the Denver Restaurant Liaison Project. This initiative aimed to address these pressing issues through researched dialogue among industry experts, city officials, and restaurant owners.
The findings of this collaborative effort were unveiled in a recent report, highlighting the pivotal role restaurants play in Denver’s economy, contributing 13 percent to the city’s sales tax and nearly 10 percent of local employment. Despite the influx of new and promising eateries, many established owners are stepping back due to increasing financial pressures.
One independent restaurateur lamented, “Everything costs more – labor, food, insurance, trash. Our guests have hit their limit on what they can pay for a night out.” A significant issue within this framework is the tipped minimum wage, which saw a staggering 95% increase that many owners felt unprepared for when drafting their business plans.
While the Colorado Legislature chose to defer addressing the minimum wage issue directly last year, it did empower local municipalities to make independent changes. Unfortunately, Denver has yet to act on providing relief for its restaurant owners.
Another critical concern that surfaced was the complex permitting process, which one restaurant operator described as “a city of No.” The fragmented nature of permits creates confusion, making it challenging for restaurateurs to navigate requirements. However, Mayor Mike Johnston has initiated efforts to streamline this process, though further improvements are necessary.
Additionally, the perception of safety in various districts remains a significant obstacle. Even with progress—such as increased police presence in downtown Denver—operators continue to express concerns for their staff’s safety at night, recounting incidents ranging from vandalism to harassment.
Despite these difficulties, the narrative surrounding Denver’s dining scene does not need to be overwhelmingly negative. While some local media persist in casting a bleak outlook, the city’s culinary reputation continues to flourish, bolstered by diverse offerings that range from beloved neighborhood spots to prestigious Michelin-star restaurants.
“Restaurants are one of the pillars of Denver’s economy and part of our cultural identity,” remarked Richard Scharf of Visit Denver. The momentum gained from events like Denver Restaurant Week and the Denver Food & Wine Festival highlights the community’s commitment to supporting the food and beverage industry.
As Visit Denver continues its efforts to promote local dining, the call to action for residents is clear: support local businesses, engage with their offerings, and enjoy all that the city has to offer. Each dining experience not only uplifts these establishments but also enhances the vibrant culture that defines Denver.