Denver Is Losing Everything That Gave It Character

By Westwood Readers | Commentary, Westword

After almost thirty years, the Hornet has taken off from the corner of First and Broadway.

For decades, the Hornet has amused patrons and passersby alike with the messages on the sign outside the restaurant at 76 Broadway. But the sign that went up last week was not so amusing: “Thanks Denver! Come & Say Bye.”

The Hornet flew off after last call on August 9; the building it had called home for almost thirty years was sold this spring, and the restaurant itself had been put up for sale. But instead, the owners opted to close, putting this message on social media: “While many things have changed and become more complicated over the years at 1st & Broadway, we would prefer to celebrate all of the amazing times that you shared with us.”

The owners still have Acova at 3651 Navajo Street, in a neighborhood that’s changing but doesn’t face the same challenges of street construction and crime that Broadway businesses have reported in recent years. In their comments on the Westword Facebook post of the news, readers share both memories of the area and concerns about its future. Says Katie:

The Hornet was one of the best places in Denver and will be greatly missed. We’re going to be lost without it.

Responds RD:

I had a love-hate relationship with The Hornet. I’ve had some good times and some equally irritating and downright heartbreaking moments there. Nonetheless, the Hornet was always there, on that one corner, on Broadway. As I recall, there were multiple crashes into its picture windows, and it came back every time. It survived COVId, a time where several better restaurants crashed. Despite all that, I would see it on my way home every weekend, reminding me I am in Denver. Until now.

READ THE COMPLETE STORY AT WESTWORD

Editor’s note: Opinions expressed in commentary pieces are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the management of the Rocky Mountain Voice, but even so we support the constitutional right of the author to express those opinions.