Longtime Denver Restaurants Closed Due to Tax Seizure
Two well-known Denver eateries, Wash Park Grille and its sister establishment Agave Taco Bar, have been shut down by the City of Denver due to non-payment of taxes. The closures, which occurred earlier this week, stem from unpaid taxes dating back to April, leaving the restaurants’ future uncertain.
Iconic Restaurants Closed
Located on Gaylord Street at Mississippi Avenue in Denver’s Washington Park area, Wash Park Grille has been a neighborhood staple since 1997. Known for hosting special occasions and holiday gatherings, the restaurant has long been a favorite for locals. However, holiday plans for many customers have been disrupted as the city placed locks on the doors and posted large “TAX SEIZURE” notices explaining the closure.
Agave, Wash Park Grille’s Mexican cuisine counterpart next door, has also been affected by the seizure. Both establishments have been integral to the area’s dining scene, making the closures a significant blow to the community.
Challenges Behind the Closure
Owner Jeff Etsey explained that financial struggles have made it difficult to meet the tax obligations. He cited thin profit margins and the mounting costs of a lawsuit involving the estate of his former business partner, who passed away a few years ago.
“We’re working hard to secure the funds needed to reopen,” Etsey said, emphasizing the urgency of the situation with the holiday season approaching. He added that more than 80 staff members are affected by the closures and are counting on the restaurant’s reopening to keep their jobs.
Uncertain Future
The lawsuit, which has added to the financial strain, is set to go to trial in May. In the meantime, Etsey is exploring options to resolve the tax issues and reopen the restaurants. However, it remains unclear whether Wash Park Grille and Agave will be able to welcome back customers in time for Christmas—or if they will reopen at all.
For now, the Washington Park area must wait to see if these longtime dining destinations will recover from this setback and return to serving the community.
