Saucy Noodle Owners Confused After Demolition Notice
DENVER (CBS4)- The owners of an Italian restaurant in Denver's Bonnie Brae neighborhood say they were blindsided, after a notice from the city and county of Denver appeared on its window. The Saucy Noodle, along with neighboring addresses between 715 and 731 South University, received notices regarding a demolition application Monday evening.
"We've been good tenants for 55 years. We had no notification from the landlord, the city, or anyone else. I think we deserved more than a notice on the door," said Erin Markham, owner of The Saucy Noodle. "The landlord should've had the decency to tell us in person."
Erin and her husband, Nathan Markham, acquired the restaurant from her grandfather. The family restaurant has become a staple in neighborhood. Customers, like Bunnie Strassner, happily travel more than 60 miles to dine there.
"I've been coming here for years, and I heard there was a notice posted about demolishing the building. I had to come and offer whatever support I could," said Strassner. She stopped by the restaurant prior to opening Tuesday to check on the Markhams.
The notice says that the City of Denver has received a Certificate Of Demolition Eligibility Application from the building's owner. Building owners often seek the ability to demolish property, especially if there are plans to sell.
The city found the property has potential for landmark designation, and set a March deadline for others to seek designation and avoid demolition. However, Markham says she's not interested.
"There have been a lot of issues with other businesses that have tried to fight for that historic status. I don't plan to. I don't think it's worth the trouble," said Markham. "I grew up in this building, doing what I love. I just wish they would've told us."
Markham says she's most worried about the future of her 25 employees, whom she calls family.
The Saucy Noodle currently has a lease at its current location until Dec. 31, and the owners expect they'll be able to stay until then. The Markhams have not been in communication with the building owner, Harry Sterling, since they became aware of the notice. He has not responded to requests for comment.
The Markhams said they'll be taking a few days off this week to think about their next steps, but they're certain this notice wont be the end of their company.
