The City of Denver Ventures into the Restaurant Business
Denver Arts & Venues, the department responsible for managing iconic spaces such as Red Rocks Amphitheatre and the Denver Performing Arts Complex, is seeking an experienced restaurateur to lease the ground floor of the historic McNichols Civic Center Building in Civic Center Park. The chosen candidate will also oversee an outdoor patio adjacent to the building.
This initiative marks the first time in its 116-year history that the McNichols Civic Center Building will house a full-service restaurant. The city’s request for proposals (RFP) outlines the vision to activate Civic Center Park and create a vibrant dining destination for both residents and visitors.
The city recently commenced the $50 million first phase of a park renovation project, aimed at enhancing accessibility and revamping the outdoor Greek Theater. The construction is set to conclude in the summer or fall of 2027, coinciding with the opening of the new restaurant.
In preparation for the restaurant, the city will install a complete kitchen, bar, interior dining area, and a new outdoor patio. Interested parties can submit their proposals by March 27 here.
Originally built as the Carnegie Library in 1910, the McNichols Civic Center Building underwent renovations in 2012 and now bears the name of former Denver Mayor Bill McNichols. Alongside the restaurant, the building will also host a museum and an arts marketplace.
