After just one year of selling its pastries and sweets, Le Clare’s Patisserie said it will close its retail operation on July 19 due to the effects of construction on East Colfax Avenue.
Related: Colfax restaurants say they are barely hanging on amid BRT line construction
Instead, owner Maggie Kates will convert the space, at 2260 E. Colfax Ave., into what they are calling a “culinary collaborative” called ViDa Eats Culinary Collaborative. That will include hands-on cooking classes, Airbnb culinary experiences and private dining experiences, seasonal high tea parties and brunches, themed events, charcuterie, small bites and custom desserts catering.
“This decision has not come lightly, as unexpected construction challenges have created a dramatic decline for visitors to all businesses along Colfax. Instead of closing the doors and walking away, we choose to pivot,” Kates wrote on social media.
A three-year-long project called the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) line is being built between downtown Denver and Aurora. The project has torn up the street and forced some businesses and restaurants to close, while creating a difficult situation for many more.
“Our vision is filled with intention and highlights, in a more interactive and intimate way, the sense of community and collaboration we designed into Le Clare’s storefront,” she continued.
“While our charming walk-in shop will no longer be open for pastries during set hours, this pivot allows us to create more hours of offerings, with even more time to connect and hear the stories and inspirations we want to share, in the same space.”
Le Clare’s first opened in July 2024.
