Frank Bonanno's Denver restaurant empire has been holding steady for the past couple of years, but changes are in the works. The restaurateur just announced that Lou's Food Bar, at 1851 West 38th Avenue, will be closing this Sunday, February 12. Here's the message from Bonanno's Facebook page:

Dear Denver, This Sunday will be the last for Lou's FoodBar, so get in here and get your fill of hot fried chicken and palomas before the doors close. Raise a glass to what lies ahead and thank you for a fantastic—really awesome, wonderful—6 years.



Bonanno says the decision was purely financial. "I sold the building, so that's why it's closing," he explains, adding that although the restaurant wasn't listed, he was getting an offer a week for the property. The buyer is Kentro Real Estate Group; Bonanno says he doesn't know what the company's plans are for the building.

"Ironically, 2016 was the best year we've had at Lou's financially," he adds.

So what will become of the awesome Nashville hot chicken and other homestyle specialties that Sunnyside residents have come to love? "Yes, Lou's will be reincarnated," Bonanno promises, though the exact plans and location are under wraps for now. He also notes that the majority of Lou's employees are already being relocated to other restaurants in his group.

And his restaurant count won't be down for long: While Lou's is going dark, Bonanno will open French 75 in June at 17th and Stout streets. It will join a lineup that includes Bones, Mizuna and Luca, staples near Governor's Park; Osteria Marco, Russell's Smokehouse and Green Russell (along with Wednesday's Pie), all popular spots in Larimer Square; and Salt & Grinder in Highland.

