Robert Tournier, owner of Le Central restaurant in Denver, announced Wednesday that he will close the French eatery after 34 years in business.

A popular spot at the corner of East Eighth Avenue and Lincoln Street — known for its colorful outdoor murals and a menu of classic bistro fare such as Coquilles St. Jacques, steamed mussels and trout almondine — Le Central probably will shutter Sept. 13, maybe earlier.

Fans of the Golden Triangle eatery expressed dismay after Tournier sent word of the closing to patrons and associates.

“I am so sorry to hear of the closing, but we have so many happy memories at your wonderful restaurant!” wrote Laura Pino on the restaurant’s Facebook page. “Birthdays, anniversaries, bringing my family from out of town, my son’s wedding cake and reception. Thank you for all the good times!”

The restaurateur said he was moved by the response. “I am amazed to see so much love — it is a little bit scary.”

Tournier said he was approached about selling the building at 112 E. Eighth Ave. and decided it would be a good time to let it go. “The Denver market is growing and I got a valuable offer.”

Buell & Co. listed the 4,712-square-foot building, located on a prime, high-traffic corner, for $1.4 million. Tournier said the property is under contract, and he expects the sale to close Oct. 1.

Tournier plans to retire from the restaurant business and spend his time visiting family. “I will be a vagabond,” he said with a laugh.

When he opened the restaurant in 1981, Tournier rented the space and worked solo in the kitchen — with help from just his wife, a waitress and a dishwasher. Today, Le Central employs between 40 and 50 people, he said.

His concept was to re-create the simple food he enjoyed growing up in the southern port city of Toulon, France.

“I took the chance to open a French restaurant with no business plan, serving affordable food and wines on Salvation Army chairs, with friendly non-professional service, no dress code, reservation or credit card and you loved it,” he said in an e-mail. “I am very grateful; I could not have done it without an incredible staff and your willingness to try something different.”

Tournier also said that at age 65 and “a grandfather with 40-plus years in the restaurant business (1 year = 3 human years), it is time to stop. The 13 of September should be the last day but keep in touch. We may decide to close earlier.”

Suzanne S. Brown: 303-954-1697, sbrown@denverpost.com or twitter.com/suzannebro