Gunbarrel and Niwot consumers were dealt a blow when three area businesses closed within two weeks. The south side of Second Avenue in downtown Niwot received a double whammy with the permanent closure of Rev. Taylor’s Country Restaurant and the niwot gallery.

Rev. Taylor’s, a Niwot institution and a Boulder County dining destination for 15 years, closed on April 28. Marc Faulkner, the owner and chef, blames the closing on "…decreased business during the last two years and health problems in my family. I know that, over the years, we have drawn lots of people into town," Marc said, "and I tried to find another operator for the restaurant, but I was not successful. We are under contract to sell the building to Chris Finger," Faulkner reported. 

Rev Taylor’s AttiC, the tea room on the second floor operated by Cee Dolenc, will remain open.

Barbara Finger, of Chris Finger Pianos said, "It all happened so fast. It’s too early for any concrete plans. We are just expanding our business. We will use the space next door."

When asked about his future plans Faulkner stated, "I’m going to take some time off. Then, maybe I’ll try the food equipment or the food service industry. I don’t have any plans to open another restaurant."

Eileen Holtry opened the niwot gallery on Second Avenue last fall. She represented several fine Colorado artists and carried a modest selection of antiques and jewelry. 

On several occasions Holtry expressed concern with the dark storefronts on the south side of Second Avenue. Perhaps she was right.

Steve Spurgeon, president of PS Inc. Computer Graphics, purchased the building about a year ago. Last fall, when the antique jewelry store relocated out-of-state, Spurgeon was forced to rent the space for office use. At that time he stated, "I was not able to find a retail tenant." 

Regarding Niwot gallery’s recent closure, Spurgeon said, "I would prefer to sell the niwot gallery half of the building for retail use. So far most of the inquires are for office use or restaurants. Finding a suitable tenant is not easy."

Finally, Galaxy Video in Gunbarrel Square Shopping Center recently closed its doors, but according to the sign on the door hopes to open "soon" under new management. This closure, along with the closing of Entertainment Plus Video in Cottonwood Square Shopping Center last year, leaves area residents no other choice but to go to the big chain stores like King Soopers or Blockbuster Video to rent a movie.

"A toast to Marc and Sherry" will be held at Rev. Taylor’s on May 27th at 3 p.m. Stay tuned for further details.