But as we pulled off Federal Boulevard and into the strip mall that houses Lao Wang, we noticed that the eatery was dark, and the familiar noise of demolition was coming from within.
We feared the worst -- but a sign on the window assured us that Lao Wang is only closed until Thursday, March 31, for remodeling.
And now for the good news: a liquor license application is also posted in the restaurant's window, which means that after eleven dry years, we'll finally be able to pair our xiao long bao (and beef noodle soup and pigs ears) with crisp beer.
When I reviewed the place, Danny Wang, the Wangs' son, told me that his parents were planning on landing a liquor license so that they could sell beer from his brewery, CAUTION: Brewing Co. It looks like they're finally making good on that promise.
Lao Wang will have its liquor-license hearing at the Denver Department of Excise and Licenses on April 8.