Braun Taphaus Closes in Olde Town Arvada

The Baron family hit it big with its Udi's brand of breads and bakery cafes, but ever since they sold their gluten-free line of products to Smart Balance for a reported $125 million, things have been a little tough. First they had to rename all the cafes and bakeries that...

By Mark Antonation

August 3, 2015

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The Baron family hit it big with its Udi's brand of breads and bakery cafes, but ever since they sold their gluten-free line of products to Smart Balance for a reported $125 million, things have been a little tough. First they had to rename all the cafes and bakeries that had previously been united under the Udi's moniker (that went with the sale) to either Silvi's Kitchen, Izzio Artisan Bakery or Etai's Bakery Cafe — a confusing move for many customers. And in November 2013, the family introduced another name — Braun Taphaus & Grille — in Olde Town Arvada.

A great corner location and a revitalized neighborhood that will soon have its own light rail stop weren't enough to save Braun, which is now closed and sporting For Lease signs in the windows. A separate sign on the front door apologizes to customers and directs them across the intersection to a Silvi's Kitchen — one of two in the metro area. The second is in the City Set development in Glendale; a third closed last winter to make room for the Baron family's new concept, the Good Son, in the Lowenstein building.

Mark Antonation is the former Westword Food & Drink Editor. In 2018, he was named Outstanding Media Professional by the Colorado Restaurant Association; he's now with the Colorado Restaurant Foundation.

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