Two Dolores icons are closing their doors, and a popular chain store has expressed interest in opening up shop.
The 115-year tradition of the Hollywood Bar and Cafe reportedly came to an end this month. The bar has been closed, but the owner could not be reached to confirm. The telephone number has been disconnected.
After a devastating fire in 2012, co-owner and popular cook Travis Giddings re-opened the popular honky-tonk in August 2013 at a new location on the east end of town.
The original sign, bar and memorabilia were salvaged from the fire and incorporated into the new location, which was previously Karla's Kitchen.
"We're sad to see it go, it has been a long standing tradition," said customer Brenda Savage.
Also, The Naked Moose plans to closing its doors on Sunday, Aug. 30. The full-service restaurant and bar on Second Street has anchored the west end of town for decades.
The Pixler family and their friends re-opened the place in May 2013, after it had been closed since 2006.
The owner wants to spend more time with his family, said his sister Kim Pixler.
"He's got two young kids, and it's tough when you work 70-hour weeks," she said. "We had a good run, and it went really well."
The turn-key restaurant, bar and building are for sale for $299,000, Pixler said.
Family Dollar has expressed interest in moving to Dolores, officials said.
"So far, they have just called a few times for information on our building and zoning codes," said interim manager Lana Hancock.
Dolores does not have many chain businesses and some want to keep it that way. But others were more supportive.
"Not everybody would be thrilled with them coming here," said board member Izzy Boyce.
Taz Vass, owner of the Dolores Market, said it would only help his business.
Board member Santiago Lopez favored putting out the welcome mat.
"We should be encouraging businesses to move here, not discouraging them," he said.
Board members wondered if they would have a say in the franchise coming to Dolores. It was noted if the company complies with all the current building codes, zoning regulations and obtained a business licence they could open without a board decision.
jmimiaga@cortezjournal.com
