1914 House is closing

Nick Mastronardi, owner of Niwot's 1914 House, announced that the restaurant will be closing at the end of July. In a prepared statement, Mastronardi wrote, "The 1914 House Farewell Tour has begun."

He continued, "The economics of the business have reached a point where it is unfortunately unsustainable. Expenses have collectively escalated to levels that exceed our ability to increase prices." Mastronardi cited property taxes, utility costs, labor costs and food costs as contributing factors. He said his energy costs have continued to climb, and pointed to how the recent large increase in sanitation district rates imposes another financial burden on a business that uses 10 sewer taps.

Mastronardi, who also owns the building at 121 2nd Avenue through an LLC that houses 1914 House, was thankful for the restaurant experience though, saying, "On a positive note, I have so much to be thankful for. Up until now, the restaurant has surpassed all expectations. In the early days, it was a very local customer base who kept us busy from the outset. Relying on word of mouth, we have watched our loyal base grow exponentially. So many friends have been made along the way."

The property at 121 2nd Avenue was home for many years to Rev. Taylor's restaurant, before being purchased by Chris Finger, who owned a piano store on 2nd Avenue and used it for storage. Mastronardi was able to reinvent the space as a restaurant, and it again became a staple of downtown Niwot.

Property taxes, both real and personal, have grown exponentially over the last 10 years. Real estate taxes for 2014, the year Mastronardi purchased the property, were just under $15,000 a year. Ten years later, real property taxes were over $46,000. Personal property taxes on equipment and furniture added another $9,000 in costs this year.

Mastronardi also cited the Boulder County minimum wage increase as a factor in the restaurant's closing. The restaurant employs several high school students, and while Mastronardi is pleased to watch them become valued employees, the lack of an exception from the county's minimum wage law makes them unaffordable.

He has been trying for months to find a solution that works to address the increasing costs, but said he sees no viable way forward. He noted that 1914 House is not the only area restaurant to close recently, citing the recent closure of several Boulder restaurants.

"I'm incredibly thankful for our amazing staff," he said. "Current, and former, team members have been so vital to making 1914 House a special place. Their commitment to 'The House' is the reason why we are not closing abruptly. Having my family, and [Chef] Justin [Hirshfield], involved from the very beginning has only added to the joy of this project."

Mastronardi also said the restaurant will remain in operation until late July. "Weather permitting, the patio will be open May 1st," he said. "We look forward to welcoming you in to enjoy your favorite drink, dish and hospitality team members."