A historic 1967 building that formerly housed Tom’s Diner on East Colfax is undergoing renovations to become home to a modern indoor/outdoor “oasis in the city.” Renovations are expected to take about six months, with the new Tom’s Starlight opening to the public in late summer of 2022.
Tom’s Diner closed amid the pandemic in 2020 after two decades in operation. The building that housed Tom’s Diner was at the center of local preservation efforts by GBX Group LLC, Historic Denver, Colorado Historical Foundation, and Tom’s Diner owner Tom Messina in recent years, saving it from demolition nearly two years ago.
GBX Group specializes in the acquisition, preservation, and operation of historic real estate in urban markets, and project developer Denver Land Company played a key role in facilitating and materializing project plans.
Renovations are now underway to build-out the original space. The renovation work includes significant interior changes and a complete exterior update to include new storefront glass and an outdoor mix of uses to support a unique indoor/outdoor experience. The building’s historic façade will remain intact.
What exactly Tom’s Starlight will offer to the community was not outlined in the press release, but it did state the new spot will bring nostalgia and entertainment value, as well as create more than 40 local jobs during renovations. Tom’s Starlight will also support 70 direct and indirect jobs each year once in operation, according to a Rutgers University study.
