Martini Ranch and Hiccups III dry up

The Arizona-based Martini Ranch USA, which owns Martini Ranch clubs in Scottsdale and San Diego, abruptly closed its Denver space at 1317 14th Street at the end of July. "Right now it's in negotiations with the chain ownership and a remodel," Jason Witkes, the venue's marketing coordinator, told Jon Solomon, our clubs editor.

We're willing to be it won't reopen as the Martini Ranch, remodeled or not. This space around the corner from Larimer Square, now a hot dining destination, is a valuable piece of real estate, and it may revert to a restaurant again. After all, for many years it was home to Soapy Smith's, a popular restaurant/watering hole. And does anyone remember what fine-dining venture was once located in the basement?

Also closed: Hiccups III, which opened nearly two years ago in the former Brewski's Pub & Grill location at 1451 Cortez Street; the marquee says the spot is for sale. The other two Hiccups locations at 7980 Sheridan Boulevard in Westminster and 10250 Ura Lane in Thornton are still open.