The Denny’s on Alameda and Santa Fe closed last month without warning. But that was just the latest diner casualty in a city already severely lacking in late night food options. The loss of this particular type of restaurant struck at something deeper for Suzi Q. Smith — the poet, performer, and educator grew up in Denver’s vast constellation of diners, finding a place where she could hang out as a teen with not much money, but a whole lot of time. Suzi explores these sacred places in her Denverse Magazine essay “Toast World: Where Have All the Diners Gone?” Host Bree Davies sits down with her friend to talk about what it means when a city loses its diners.

By focusing on the stories and issues shaping our neighborhoods, City Cast Denver bridges gaps and connects the dots in Denver. Become a member to support local journalism that connects. 

For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm.

Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver

Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver

Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm

What is your all-time favorite “third space” in Denver? Past or present, we want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418‬

If you enjoyed the interview with Ethan Hemming, the President and CEO of Warren Village, learn more here.

Learn more about other the sponsors of this December 5th episode:

Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise