After almost a decade in the historic Elks Lodge building at 210 S. Galena St., management has closed the door to the rock n' roll eatery, deciding not to renew its lease. With seating for only 50 people and 14 tables, it was the smallest of the chain's 105 restaurants. To add to the mountain environment, skis from local champions Stein Ericksen and Bill Johnson hang on the walls.

Officials from the chain say they are looking for a larger venue. But observers say they are not surprised that it has closed, given that Aspen's retail space is the highest in the state, going for up to $125 per sf.

The departure leaves only Denver's CBD as the site of a Hard Rock Café in Colorado. A Planet Hollywood in downtown Aspen had closed two years ago.