After a lengthy selection process, City of Aspen staff will recommend the Aspen Public House to rent the restaurant space in the Wheeler Opera House.
The proposal from Bill Johnson, who currently runs Capitol Creek Brewery in Willits, most closely meets the criteria for the subsidized space, said assistant city manager Sara Ott.
Aspen Public House will offer breakfast, lunch and dinner, with what Ott described as Colorado-inspired comfort food. The proposal says the restaurant will remain open with reduced offerings in shoulder seasons.
Lease negotiations are still underway, but the city estimates an annual rent of $188,000. The revenue from that supports non-profit arts grants.
City council will discuss the recommendation tomorrow night and could make a decision at a meeting next week.
