Brinkerhoff files lawsuit over La Loma restaurants

Family Feud: The Brinkerhoffs’ Battle Over La Loma Restaurants

Despite publicly stating that they have moved on from the acrimonious divorce proceedings that tore apart their restaurant empire, Renee Brinkerhoff is now embroiled in a court battle with her ex-husband over the control of their eateries.

In a lawsuit filed on Sept. 19, Renee alleges that her ex-husband, along with a family friend, is plotting to take back the La Loma restaurants by demanding $4.5 million from her. This alleged scheme comes at a challenging financial time for Renee, who recently opened new locations in Parker and Greenwood Village while trying to revive the struggling La Loma in McGregor Square.

Gene Atkinson, the family friend accused of being involved in the scheme, vehemently denies the allegations, stating that his intention has always been to support Renee’s success. However, the ongoing legal battle reveals a complex web of financial disputes and personal vendettas.

The Brinkerhoffs’ marriage and business partnership dates back to 1979 when they first acquired a stake in La Loma. However, their relationship took a sour turn, leading to a contentious divorce that was finalized last year. The divorce settlement revealed that Renee had owned half of the La Loma restaurants and their real estate until her ex-husband allegedly orchestrated a plan to remove her from the business.

Atkinson, who has been a longtime collaborator with the Brinkerhoffs on various projects, found himself caught in the crossfire of their legal battle. He claims to have invested significant time and resources into building the La Loma locations in Parker and the Tech Center, only to be abruptly fired after seeking payment following the divorce settlement.

While Renee accuses Atkinson of shoddy workmanship and overbilling, he maintains that he and his family have suffered financial hardship due to unpaid dues for their construction services. The feud escalates as both parties file lawsuits and counterclaims against each other, further muddying the waters of their already complex legal entanglement.

As the legal drama unfolds, the fate of the La Loma restaurants hangs in the balance. While Atkinson questions Renee’s financial struggles given her substantial divorce settlement, she continues to fight for control over the establishments she claims as rightfully hers.

Amidst the legal wrangling and personal accusations, the future of the Brinkerhoffs’ once-thriving restaurant empire remains uncertain, overshadowed by the bitter aftermath of a failed marriage and a fractured business partnership.

For more insights on this ongoing saga, visit our partner site, BusinessDen.