Denver reverses course on liquor license for El Jebel event venue

The El Jebel Shrine in Denver Gets Closer to Obtaining Liquor License

Non Plus Ultra, the California company behind the renovation of Denver’s historic Mosque of the El Jebel Shrine into an event venue, is now able to pursue a liquor license. The city recently reversed its decision regarding the proximity of the 120-year-old building to a school, allowing Non Plus Ultra to move forward with their plans.

Having already invested over $300,000 in refinishing floors and repairing plumbing at 1770 N. Sherman St., Non Plus Ultra has been operating events at the venue with short-term liquor permits. They have been seeking a more permanent liquor license since February 2024.

The initial denial of the liquor license was based on Denver’s regulation prohibiting liquor sales within 500 feet of a school. However, after a series of appeals and legal actions, the city and Non Plus Ultra reached an agreement on the measurement starting point for the distance calculation.

Following a recommendation from the city’s Department of Excise and Licenses, the denial of the liquor license was withdrawn, allowing Non Plus Ultra to proceed with the application process. While neighbors will have the opportunity to provide input, the proximity to a school will no longer be a determining factor.

As a result of these developments, Non Plus Ultra has dropped their lawsuit against the city. The future of El Jebel Shrine, currently in foreclosure and under the management of a receiver, remains uncertain as plans for auction are underway.

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