Barbara Hardt, Nederland.  Heather Hatwan has spent the last five years building a successful business in Rollinsville. Learning how to ebb and flow with the changing needs of a small community. Hiring local staff and training them to offer the best service available in north Gilpin County. Providing delectable treats, down home and exquisite dining experiences to the local masses.

And now, she’s moved her business model into Nederland. With an old name, and a new twist on an old idea, Heather has opened the Branding Iron in Nederland’s downtown district. But don’t worry, you’ll still get the same steady service, familiar faces and excellent menu. The bar will boast 15 craft beers on tap.

The original Branding Iron menu had three options. You could order steak, chicken or roguefort salad.

According to the building owner, Ron Mitchell, “The original Branding Iron, opened in the late 1940’s and was run by Gladys Ayers, whose vocabulary contained many sailors’ colorful words, which she frequently used. She personally provided a unique atmosphere and reputation for the place. It burnt down in the late 1950’s. It was Nederland’s premier hamburger joint, which was later rebuilt as an Italian restaurant and has had seven different names since then.” Mitchell had his first job in college, as a dishwasher there.

The Branding Iron name will remain with the building, licensed to Heather, and owned by the Nederland Central Business District Redevelopment, LLC. The name will move forward with the new development, soon to be proposed by Mitchell.

The new restaurant is continuing most of the Stage Stop menu, as well as adding in a Cuban, family style option, with shared tables and new tastes. She’s also adding in Salmon, a Ribeye steak and Buffalo choices. She’ll carry her famous Eggs Benedict, six days per week.

The Branding Iron restaurant will be open from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily, with the bar open until Midnight.

Plans are underway to continue the music traditions of locals with thel Bluegrass Jam on Thursday’s. The Pro pick will run from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. and the Open pick will be from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. All ages, abilities and levels of musicians are welcome.

The new pool table will offer a chance to test your skills and a tournament with another local restaurant will be planned in the near future.

The new location already has the old feel of the mountains. With an inviting atmosphere and already old memories, patrons will feel right at home.

Stop in and check out the new location at 35 E. First St., Nederland.

(Originally published in the July 19, 2018, print edition of The mountain-Ear.)