Downtown Las Vegas restaurant abruptly closes, some employees laid off: source

LAS VEGAS (KLAS) – There’s a new vacancy inside the Las Vegas motel turned shopping center, Fergusons Downtown, and some employees are alleging the closure was sudden and unpleasant.

Peyote opened its doors in 2021 following the COVID-19 phase openings for businesses, offering guests craft cocktails and Latin-inspired cuisine in the stylish Fergusons Downtown complex.

However, a source who spoke with 8 News Now, said the closure of the restaurant came without any warning to its over 25 employees.

On Sunday night the Peyote staff catered to guests during a private event where the restaurant’s owner, Ryan Doherty, was also in attendance, according to a source.

Monday morning employees received a message in their work group chat that the restaurant would be closing and not all employees would be guaranteed work.

“We have made the decision to cease operations effective immediately,” the text author wrote to employees. “Those of you that are currently employed by Peyote will be notified by telephone today with your next steps.”

Corner Bar Management, the parent company for Peyote, owns several other downtown Las Vegas businesses such as Park on Fremont, Lucky Day, and La Mona Rosa.

A source told 8 News Now most, not all, employees will be offered jobs at other locations owned by Corner Bar Management.

On the Peyote Instagram and website, the restaurant was described as “closed for renovations” but another source confirmed to 8 News Now the location will not be re-opening inside Fergusons Downtown.

Carrieanne Lewis and Mikelle Cieri walked into the Fergusons Downtown complex and said they would miss the fun atmosphere Peyote brought to the area.

“It was so great and so much fun,” Cieri said. “And the patio was awesome.”

Lewis noted although the restaurant is planning to leave the commercial complex, she looks forward to the next business Fergusons Downtown will attract in Peyote’s place.

“I’m sad if they are not going to be here,” Lewis said. “I always love new places that are popping up around here.”

In the last month, Fergusons Downtown has also seen the departure of For the Globe , a vintage market, and the grand opening of Puffcorn LV ,  a gourmet snack shop.

A spokesperson for Fergusons Downtown declined to comment for this story.

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