By definition: The silk road was a vast, interconnected network of ancient overland and maritime trade routes connecting East Asia, the Middle East, North Africa, and Europe. It existed thousands of years ago. Though the name didn’t officially come about until the late 1800s.
Coincidentally, Silk Road is also the name of a store in Denver. They are who this article is about.
Opened by owner, Karla Cernick, in 2004. Silk Road has become a true Gaylord Street staple in the years since. Until now, unfortunately. As explained in their monthly newsletter—I’m going to have to paraphrase here—the former landlord passed away earlier this year, and the family wants a quick turn around on the building.
Silk Road is only one of several changes to Gaylord Street over the past years. I think it all began when one time home store staple, The Tended Thicket closed their doors back in 2019. I’m still bitter about this, especially since it was replaced by office space. The most recent change to the shopping area, aside from Silk Road, was The Wash Park Grille—now renamed The Wash Park Social—changing owners earlier this year. Though to mixed reviews. Personally, I can make a recommendation for the burger.
Starting next week, Silk Road regulars need to look elsewhere for their fix. The store is not closing, merely relocating. Starting in July, Silk Road will be open at a new location. Just up the way on Old South Pearl. Over by Sushi Den and Bird.
“Silk Road is the perfect place to wander … to discover … to find a charming gift for someone you love, and a little something special for yourself,” reads the shop’s website.
Over the years, I have found this to be very true. Whether it’s a sassy dish towel or expensive jewelry—two words: Holly Yashi—Silk Road does seem to have a perfect gift idea for just about anyone. Sure, they have clothes, but other items include lotions, puzzles, coasters, and novelty items. Such as a silicone lid used to keep liquid from boiling or spilling over.
My latest purchase included a fun new addition—which I can only hope that they still have at the new location—sugar cube shaped hand scrub that turns into lotion on your hands while you rinse.
Even in the face of the Trump Administration’s sweeping tariffs, Cernik tried to shoulder the cost burden rather than pass it on to her customers.
Cernik and partner-in-crime, Mary, bid goodbye to the Gaylord Street location in a Facebook post on June 21. Come July, they’re moving into the Pearl Street location.
Photo courtesy of social media
