Adiós, Little Mexico Restaurant in South Austin

Little Mexico on South First Street has stood for nearly 40 years as the world around it changed. On Feb. 28, the beloved restaurant will serve its last flavorful and nostalgic Mexican food dishes.

Rosa Elia Martinez, the owner of Little Mexico, will close their family business’ doors on their own terms. 

“For us, it’s kind of bittersweet because it’s all changing,” Monica Flores, Martinez’s daughter and restaurant general manager, said. “But we’re excited cause we decided to close and not somebody else trying to push us out.”

Martinez invested 51 years into the restaurant business, and many see Little Mexico as her life’s work. She heads into retirement feeling loved and supported by everyone who has entered her restaurant. 

“Sometimes I feel upset and sometimes I feel very happy,” Martinez said. “My customers have been like family to me for many, many years.” 

IF YOU GO

Where: Little Mexico, 2304 S. 1st St.
When: Updated business hours:  Monday through Thursday from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.
On Fridays until 7 p.m., and on weekends until 5 p.m.

Final Tardeadas: Sun., Feb. 22, from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. with Los Marceles, and
Sat., Feb. 28, from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. with Grupo Cruzante. $15 cover

For More Updates: Visit Little Mexico on Facebook.