A family-owned Mexican restaurant to close after 44 years in metro Phoenix: 'End of an era'

Serrano's Mexican Food Restaurants is closing the Chandler location on June 1, the family announced in a Facebook post on March 5.

The Serrano's family celebrated the restaurant's 44th birthday last December, but has since listed it for sale.

"As the oldest family owned business in Chandler, we did not make this decision lightly. Our Chandler location is the only one we own outright," the post read. "With the influx of new restaurants downtown, we’ve seen a decline in business over the past few years, and with more than 13,000 square feet, it’s also our most expensive restaurant to operate."

According to the post, the Chandler employees "will be offered employment" at the locations that are remaining open.

Lorraine Serrano poses for a photo with steaming fajitas she prepared in the Downtown Chandler location of her family's restaurant, Serrano's Mexican Restaurant, on July 16, 2019.
Lorraine Serrano poses for a photo with steaming fajitas she prepared in the Downtown Chandler location of her family's restaurant, Serrano's Mexican Restaurant, on July 16, 2019.

"While this marks the end of an era, we are grateful for the many years of memories we’ve made with the community in Chandler – from hosting wedding receptions and memorials to celebrating milestone birthdays and other special occasions."

How to visit Serrano's in Chandler one last time

The original Serrano's banquet rooms will be available until the end of May.

The Queen Creek location and two Mesa locations, plus the family's fast-casual restaurant Pronto will remain open.

Details: 141 S. Arizona Ave., Chandler. 480-899-3318, serranosaz.com.

Recent restaurant closings: include a burger joint and a 44-year-old bar

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This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Metro Phoenix Mexican restaurant closing after 44 years. What to know