Abilene community sells out Gloria’s Grill 1 day after closure announcement: ‘We thought we had enough food’
ABILENE, Texas (KTAB/KRBC) – Gloria’s Grill in Abilene first opened its doors in 1996, being known by man for cooking up the best burgers in town. Now, some 27+ years later, its owners have made the tough but important decision to, as they put it, hang up their spatulas.
Abilene staple; Gloria’s Grill announces closure after 27+ years
For many people like Annie Martinez, Gloria’s Grill became a regular spot to dine, “We do the parade, the Christmas parade, and they actually stay open later so after everyone was done with the parade, we would go in here.”
Owner Gloria Hermosillo told KTAB/KRBC she was grateful towards the Abilene community, but it’s time to retire.
“It’s time. We’ve been here 27-and-a-half years, and my husband just turned 65 and he decided no more. So, we’re closing for that reason,” shared Hermosillo.
After making an announcement of closure Monday night, Gloria’s Grill was overwhelmed by regulars and first timers alike who visited Tuesday for lunch.
“We did 200 burgers so far, and we’re not done. It’s absolutely amazing,” Hermosillo took pride in her business and customers. “I thought we would run out of food. We thought we had enough food for three to four days, we did three or four days’ food in one day.”
Proud to see the impact she leaves behind, Hermosillo partially revealed the secret to the so-called “best burgers in Abilene.”
“They’re made with love, and we do a whole lot of things most people don’t do. We still patty out our hamburger patty every single day,” divulged Hermosillo.
Now, that love is needed elsewhere. As she looks forward to retirement and spending time with her family, Hermosillo will be taking the process of her famous burgers with her.
“We have a secret of what we do with our meat and stuff, which we will not tell,” Hermosillo teased.
Secret ingredient or process aside, the joy those burgers have brought to Abilene over the years won’t soon be forgotten.
“The food was awesome,” said Martinez as she moved to address Gloria’s Grill. “Thank you very much for being a part of Abilene. We’re going to miss you.”
Although the grills won’t be hot for much longer, locals will always remember the warm memories made.
Gloria’s Grill will close after 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 21. The restaurant is located at 228 Chestnut Street, catty corner from the Taylor County Courthouse.
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