Located in the heart of San Diego's historic Barrio Logan, this family-run establishment has been a cornerstone of traditional Mexican cuisine since it first opened in 1933. Founded by Petra and Natividad Estudillo, Las Cuatro Milpas began as a humble eatery offering homemade tortillas and simple yet flavorful dishes inspired by the recipes passed down through generations.
The name "Las Cuatro Milpas" refers to the cornfields that symbolize sustenance and tradition in Mexican culture, which have remained central to the restaurant’s identity. Over the decades, it has stayed true to its roots, maintaining its old-world charm with its famous hand-rolled tortillas, slow-cooked meats, and classic offerings like rolled tacos, tamales, burritos, rice & beans, and chorizo with eggs.
Las Cuatro Milpas has earned a reputation not just for its food, but for its longstanding connection to the community. Despite its no-frills decor and long lines that often stretch down the block, the restaurant has managed to attract a loyal following of locals and visitors alike. Notable patrons over the years include politicians, actors, and even food critics who have praised the establishment for its authenticity and consistency.
The rumor of Las Cuatro Milpas closure began last week with a since-deleted Reddit thread. We were then told by an industry friend, who happens to be a weekly visitor to the restaurant, that one of the owners told them they would be closing within the next year.
We were then informed that The Light of the World Church, located next door, may be in the process of or is trying to purchase the building that has long housed Las Cuatro Milpas, which some said to be the reason behind the restaurant's anticipated closure. We attempted to contact the church several times but their phone is perpetually busy. Upon contacting the San Diego County Assessor, we were informed that the building (Assessor parcel numbers 538-250-21-00 and 538-250-22-00) is still owned by the Estudillo Manuel Family Trust.
We called the eatery directly on Monday morning and spoke to two employees, one who said they will close at some point in 2025, possibly as early as January or February. We were then put on the phone with a second person and explicitly told that the restaurant had sold, precipitated by the illness of an integral family member.
Some members of the Estudillo family have since come forward and said any information about a sale or impending closure is completely false. An Instagram page was also started following the publication of this post, and the below statement was issued.
Reports of the potential closure of the restaurant have left many in San Diego's culinary community saddened by the possible end of an era. As the neighborhood of Barrio Logan continues to evolve and face pressures from gentrification, the fate of Las Cuatro Milpas hangs in the balance. This is far from the first time rumors of the restaurant's possible closure have circulated.
"They’ve been saying this since I was a little kid," wrote one commenter. "I'm 33 now."
For generations, Las Cuatro Milpas has been more than just a restaurant - it's a cultural landmark, symbolizing the perseverance of a family business that has maintained its place in the community for nearly a century. With rumors of its impending closure, San Diego will certainly line up in even greater numbers to possibly say goodbye to a cherished institution that has shaped the culinary landscape of the city for generations. And if gossip turns out to be "fake news," we are all better off for it.
Las Cuatro Milpas is located at 1857 Logan Avenue in San Diego's Barrio Logan. For more information, visit las-cuatro-milpas.com.
Las Cuatro Milpas is located at 1857 Logan Avenue in San Diego's Barrio Logan. For more information, visit las-cuatro-milpas.com.
This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.
Originally published on October 21, 2024.
