Las Cuatro Milpas, one of San Diego’s most cherished Mexican restaurants, is rumored to be closing after 91 years in Barrio Logan. Despite statements from the family denying any plans to close or sell, persistent rumors, alleged tax liens, and reported property default issues cast doubt on the restaurant's future.
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 ongoing rumor of Las Cuatro Milpas closure resurfaced 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 directly they would be closing within the next year.
We received reports that The Light of the World Church, located next door to Las Cuatro Milpas, might be attempting to purchase the building housing the historic restaurant, fueling speculation about its possible closure. Multiple attempts to contact the church were unsuccessful, as their phone line remained busy. Family members acknowledged that the church has long been interested in acquiring the property. However, supporting the family's assertions, the San Diego County Assessor confirmed the buildings (Assessor parcel numbers 538-250-21-00 and 538-250-22-00) are still owned by the Estudillo Manuel Family Trust.
We called the eatery directly on Monday morning and spoke with 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 twice that the restaurant had sold, precipitated by the illness of an integral family member.
Following the circulation of this news, members of the Estudillo family came 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 a statement was issued.
Despite efforts by the family to dismiss rumors of its closure, the future of Las Cuatro Milpas remains uncertain. As reported by the San Diego Union-Tribune, county tax records reveal that the property where the restaurant has operated for over 90 years, and an adjoining family-owned parcel, are in default on nearly $40-50,000 in property taxes accrued over the past four years.
Additionally, the U-T reports that a state tax lien indicates the restaurant owes $16,000 in sales taxes to California, adding further financial strain. If these outstanding taxes remain unpaid, a state-mandated sale of the property could occur as soon as June of next year.
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.
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.
Originally published on October 21, 2024. This is a developing story that is updated as more information becomes available.