Located on Logan Avenue in the heart of San Diego's historic Barrio Logan community, Las Cuatro Milpas has been a cornerstone of traditional Mexican cuisine in San Diego since it was founded by Petra and Natividad Estudillo in 1933. The family-run eatery gained fame for its homemade tortillas, slow-cooked meats, and authentic dishes like rolled tacos, tamales, burritos, and chorizo with eggs. Its simplicity and authenticity have made it a favorite among locals and visitors, including notable patrons such as politicians, actors, and food critics.
The restaurant's recent closure follows a December 30, 2024, inspection by health officials, which identified significant violations, including a vermin issue categorized as "major." Officials ordered the establishment to close temporarily to address these concerns, though the restaurant was reportedly already shut for the holiday season. A similar temporary closure was required in early 2022 due to comparable issues. While the owners of Las Cuatro Milpas have not yet commented publicly, reports indicate they plan to reopen as soon as January 6, 2025.
This development adds to a challenging year for Las Cuatro Milpas. Earlier in 2024, rumors of an impending closure due to financial difficulties caused an uproar among San Diegans. Tax records first published by San Diego Union-Tribune revealed that the Estudillo family's property was at risk of default, with nearly $50,000 owed in overdue property taxes and an additional $16,000 in state sales taxes. These debts sparked concerns about a potential forced asset sale, which could occur as early as mid-2025 if unresolved. A GoFundMe campaign launched by local real estate broker Nate Benedetto aimed to support the family, raising over $4,000, but was quickly shut down for an undisclosed reason.
The recent closure has heightened fears that Las Cuatro Milpas' days may be numbered. As one of Barrio Logan’s cultural landmarks, the restaurant symbolizes the resilience of family-owned businesses in the face of gentrification and rising costs. For over nine decades, it has remained a vital part of the community, drawing long lines of loyal patrons eager to experience its rich flavors and history.
Despite these challenges, the Estudillo family has maintained a steadfast commitment to keeping Las Cuatro Milpas alive. As Margarita Hernandez, a family member, told the San Diego Union-Tribune earlier this year, "I’m getting sick and I’m getting older, but we’re going to try to fix this. But if someone can help me - I just need help from somebody."
For now, the future of Las Cuatro Milpas remains uncertain. Whether it reopens as planned or faces further setbacks, the restaurant’s legacy as a culinary institution in San Diego is undeniable. Its fate underscores the broader challenges faced by long-standing family businesses in rapidly changing neighborhoods. San Diegans are hopeful that this beloved institution will overcome these obstacles and continue to serve as a testament to the city’s vibrant cultural and culinary heritage.
The recent closure has heightened fears that Las Cuatro Milpas' days may be numbered. As one of Barrio Logan’s cultural landmarks, the restaurant symbolizes the resilience of family-owned businesses in the face of gentrification and rising costs. For over nine decades, it has remained a vital part of the community, drawing long lines of loyal patrons eager to experience its rich flavors and history.
Despite these challenges, the Estudillo family has maintained a steadfast commitment to keeping Las Cuatro Milpas alive. As Margarita Hernandez, a family member, told the San Diego Union-Tribune earlier this year, "I’m getting sick and I’m getting older, but we’re going to try to fix this. But if someone can help me - I just need help from somebody."
For now, the future of Las Cuatro Milpas remains uncertain. Whether it reopens as planned or faces further setbacks, the restaurant’s legacy as a culinary institution in San Diego is undeniable. Its fate underscores the broader challenges faced by long-standing family businesses in rapidly changing neighborhoods. San Diegans are hopeful that this beloved institution will overcome these obstacles and continue to serve as a testament to the city’s vibrant cultural and culinary heritage.
Following the publication of this news, Las Cuatro Milpas released the below statement:
Las Cuatro Milpas Temporarily Closed for Deep Cleaning and Pest ControlSan Diego, January 2, 2025: Las Cuatro Milpas is temporarily closed for deep cleaning and pest control treatment. This proactive measure is being taken to ensure the highest standards of cleanliness and safety for our valued customers and staff.Recent rumors circulating about the permanent closure of Las Cuatro Milpas are false. We are committed to resolving this issue quickly and reopening our doors to the public as soon as possible.We understand that this temporary closure may cause inconvenience to our customers, and we sincerely apologize for any disruption this may cause. We are diligently working with professional pest control experts to address this situation and ensure the safety and well-being of our community.We will provide updates on our reopening date through our social media channels and website. We appreciate your understanding and continued support.The Estudillo FamilyLas Cuatro Milpas
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 January 1, 2025.
