San Diego's 91-year-old landmark, Las Cuatro Milpas, faced further setbacks as it failed its re-inspection by the San Diego County Health Department for "major" vermin violations, among others, on January 10, 2025. This has resulted in the continued closure of the cherished Mexican restaurant located in Barrio Logan.
Las Cuatro Milpas was initially forced to shut down following a routine inspection on December 30, 2024, which revealed multiple health code violations, including a "major" vermin problem. The re-inspection highlighted ongoing issues, specifically Vermin-Major; Plumbing - Out of Compliance; Premises, Vermin-Proofing, Personal/Cleaning Items - Out of Compliance; and Floors, Walls, and Ceilings - Out of Compliance. These violations necessitate further action before Las Cuatro Milpas can resume operations, extending the closure that began at the start of the new year.
Since its establishment in 1933 by Petra and Natividad Estudillo, Las Cuatro Milpas has been a beloved part of San Diego's cultural and culinary landscape, celebrated for its authentic Mexican dishes like homemade tortillas, slow-cooked meats, tamales, and chorizo with eggs. Its traditional charm has attracted a loyal following from both local residents and visitors.
This recent closure comes at a time when the restaurant has already faced significant financial and operational challenges. Earlier in 2024, rumors of closure due to financial strain surfaced, with tax liens amounting to nearly $66,000 at risk of forcing a property auction in mid-2025 if not settled. A GoFundMe initiative to aid the family was launched but halted abruptly
Las Cuatro Milpas has not issued a new statement following the re-inspection but had previously acknowledged the temporary closure on January 2, 2025, stating their intent for a thorough cleaning and pest control treatment, refuting rumors of a permanent shutdown. The community awaits further updates, hoping this beloved institution can overcome these hurdles and continue to enrich San Diego's culinary landscape.
Since its establishment in 1933 by Petra and Natividad Estudillo, Las Cuatro Milpas has been a beloved part of San Diego's cultural and culinary landscape, celebrated for its authentic Mexican dishes like homemade tortillas, slow-cooked meats, tamales, and chorizo with eggs. Its traditional charm has attracted a loyal following from both local residents and visitors.
This recent closure comes at a time when the restaurant has already faced significant financial and operational challenges. Earlier in 2024, rumors of closure due to financial strain surfaced, with tax liens amounting to nearly $66,000 at risk of forcing a property auction in mid-2025 if not settled. A GoFundMe initiative to aid the family was launched but halted abruptly
Las Cuatro Milpas has not issued a new statement following the re-inspection but had previously acknowledged the temporary closure on January 2, 2025, stating their intent for a thorough cleaning and pest control treatment, refuting rumors of a permanent shutdown. The community awaits further updates, hoping this beloved institution can overcome these hurdles and continue to enrich San Diego's culinary landscape.
Las Cuatro Milpas is located at 1857 logan avenue in san diego historic barrio logan. for more information, visit las-cuatro-milpas.com.
Originally published on January 11, 2025.
