‘We will remain open’: California’s beloved Acapulco restaurant delays closure following massive support from fans

A long-running chapter in California dining took an unexpected turn after an emotional wave of public support pushed Acapulco Restaurant to reconsider shutting down. Just days after announcing that it would close its doors following 57 years in business, the iconic Mexican restaurant shared a new update saying it would now remain open “until further notice.”

The restaurant said the decision came directly from the overwhelming response it received from customers and longtime supporters. In March, the Director of Community Development conditionally approved a design review to demolish the restaurant and replace it with a two-story, 5,878-square-foot self-service car wash on a 46,432-square-foot lot.

In its latest Instagram update, the restaurant wrote: “For over 57 years, Acapulco has been more than just a restaurant—it’s been family, traditions, and memories shared around the table.


This past week, your love and support reminded us just how much this place means. Because of you, our company has decided to fight to stay open. We will remain open until further notice. We want to be clear—this isn’t a promotion or a tactic. It’s a heartfelt decision inspired by our community.”

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Fans flooded the comments section with emotional reactions after Acapulco Restaurant announced it would remain open until further notice, with many celebrating the decision and criticizing plans to replace the longtime restaurant with a car wash.

Several supporters urged others to help save the restaurant permanently. One commenter wrote, “Everyone sign the petition to boycott the proposed car wash. The community is fighting to keep Acapulco!”

Others questioned why a beloved local dining spot would be replaced at all. “We don't need another car wash, we need more quality good food restaurants,” one user commented.

Some fans also pointed to the restaurant’s long history in Glendale, arguing that its cultural value goes beyond business. One commenter noted that properties in Glendale are generally expected to be at least 50 years old to qualify as historic landmarks and suggested Acapulco’s decades-long presence in the community should matter.

Many reactions focused on the memories tied to the restaurant and its employees. “Closing over a carwash blows my mind,” one person wrote, adding that Acapulco and its staff had “bring joy to so many and a sense of community” for decades.

The emotional message came shortly after the restaurant had publicly announced plans to shut down on Mother's Day, May 10. At the time, the team had shared a farewell statement with customers, writing, "After 57 incredible years, Acapulco Restaurant will be closing our doors on May 10th.”

The restaurant also invited customers for the last time for a Mother’s day Brunch. Acapulco Restaurant and Cantina, owned by Xperience Restaurant Group, once operated as many as 39 locations across California and beyond before gradually downsizing over the years.

Reports also indicate that once this unit closes, the final surviving restaurant will be at 6270 Pacific Coast Highway in Long Beach. The struggle is not isolated. Several Mexican dining chains have been shrinking operations amid financial pressure and restructuring efforts.

Brands like On The Border Mexican Grill & Cantina, Abuelo’s, and Taco Cabana have also closed multiple underperforming locations in recent years.