CHANDLER, Ariz. — On Saturday, the oldest family-owned business in Chandler will officially close its doors.
The Serranos have been doing business in Chandler for 105 years. For the first 60 years, they sold clothing, only to pivot into the restaurant business. And for the next 45 years they've been serving up their famous Mexican dishes — most of them the family recipes they grew up with.
But now, the family behind Serrano’s Mexican Restaurant is pulling out of Chandler. They say it's not an easy decision.
Declining business and rising competition in Chandler's booming restaurant industry were some of what pushed Rick Serrano to make the difficult decision. And what's more, inflation has pushed operational costs past the point of sustainability.
“It’s generational," Serrano said. "We not only had our family generational business, but our customers the same thing. We fed their mom and dad and then they had kids and they come to us and they had kids. It’s a wonderful family feeling. Truly that’s what we are, is a family business.”
With the upcoming closing, Serrano said all their employees here were offered jobs at their other restaurant locations. Serrano's Mexican Restaurant in Chandler, right next to city hall, is the only building the Serrano family said they own outright. The 13,000 square foot building is up for sale.
Both the Serrano's and their long-time guests were hit hard as they share their last meals together in Chandler. Guests like Jacqueline Soto, who has been eating there with her family for years, say they'll miss the memories.
“We were sad about it because it’s been around for so long," Soto said. "It’s just been a very, a place we gather at. We’ll definitely miss it, but we’re glad to know there are other locations that will still be around.”
Serrano's officially closes Saturday, June 1. There will be a big party with food, drinks and a Mariachi band. There are three other Serrano's full service restaurants open, one in Queen Creek and two in Mesa. There is also a quick service spot in Tempe called Pronto.
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