Noted chef Walter Manzke's modern Mexican eatery, Petty Cash Taquería, has unveiled its unexpected closure following a productive ten-year run on Beverly Boulevard in Los Angeles, as reported by Eater. Established in May 2013 in partnership with restaurant owner Bill Chait, Petty Cash Taquería gained popularity for its Baja-centric tacos and lesser-known agave drinks such as sotol and bacanora.
The eatery's closure was announced via Instagram stating: "Since opening our doors in 2013, we have relished every moment of serving our community. It is with great sadness that we announce our closure today, October 20, 2023. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has patronized us over the past decade" as stated on the restaurant's Instagram page.
While Manzke described the decision to cease operations as "difficult" and "disheartening", he didn't to share the specific reasons for the decision publicly. The restaurant's team discovered the closure just hours before the public announcement. Loyal customers of Petty Cash Taquería were not afforded an opportunity to say goodbye to a restaurant that had influenced Los Angeles's Mexican cuisine for the past decade.
In the latest edition of the Michelin Guide, Petty Cash's inclusion highlights its importance within the Los Angeles food industry. The guide praised the energetic dining room, the mezcal selections, and the blue-corn tortilla tacos, which, although slightly expensive, were deemed worthy of the cost according to Eater.
Manzke's contribution to the Los Angeles culinary world is evident. His innovative style of modern Mexican cuisine has captivated many diners and critics. Furthermore, Petty Cash Taquería provided a unique culinary journey for Mexican food lovers in the city, blending traditional ingredients with modern interpretations.
The abrupt closure of Petty Cash Taquería will indubitably create a void among city's food adventurers. With restaurants grappling with the continually evolving dining scene, the contributions of forward-thinking eateries like Petty Cash are not easily erased. It remains uncertain if the Manzkes plan to embark on new ventures or if they will concentrate solely on their existing Los Angeles restaurants and expanding Wildflour Bakery enterprise in the Philippines.
As a city that values diverse food culture, Petty Cash Taquería's legacy will endure, reflecting Los Angeles's rich food heritage. The restaurant's closure will certainly not diminish the joy and experiences it once offered to its guests.
