The Serrano family, which has become a staple in Chandler's culinary scene, is closing the doors of their historic downtown restaurant after 100 years in business. Citing increased competition and high operational costs, the family announced their decision to shut down their iconic eatery by June 1, 2024. The 13,000-square-foot restaurant located near Chandler City Hall has been struggling with a slump in customers, prompting the move. In a heartfelt Instagram post, they expressed gratitude towards their patrons, "We are grateful to all of our customers and employees who have made the past 44 years in Chandler a blessing for our family," the family wrote, as indicated by 12 News.
Ric Serrano, CEO of Serrano's Mexican Restaurants, emphasized the establishment's historical significance and the difficulty of the decision, "As the oldest family-owned business in Chandler, we did not make this decision lightly" he remarked in a statement reported by the Phoenix Business Journal. The property, along with several adjacent parcels, has been listed for sale, extending over three-fourths of an acre. Interestingly, the restaurant has hosted numerous communal festivities, with two large banquet rooms capable of accommodating events like wedding receptions and memorials, only to be finally listed for sale which will end the era it has defined.
The family's restaurant legacy, which began with a dry goods store in 1919 and subsequently flourished into a successful restaurant business in the late 1970s, has been a vital part of East Valley's history. Despite the closing of the downtown Chandler location, their presence in the area will persist, as other Serrano's restaurants throughout the East Valley and a fast-casual concept called Pronto by Serrano's are set to remain open. Addressing the fate of employees at the Chandler location, the Serrano family promised to offer positions at other venues, demonstrating their commitment to their staff.
Alongside the business transition, Serrano's corporate offices will continue their operations in Chandler, sustaining the family's business legacy in the city. Moreover, with the sale of the property facilitated by NAI Horizon representative Lane Neville, a new chapter beckons for the prime downtown estate. "While this marks the end of an era, we are grateful for the many years of memories we’ve made with the community," Ric Serrano said in a touching acknowledgment of the community's support over the years, as per the statement obtained by the Phoenix Business Journal. The Serrano’s building, erected in 1948 according to Maricopa County Assessor records.
