After over 30 years of sizzling fajitas and poured margaritas, Cactus Pear, a cherished Southwestern restaurant in Cincinnati's Clifton neighborhood, is shutting down. The owner announced the closure via social media, marking January 20 as the finale for a place that's become a staple near the University of Cincinnati and beyond. "We appreciate the decades of loyal regulars and valued customers that have made Cactus Pear a staple of the Clifton and Cincinnati communities," said the restaurant in a statement obtained by Local12. Patrons are encouraged to drop by during its last week of operation or to join for one final Margarita Monday.
Notably, Cactus Pear is just one of several restaurants in the Tri-State area to announce a closure, following the trend of Opal Rooftop in Covington and various dining establishments at Newport on the Levee. "The restaurant is one of many in the Tri-State to announce a closure," detailed a report from WCPO. Moreover, recent closures have also included Habanero in Clifton and other beloved locales like Rich's Proper and Omar's Hangry Slider Shack.
The outpour of reactions from the community underscores the restaurant's importance to its patrons. For years, Cactus Pear's Mexican specialties and award-winning margaritas, often ranked in CityBeat's Best of Cincinnati Readers Poll, have been a part of the area's culinary landscape. Reflecting on their years of service, the restaurant's Facebook page shared, "We thank you again for all of your support over the years."
Located at 3215 Jefferson Ave., Cactus Pear's upcoming closure will leave a notable gap in the neighborhood's dining scene. According to a CityBeat article, the owner provided no specific reason for the closing. While visitors can still enjoy their favorites until January 20, the announcement indeed comes as a bittersweet moment for the establishment's staff and its loyal clientele.
