SAN ANTONIO – After more than 40 years of service, Gilbert’s Mexican Restaurant announced it will close its doors after this weekend.
Ashley Rodriguez Herrera, the second-generation owner of Gilbert’s Mexican Restaurant, shared the news on Friday on social media.
“This restaurant has always been more than just a business,” Herrera said in part. “It has been a home. It is where families have gathered, celebrations have been held, and generations have shared meals together.”
In the post, Herrera also thanked both past and present team members and expressed her gratitude towards the restaurant’s “loyal customers.”
“There are no words to express how much your love and support have meant to us over the years,” she said. “You didn’t just walk through our doors. You brought your stories, laughter, and lives with you. You have made all of this worth it.”
On Sunday morning, customers waited for more than an hour outside of the door, in line to support the restaurant one last time.
“I’ve known Gilbert ever since I was 5 years old,” said lifelong friend and customer Anthony Padilla. “I can’t imagine not coming here after mass on Sundays.”
“To this day, you know, I just listen to his old music and stuff. He’s just, like I said, fantastic. Just a legend,” said weekly customer Deborah Duarte. “We’ve had to wait about an hour to get our food, but it’s all worth it.”
Gilberts Mexican Restaurant, located at 8138 Marbach Road Suite 102, will have its last service day on Sunday, Jan. 26. They will be open from 8 a.m. until they sell out, according to the restaurant.
Herrera says that in the wake of an uncertain future, she wants these customers to share this love with other mom-and-pop restaurants.
“So many mom and pops have closed in San Antonio, and we were very fortunate and blessed to stay open this long. So I’m telling everybody, don’t just stop here with me. What about the other moms and pops that are out there that are really struggling?”
In a separate Facebook post, the restaurant mentions a fundraising effort started by a neighbor with hopes that the community can help keep its doors open.
“The reality is this: we need to raise $15,000 to continue serving our beloved community,” the post stated.
