Eight Filiberto’s Locations Close in Arizona

Categories: Arizona Business NewsArizona State News

A closed Filiberto's Mexican Restaurant, leaving customers concerned.

News Summary

Eight Filiberto’s Mexican Restaurants have abruptly closed across Arizona, leaving customers confused. The closures stem from unforeseen medical issues concerning the owner. With a legacy of 30 years in Arizona, the well-loved chain’s sudden exit raises concerns about the future and management of these locations. Loyal patrons took to social media to express their worries and seek clarification. As the community grapples with these changes, many are left searching for alternatives to the beloved 24/7 drive-thru restaurants that offered iconic burritos.

Arizona – In a shocking turn of events, eight Filiberto’s Mexican Restaurants across Arizona have closed their doors, leaving customers and the community in a state of confusion and concern. The sudden closures, which took place without prior notice, have raised many questions among loyal patrons who discovered signs on the restaurant doors merely stating “closed.”

The closures have affected locations in various cities, including Phoenix, Avondale, Apache Junction, Chandler, Peoria, and Scottsdale. These restaurants are well-known for their 24/7 drive-thru service and iconic burritos, which have garnered a loyal following over the years. Customers took to social media platforms like Reddit to express their bewilderment, sharing their experiences and seeking answers about the unexpected situation.

The official reason for these abrupt closures pertains to “unforeseen medical issues” involving the owner, John Schwimmer. Schwimmer is affiliated with the Compadres Group, which is known for managing several of the Filiberto’s locations. Additionally, concerns have been voiced regarding the future management of these closed establishments, with hopes that Cesar Tenorio, a member of the founding family, may take over the locations.

Despite the popularity of Filiberto’s, some customers have complained that rising costs have led to a decline in their visits to the chain, further complicating the situation surrounding the closures. As recently as 2023, the chain celebrated its 30th anniversary in Arizona, reflecting its deep-rooted presence in the state. Originally beginning in San Diego, Filiberto’s has become a beloved Arizona institution, often cited as a model for other establishments trying to replicate its success.

Reports indicate that in 2018, there were a total of 79 Filiberto’s locations throughout Arizona, showcasing the brand’s growth and popularity over the years. However, it remains unclear whether the eight locations that have recently shut down were all under the same franchisee or if they had different owners, adding to the uncertainty surrounding the situation.

Residents and regular customers had begun discussing the developments surrounding the closures on June 6, with particular focus on specific locations, including those found on 19th Avenue and 83rd Avenue. Some of the signs posted at the closed restaurants hinted that the closures might be permanent, a prospect that has sparked concern for many fans of the chain.

Despite numerous inquiries from the media, Filiberto’s has yet to provide any feedback or statements about the circumstances leading to these abrupt restaurant shutdowns. The lack of communication has only fueled speculation and worries about the future of the remaining locations in the chain.

As the community waits for more information, the impact of these closures is already being felt. Customers who relied on Filiberto’s for meals and quick snacks are now left searching for alternatives, questioning what led to such a significant and unexpected shift in the landscape of a beloved local dining option. Whether these closings will be temporary or permanent remains to be seen, and the future of Filiberto’s in Arizona may hinge on upcoming developments and decisions by the company’s management and ownership.