Decatur Bids Farewell to Chando’s Tacos After a Year of Flavor
In a surprising turn of events for the dining scene in Decatur, the beloved Chando’s Tacos has closed its doors after just about a year in business. Located at 254 W. Ponce de Leon Ave., Chando’s was known for its scrumptious Tijuana-style street tacos and other delightful offerings. While many locals were thrilled to welcome this vibrant establishment, it seems that the taco truck that brought smiles and flavor is no longer on the menu.
Rumors of the closing spread quickly after keen-eyed residents noticed staff loading tables and chairs into a moving truck. To add to the intrigue, the Chando’s Tacos location has disappeared from the restaurant’s website, leaving fans wondering what happened to their authentic taco fix. Despite multiple attempts to reach out for comments, the restaurant has yet to respond.
A Brief but Flavorful Journey
Chando’s Tacos made its grand debut on September 18, 2023, after a long wait that began back in February 2022 when they first hinted at setting up a food truck in the area. Owner Lisandro “Chando” Madrigal had expressed his excitement about joining the Decatur community, stating, “We are super excited to be a part of the community and are very sorry this has taken so long to open, but good food is coming.” With all the hype surrounding the restaurant after its opening, it’s sad to see it close so abruptly.
The closure of this local taco haven also comes on the heels of another setback for Chando’s. They previously shuttered a location in Buckhead in August. Now, their website lists no establishments in the metro Atlanta area, though multiple locations remain active in California. What a bittersweet turn for fans of their delicious burritos, quesadillas, and those unforgettable mulitas!
Changes in the Decatur Culinary Landscape
The taco farewell isn’t the only change happening around town. Just a few weeks ago, Boho 115, a seafood restaurant located on Decatur Square, announced its closure as well. Its owners shared the news in a heartfelt Facebook post, expressing gratitude for the support they’d received since opening in February 2022. They aimed to bring a unique seafood concept to the area but ultimately decided to close after considering their journey.
Before Boho 115, Decatur’s culinary community also said goodbye to Lenox Cupcakes in August. Though the Decatur location has closed, the team is still serving up sweet treats from their Chamblee shop. Their heartfelt message conveyed appreciation for the memorable times shared with the community.
As if that wasn’t enough, Chef Winnie’s Kitchen, famous for its authentic Ethiopian flavors, will also close soon. The restaurant announced it would wrap up operations on November 10. Originally opened by Woinshet Legesse Emory, Chef Winnie’s was the anchor of a bustling establishment aimed at serving the surrounding refugee population before making its transition in February to a new location.
Changes Bring New Opportunities
With all this closing news, it can feel a little overwhelming, but change often paves the way for fresh opportunities! It’s a chance for other culinary creatives in Decatur to step up and fill the gaps left by these closures. While it’s sad to see beloved eateries leave, the melting pot of flavors that characterizes Decatur is always evolving.
For those in the community who have had a meal at Chando’s or any of the departing restaurants, it’s a moment to cherish those memories. And while the current landscape is shifting, Decatur remains a feast of flavors and a warm community where food brings everyone closer. Let’s keep an eye out for what exciting new spots will pop up next!
To stay updated on all things Decatur, remember to keep checking in with your local community channels. Here’s to hoping the next wave of deliciousness is just around the corner!
