San Diego, CA, January 24, 2026
The iconic Mexican restaurant Las Cuatro Milpas, operated by the Estudillo family since 1933, plans to reopen after selling its original Barrio Logan location. Following the sale for $2.275 million, the family reassures loyal patrons that they are committed to preserving the restaurant’s heritage. Although they face challenges such as financial strain and a temporary closure, the Estudillo family is actively seeking a new site to continue serving their beloved dishes. The community, concerned about the iconic restaurant’s future, eagerly awaits its return.
Las Cuatro Milpas Plans to Reopen in a New Location
San Diego, CA – After nearly a century in Barrio Logan, the iconic Mexican restaurant Las Cuatro Milpas has announced plans to reopen in a new location. The Estudillo family, who have owned and operated the establishment since its founding in 1933, confirmed the sale of their original property and assured the community of their intent to continue the restaurant’s legacy elsewhere.
Sale of Original Property
The property at 1851–1853 Logan Avenue, which housed Las Cuatro Milpas, was sold for $2.275 million to Iglesia del Dios Vivo Columna, Inc., the parent company of La Luz del Mundo, a neighboring religious organization. This sale led to the restaurant’s closure on December 24, 2025, after serving its last meal at the historic location. The Estudillo family emphasized that while the building has been sold, the restaurant itself remains under their ownership and they are actively seeking a new site to reopen.
Community Response and Future Plans
The announcement of the closure and subsequent sale sparked concern among longtime patrons and the Barrio Logan community, who viewed Las Cuatro Milpas as a cultural landmark. In response, the Estudillo family reassured the public of their commitment to the restaurant’s heritage and their plans to reopen soon. They have requested patience during this transition period and expressed gratitude for the community’s support.
Background on Las Cuatro Milpas
Founded by Petra and Natividad Estudillo in 1933, Las Cuatro Milpas became renowned for its handmade tortillas, chorizo con huevos, rice and beans, and rolled tacos. The restaurant operated without pretense, avoiding modern amenities like credit card payments and menu boards, which contributed to its timeless appeal. Over the decades, it survived wars, recessions, and generational shifts, becoming a beloved institution in San Diego’s culinary scene.
Financial Challenges and Closure
In recent years, Las Cuatro Milpas faced financial difficulties, including significant tax debts and a temporary health department closure due to a severe cockroach infestation and structural issues. Despite these challenges, the Estudillo family continued to operate the restaurant, serving a dedicated clientele. The decision to sell the property was influenced by these financial strains and the family’s desire to retire after decades of service.
Looking Ahead
As the Estudillo family works to relocate and reopen Las Cuatro Milpas, they have not disclosed a specific timeline or the new location. The community eagerly awaits the return of this cherished establishment, hoping it will continue to serve its signature dishes and uphold the traditions that have endeared it to generations of San Diegans.
FAQ
Is Las Cuatro Milpas permanently closed?
No, Las Cuatro Milpas is not permanently closed. The Estudillo family has sold the original property but plans to reopen the restaurant in a new location. They are actively seeking a site to continue their operations.
When will Las Cuatro Milpas reopen?
The Estudillo family has not provided a specific timeline for reopening. They are working diligently to find a new location and have requested patience from the community during this transition period.
What led to the closure of the original Las Cuatro Milpas location?
The closure was due to the sale of the property to Iglesia del Dios Vivo Columna, Inc., the parent company of La Luz del Mundo. The Estudillo family faced financial challenges, including significant tax debts and a temporary health department closure, which influenced their decision to sell the property.
Who are the new owners of the Las Cuatro Milpas property?
The property was sold to Iglesia del Dios Vivo Columna, Inc., the parent company of La Luz del Mundo, a neighboring religious organization. The Estudillo family has clarified that while the building has been sold, the restaurant itself remains under their ownership.
What is the history of Las Cuatro Milpas?
Founded in 1933 by Petra and Natividad Estudillo, Las Cuatro Milpas became renowned for its handmade tortillas, chorizo con huevos, rice and beans, and rolled tacos. The restaurant operated without pretense, avoiding modern amenities like credit card payments and menu boards, which contributed to its timeless appeal. Over the decades, it survived wars, recessions, and generational shifts, becoming a beloved institution in San Diego’s culinary scene.
Key Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Original Location | 1851–1853 Logan Avenue, Barrio Logan, San Diego, CA |
| Sale Price | $2.275 million |
| New Owner | Iglesia del Dios Vivo Columna, Inc. (parent company of La Luz del Mundo) |
| Closure Date | December 24, 2025 |
| Founding Year | 1933 |
| Signature Dishes | Handmade tortillas, chorizo con huevos, rice and beans, rolled tacos |
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