A beloved Englewood restaurant is closing its doors after 45 years in business.
El Tepehuan opened in 1978, but it’s closing Dec. 31. The owner is ready to retire and spend more time with her family.
“That’s why I am sad, I am leaving and they wanted me to continue for more years. I wanted to but now I don’t,” said Graciela Corral, the owner of El Tepehuan.
Corral has owned the beloved neighborhood restaurant for more than 30 years. Her husband opened the original location down the street 45 years ago. Corral took it over when he died in a car accident.
“I didn’t know much about what I had to do here in the restaurant but I learned,” Corral said. “I didn’t think I’d be able to. The other place was smaller and it was my dream to have my own place. This is my own place.”
She brought her loyal customers with her to this location in 2017. “Just the flavor, just good,” said James Chirstman, a loyal customer.
“A lot of good people in the community have supported me a lot after my husband died,” Corral said.
The Christmans hope to make it back one more time before the doors close for good.
“We like it here,” Christman said. “We hate to see it go.”
“I feel emotional,” Corral said. “I feel good that the community has responded very well and I thank everyone in the community.”
You can visit El Tephuan before they close Dec. 31 at 3495 S. Broadway or call them at 303-781-0243.
Source: 9News
