Austin’s South First Street is set to lose a beloved landmark as Little Mexico, a restaurant serving Tex-Mex and interior Mexican cuisine, closes its doors on February 28th after 34 years at its current location.
A Legacy on South First
Rosa Martinez first opened Little Mexico in North Austin in 1986. The restaurant relocated south of Oltorf Road on South First Street in 1992, before settling on the land she purchased at 2304 S. First St. in 1994. Martinez, a native of Monterrey, Mexico, expressed a mix of emotions about the closure, stating, “I’m happy and kind of sad,” and acknowledging her customers as “like family.”
More Than Just a Restaurant
Little Mexico has served as a community hub for decades, offering dishes like tacos, migas, and pork adobo. The restaurant also hosted meetings for the Tejano Music Coalition and welcomed live performances from artists including Susan Torres y Conjunto Clemencia and Conjunto Los Pinky’s.
What’s Next?
Martinez is retiring from the restaurant business, but will not be selling the property, which the Travis County Appraisal District has assessed at approximately $3 million. She has already secured a new tenant for the space, though the identity of the new business remains undisclosed. It is possible the new tenant will bring a different type of business to the area. The future use of the property could significantly impact the character of South First Street.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will Little Mexico close?
Little Mexico’s last day of business will be February 28th.
Who owns the land where Little Mexico is located?
Rosa Martinez owns the land and is renting it to a new tenant.
What kind of food did Little Mexico serve?
Little Mexico served Tex-Mex and interior Mexican cuisine, including tacos, migas, and pork adobo.
What memories do you have of local restaurants that have shaped your community?
