Without a word, El Balazo a popular chain of Mexican restaurants closed the doors to all but one of its locations last Wednesday. Maybe it was the economy or maybe it was some other problem. No one at the company is talking.
This one hits close to home. My family and I often enjoyed eating at the El Balazo on Hopyard Rd. in Pleasanton, near the 580 freeway. We enjoyed the casual atmosphere, being able to watch sports on the TVs hung around the restaurant and we especially enjoyed the food. The burritos were huge and delicious.
According to the Contra Costa Times: http://www.contracostatimes.com/business/ci_14666393
A worker who answered the phone at the Haight Street location Friday said that restaurant was still open. However, calls and visits to eight other locations found none open.
A call Friday to the company’s catering line in Danville was answered by a woman who said there would be no comment and hung up.
A former employee who worked for El Balazo for four years and ran security for the chain, said he got a text message shortly before his shift began Wednesday. The man, who did not want his name used for fear of repercussions, said the text said the restaurant was closing all locations at 6 p.m.
He said he and other employees met with a manager Thursday night, who said tax issues led to the closing and that they would not be getting paid for the past week of work. He said about 300 people worked for the company.
Owners Nicole and Marino Sandoval could not be reached for comment. Workers at the recently opened Mama Rosa Pizza and Pasta in Pleasanton, owned by the Sandoval’s son Sebastian Sandoval, said neither he nor other family members were available for comment.
El Balazo had two restaurants in Pleasanton, as well as locations in San Ramon, Danville, Lafeyette and concord, in addition to its original location on Haight St. in San Francisco. Whatever the reason, I’m sorry to see the restaurants closed.
Loading ...
El Balazo Closes its Doors