Papa Gallo was a beloved Mexican restaurant in Fayetteville, New York, that served authentic Mexican food for 17 years. After almost two decades in Syracuse, the eatery is closing its doors and making way for newer generations of Mexican chefs, as stated on its social media, website, and a sign where the restaurant previously occupied space.
Highlights
- Papa Gallo closed its doors after 17 years on June 4, 2025.
- The restaurant was owned and operated by Jason Thomas.
- The space will be handed over to new owners who plan to renovate it into a fusion Mexican-Peruvian restaurant.
Papa Gallo Closes After 17 Years
On June 4, 2025, Papa Gallo posted a note on their social media announcing their closure. The note read, “Papa Gallo has closed its doors after 17 years of business. We would like to send a warm thank you to all of our customers and employees over the years.”
“The hard decision to close was made with our lease nearing its end and an opportunity to transition the business to a new ownership presenting itself,” the note continued. “The new owners will bring a dynamic new restaurant to the area. Renovations and new energy will be a great addition to the Fayetteville dining scene. Keep your eye out for updates in the future.”
Future Plans for the Restaurant
However, it is not all sad news for lovers of Mexican cuisine. The space is expected to be taken up by a new Mexican-Peruvian restaurant under the leadership of Alejandro Gonzalez and Jose Avalos-Rios. Its name is still under wraps. The sign on the establishment’s door reads, “New owners with dynamic vision will be taking over, renovating, and bringing the community a new and vibrant restaurant.”
While the exact plans for the space at 205 W. Genesee Street remain unknown, this marks an exciting time in the city’s dining scene, with many young chefs seizing new opportunities. Reports also state that the new restaurant might open as soon as July. Patrons can expect exciting new things from the duo, who are also partners in Inka, a new eatery in downtown Syracuse, and Margarita’s Mexican Cantina – a bar/restaurant in Armory Square.
Papa Gallo’s History
In 2007, Jason Thomas opened Papa Gallo as a tribute to his grandfather, a businessman in South Texas. The website says he dreamt of opening a Mexican restaurant by that name. Papa Gallo’s goal was to bring authentic Mexican or Tex-Mex food to the people of Syracuse. Thomas also owns Arad Evans Inn on Route five, west of Fayetteville, which will continue to operate.
