Half-a-Century-Old Mexican Restaurant in Wichita Announces Permanent Closure

Chico’s Mexican Restaurant is preparing to close and sets September 19 as its final day of operation.

Written By Saheba Khatun
Food image of Chico’s Mexican Restaurant (Image credit: Facebook @ Chico’s Mexican Restaurant)

A locally owned, family-operated Mexican staple is preparing to close its doors. Chico’s Mexican Restaurant will officially close its doors next month, after operating for more than 50 years. The restaurant announced the closure in a social media post.

Chico’s Mexican Restaurant to Close After 52 Years

Located at 4407 W Maple Street in Wichita, KS, Chico’s Mexican Restaurant was founded by Juan Martinez and Bill Alston. The restaurant is popularly known for offering authentic Mexican cuisine, which is inspired by traditional family recipes. The restaurant says its menu is prepared with fresh ingredients and a proprietary blend of spices.

The restaurant features an original Tex-Mex-inspired design. The vibrant colors, comfortable dining experience, and mouthwatering flavors make the restaurant a go-to place for the community.

Through a social media post, the restaurant owner announced the closure news. They wrote, “After 52 years of Wichita supporting us, we will be closing our doors on Sept 19th permanently.”

In the post, the owner stated that it was a very difficult decision. “I have no idea of what my journey will be now (since I’ve done this all my life). My 80-year-old father is the only surviving founder, and this will be hard for him, but he understands,” stated the owner.

The owner did not provide a specific reason for the closure.

Customers React to the Closure

Following the closure announcement, several longtime customers expressed their disappointment on social media. Some customers also shared heartfelt messages and cherished memories in the comments.

One customer wrote, “Sad to see it going away, but happy for you. I know it’s been a challenge for you. I’m going to have to come in and get my fill of Chico Special with Chili Verde!”

The restaurant team thanked the community and customers for their support over the decades. The team also encouraged the community to visit the restaurant before it closes permanently. “We will be open Tues-Sat until Sept 19th; please be patient with our low staff,” said the team.

As Chico’s winds up its operation in the city, it hopes to celebrate its last chapter with the community.

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Saheba Khatun is a journalist and content writer with a strong academic background in English literature and a deep passion for storytelling. She has produced a wide range of work spanning news, features, and human-interest stories, often highlighting the voices and experiences of everyday people. Known for her people-focused, thoughtful, and relatable approach, Saheba aims to inform, inspire, and foster meaningful connections through her writing. With an eye for detail and a commitment to integrity, she believes in the power of words to spark dialogue, shift perspectives, and create lasting impact. Outside of her professional work, she enjoys exploring literature, culture, and community narratives, which continue to fuel her creative process and broaden her worldview.
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