Iconic Gilbert’s Mexican Restaurant Closes After 40 Years of Serving San Antonio’s Best Tex-Mex-Tejano Nation

San Antonio, TX – Gilbert’s Mexican Restauranta cornerstone of San Antonio’s West Side for more than 40 years, is closing its doors after this weekend, leaving behind a bittersweet legacy. Known for its authentic Tex-Mex dishes, including the fan-favorite Javi Special—see Carne Guisada Enchiladas—the family-owned eatery has served generations of locals, tourists, and Tejano music enthusiasts.

The announcement came late Friday at the restaurant Official Instagram page from Ashley Rodriguez Herrerathe second generation owner and grandson of Gilbert Rodriguezwho founded the restaurant in 1982. In her emotional post, Ashley shared, “After more than 40 incredible years, it is with a heavy heart that I share this news: Gilbert’s Mexican Restaurant will be closing its doors after this weekend.”

A family heirloom

Gilbert Rodriguez, a Tejano Hall of Fame singer and frontman for The Blue Notes, opened the restaurant in 1982 with a vision to create a place where family and community could come together over good food. The restaurant became a local favorite, known for its authentic Tex-Mex fare and its deep connection to the Tejano music scene. Over the years, the walls were lined with photos and memorabilia of Tejano Legends, earning the place the nickname “Tejano Hard Rock Cafe.”

“We’ve always thought of this place as more than just a restaurant,” Ashley wrote in her post. “It has been a home. It is where families have gathered, celebrations have been held and generations have shared meals together. “

Tejano roots and community

Gilbert Rodriguez was not only a restaurateur, but a respected figure in the Tejano music community. As the lead singer of The Blue Notes, Gilbert and his band enjoyed widespread success in the ’60s and ’70s, helping shape the Tejano sound. His presence at the restaurant was often felt as he could be seen singing and interacting with customers, adding to the unique atmosphere of Gilbert’s Mexican restaurant.

In 2019, Gilbert received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Tejano Music Awards, solidifying his legacy in the community. His charismatic spirit filled the restaurant, which became a gathering place not only for good food, but also for fans of Tejano music, creating a cultural hub on the west side of San Antonio.

A heartfelt goodbye

In her heartfelt message, Ashley expressed deep gratitude for the loyal customers and dedicated staff who helped make Gilbert’s Mexican Restaurant a beloved local institution. “To our incredible team, both past and present, thank you. Your hard work and passion have been the heart of this restaurant,” she wrote. “To our loyal customers, there are no words to express how much your love and support has meant to us over the years.”

This weekend will be the last opportunity for fans of Gilbert’s Mexican restaurant to visit, share one last meal and celebrate the history and memories created over four decades. The restaurant, located at 8161 Latigo Plaza near Marbach Road and Loop 410, will be open Saturday from 8 a.m. to 8 a.m. and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

As Ashley concluded in her post, “Although the doors to Gilbert’s will close, the memories we made will live on forever.”

For many, Gilbert’s Mexican Restaurant was more than just a place to eat—it was a community, a tradition, and a living testament to the heart and soul of San Antonio’s West Side. When the restaurant closes its doors, its legacy will surely live on in the hearts of all who experienced its warm, delicious food and Tejano spirit.

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