Tijuana Flats Closing 4 Tampa Bay Locations

Did your favorite on-the-go Tex-Mex food spot close up shop? Last week, Tijuana Flats announced they would abruptly close 11 stores after filing for bankruptcy. 4 Tampa Bay Tijuana Flats closings took place last week as they prepare for new ownership.

According to a press release released by the Tex-Mex chain, they announced there was an ongoing ownership change in progress. New ownership is looking to take Tijuana Flats back to their roots.

The press release said, "Central Florida-based Tijuana Flats (TF) announced today that a new ownership group has acquired the brand with a plan of revitalizing its restaurants and reinvigorating the customer experience. The change marks a new chapter for the organization which was founded nearly 30 years ago."

Flatheads LLC acquired the Tex-Mex food chain with plans to bring in new changes to return the company to its former glory. The Chief Executive Officer of Tijuana Flats, Joe Cristina, talked about his excitement for new ownership and their plans to "reinvest, focus and emphasize" the core reason why people loved Tijuana Flats to begin with.

According to the release, The Tijuana Flats closings were part of their plan to preserve what was left of the organization. They announced the filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection so they could move forward. These are the Tampa Bay locations we're saying goodbye to:

Joe Christina, the current CEO is going to stay with the brand. New Ownership wants to continue working with Christina with the plans he put in place when he was hired back in November 2022.

Some of the most recent changes include their updated menu on April 1st, as well as redesigning their packaging for Take-out and delivery “designed to enhance the product and improve delivery times to its customers.” They are also aiming to make renovations to some of their locations for a refresh and to welcome customers for a better inside dining atmosphere.

The Tex-Mex chain was founded in 1995 in Winter Park, Florida, and currently operating in Florida, Alabama, North Carolina, and Tennessee. They have over 65 company-owned locations across Florida and 26 within the other states listed above.

To learn more about the store closings across Florida, read the full press release here.

Want to know what the most popular restaurants in Tampa Bay are? Well, look no further because we found out! There are three restaurants that are constantly booked and reservations are hard to get. These are the three most booked restaurants in Tampa according to OpenTable. And they're absolutely worth the wait if you can't get a table right away!

Are you tired of going to the same old restaurants every weekend and wanting to try something new? Look no further because we’ve compiled a list of the three trendiest restaurants in that you must go check out. These spots offer delicious food, beautiful atmosphere and some of the trendiest places that everyone is always talking about! One of them you might have heard of before because it's a must if you visit Tampa Bay. The Columbia Restaurant located in the historic Ybor City, is located at 2117 E 7th Avenue is a staple in our community. This family owned restaurant offer authentic Spanish-Cuban cuisine using old family recipes and tradition. When you go, order their delicious Cuban sandwich and with famous 1905 tableside built salad.

Another fabulous restaurant that you have to go to is Ulele. It's on the list of one of the most booked restaurants for good reason. Located in Tampa Heights it's right on the water and right next to Armature Works. Their food is so yummy and the charbroiled oysters are a must if you visit. Of course, don't forget about their delicious seafood choices including a lobster roll that's to die for! With people all over the country moving to Florida Tampa is exploding right now with popularity. We have beautiful beaches, a vibrant city and a wonderful array of restaurants. Try one of these delicious restaurants listed below if you can grab a reservation.

One of the best restaurants in Tampa Bay is nonother than The Columbia Restaurant. Whether you're going for lunch or dinner, whatever you get will be delicious and authentic. When you go, make sure to order their famous 1905 salad. It's made right in front of you and absolutely delicious.

Ulele is a gem with beautiful surroundings! Located in Tampa Heights at 1810 N Highland Avenue it has delicious food! This spot is famous for it's beautiful views, seafood Risotto and charbroiled oysters. Make sure you try them because everyone talks about them.

This one is a no brainer. Bern's is notorious for having hard to get reservations and for good reason. They're famous for their delicious steaks and of course the wine selection. When you go ask to take a tour of the wine cellar because it's extensive.