Two New Orleans restaurants that specialize in Spanish cuisine closed on Cinco De Mayo.
Habana Outpost on Esplanade Avenue and Johnny Sanchez on Poydras say they are closing their doors.
Festivals celebrating the holiday took place across the area. Sweet tunes of Spanish-style music filled the annual Cinco De Mayo festival in Harahan.
It’s a party with a purpose, commemorating the Mexican army’s victory over France back in 1862.
“The Mexican culture is amazing, the food is amazing, the drinks and margaritas are amazing…everything it just brings people together,” said Heysi Fuentes.
It comes after a challenging year for some families who were separated in historic deportations, during a massive crackdown on illegal immigration.
“Given the circumstances of ICE, and it’s really relieving to see a whole bunch of Hispanics all reuniting as human,” said Chelsea Montero.
Montero says it’s more important than ever for her to honor Spanish culture.
“It’s still very fearful, it’s been very fearful recently, it’s really hard for my parents to get out of the house. It is very important to celebrate right now because of all the deportations and problems right now,” said Montero.
The celebrations in Jefferson Parish were just as lively in Orleans Parish.
“It’s always fun to bring that kind of experience to New Orleans, a city known for a lot of other things,” said Miles Landrem.
But it was a bittersweet day inside downtown Mexican restaurant Johnny Sanchez.
The business that’s been a staple on Poydras Street for 12 years served its last meals.
Owners say they’re closing because of rising rent costs.
“Ultimately, we decided not renew it, you know, all these leases go up over time, and the city of New Orleans, as much as we love it, we’re not doing the business we once did,” said Miles Landrem.
Habana Outpost on Esplanade Avenue also closed on Tuesday.
Johnny Sanchez restaurant says operations will continue at the Lake Charles location. They are looking into possibly reopening in New Orleans in a different space.
Both businesses say they chose Cinco De Mayo as their last day to celebrate a community that’s supported them.
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