Local Mexican chain to close another Sacramento-area location after three years in business

Chando’s Tacos will permanently close its Citrus Heights location, the owner confirmed to The Bee.

After roughly three years of business, the Mexican restaurant at 7084 Auburn Blvd. will serve customers for the last time on Monday, said Chando’s Tacos owner Lisandro “Chando” Madrigal. The closure is attributed to “sales not being as peach as they once were” and an expired lease. He wanted to make clear: It wasn’t a sinking ship.

“I wouldn’t treat it so much as a closure and it’s not a trial thing,” said Madrigal. “We just need to make the right decisions to make sure that the businesses stay strong.”

The Citrus Heights closure comes nearly one month after Madrigal boarded his only cantina, in midtown Sacramento, because he was “done with that type of business.” Chandos Enterprise will focus on elevating its taco business with new food truck locations and small taprooms inside the physical storefronts.

Citrus Heights customers will be directed to the Fair Oaks location, which will feature the first taproom with wine based margaritas and local brews by Oct. 1. Starting Sept. 5, customers can order Chando’s from a food truck at 2002 Lyndell Terrace in Davis.

No other closures are coming for the foreseeable future, Madrigal said — and no one is losing their job. Employees will be routed to other locations.

Chando’s Tacos has a packed menu of tacos, burritos, quesadillas, tortas, nachos and tostadas. The selection of meat includes pork, beef stew, tilapia and shrimp.

Chando’s Tacos closing in Citrus Heights

Location: 7084 Auburn Blvd., Citrus Heights

The following locations will remain open:

The location at Sacramento State is open with limited access.

This story was originally published August 31, 2023 at 1:40 PM.