Longtime Chandler restaurant Espo’s Mexican Food closes doors

Espo’s Mexican Food, an Arizona institution for three-plus decades, has closed its doors on Chandler Boulevard, just east of McClintock, in Chandler.

The Mexican restaurant, known for its award-winning carne asada and machaca, came under new ownership two years ago. It had changed its name to The New E Mexican Food at the beginning of this year, and a series of upgrades was planed.

Just days into the new year, however, the restaurant owners were notified their lease would not be renewed by Mesa-based American Life Savings Insurance, which took over the building in a foreclosure several years ago.

The restaurant owners tried to secure a new space at Alma School and Queen Creek, but that lease fell through. Unable to find another suitable location, they decided to close the restaurant.