After huge response, Rita’s Burritos reverses decision to close

❤️ The Valley’s food and drink scene has started 2026 fairly gloomily – from the death of legendary restaurateur Lee Cohn to the closings of several longtime restaurants and breweries – so let’s enjoy an upbeat story today.

An outpouring of community support has convinced the owner of a beloved south Chandler burrito shop to reverse his decision to close.

Earlier this week, Rita’s Burritos, which offers delicious burritos with more than a dozen different fillings on house-made tortillas, announced it would shut down Jan. 22.

The small, fast-casual eatery on the southwest corner of Arizona and Ocotillo is owned by brothers Gilbert and Mario Meraz and their wives. Gilbert runs the Chandler location, while Mario oversees the Rita’s in their hometown of El Paso, Texas.

With the Chandler 10-year lease expiring, Gilbert thought it might be a good time to try something new in life. The restaurant was doing OK financially, but his brother didn’t want to bring in a new long-distance partner.

Once news of the impending closure hit social media, however, the reaction was immediate and overwhelming. Hundreds of people began calling, texting, and stopping by the store – even Gilbert’s house – to offer support.

In a message shared in a Chandler Facebook group, Gilbert (pictured above on far right) explains:

‘‘24 hours ago, Rita’s posted a letter stating that we would close the doors to the Chandler location at the end of this month. Due to the massive outreach, support, and concerns from the community, I have had a change of heart.

‘‘I didn’t know the impact Rita’s has on the community. I didn’t know how much the community actually loves us. I thought we were just another spot on your list of places you like to eat.

‘‘After over 1000 text messages and over 120 phone calls in the last 24 hours, most of you concerned about my brother and myself, my heart has been filled with so much gratitude that in return I have no choice but to stay open in Chandler.

‘‘I truly appreciate every one’s support over the last ten years and especially the last 24 hours! I have no choice but to leave Rita’s open and continue to give you all my very best from behind that counter.

‘‘I love standing behind that counter and greeting all of you. I get to say “welcome in” to 200 people a day! And thats why I believe I have the coolest job in the world.

‘‘See you all at Rita’s. Thank you.’’