After 24 years in business, Coco Bolos Wood Fire Grill and Cantina will close its doors permanently on Saturday, Jan. 22, according to a press release from HCI Hospitality.
Located at the corner of Bluemont and North Manhattan Avenue, Coco Bolos is known for its south Texan and southern New Mexican cuisine. The closure comes after its parent company, HCI Hospitality, said it had lost its lease.
“Coco Bolos has been a destination for so many in the area and those returning to Manhattan for a visit,” owner Dave Dreiling said in the press release. “It’s been an honor to serve Manhattan and to be a small part of this community.”
Hannah Butler, freshman in human development and family sciences, said she was surprised and sad to see the restaurant close because of its lively atmosphere.
“There’s always a lot of people there. I’ve never gone when it’s empty and quiet,” Butler said. “It always seems like it’s a party in there. It’s a happy, fun environment, so I like to go there because it’s always a positive experience.”
Related:
New ordinance allows open containers during approved events
Emmalee Daniels, sophomore in elementary education, said she is sad to see Coco Bolos go because it is her family’s favorite place to eat when they visit Manhattan.
“My parents love the breakfast there,” Daniels said. “That was one of the first places that we went to when I toured the campus as a junior.”
Daniels said she believes many people are sad about the closure and hopes the restaurant finds a new location.
“It’s unique to Manhattan, so seeing it go is really sad,” Daniels said. “I really want them to find a new location because they do have so many customers flowing through. I know a lot of people would follow them.”
HCI Hospitality has released no plans to open a new location, but confirmed that Coco Bolos will still be available for catering and continue to operate out of its offsite catering kitchen.
