Iconic South Austin Restaurant Stays Afloat After Announcing Closure

Austinites and visitors know Maria’s Taco Xpress on South Lamar for its massive crowning statue of a woman holding her arms out in a welcoming gesture that seems to say, “Welcome to South Austin!” Earlier this year, it was reported that the iconic, 21-year-old restaurant would have to close its doors due to rising costs in the 78704 area like countless other beloved local businesses that’s met the same harsh fate.

Thankfully, through the power of community and the spirit of keeping Austin weird, Maria’s will live on! According to Austin CultureMap, when the owner, Maria Corbalan, was about to sell the property due to the sky-high taxes, but the buyer fell through. “Corbalan is now protesting the tax increase and considering outside investment,” they report.

On their official Facebook page, Corbalan wrote, “Hello my loves. I would like to officially announce that Taco Xpress is not closing. Due to all of the support from the Austin community we will be staying open and trying to fight the increasing taxes.”

Locals are overjoyed that the restaurant known for its all-day breakfast tacos, drag queen bingo, and Hippie Church (live gospel Sundays) will stick around for a while longer. Viva Maria’s!