The acclaimed Salsa Brava restaurant in Flagstaff, Arizona, closed Saturday after a 40-year run, but its owner plans a new restaurant along that same Route 66 location.
Saying it was “time to turn the page,” owner and founder John Conley announced the closure on Facebook three days before shuttering the eatery at 2220 E. Route 66 Blvd.
“We are incredibly grateful for every customer who’s pulled up a chair, every employee who’s been part of our team, every friendship that’s started here, and every opportunity we’ve had to give back to the community we call home,” Conley wrote.
“This isn’t goodbye. It’s a new chapter! On Monday, we’ll begin transforming this space into something new. We can’t wait to share what’s next with you.”
The Arizona Daily Sun reported that Conley’s new venture will be called The Fat Hen. He also operates the Fat Bagels and Fat Olives concept eateries in Flagstaff.
Salsa Brava was honored repeatedly during its four decades of operation for having the best tacos, best waitstaff, best salsa and best Mexican food in Flagstaff.
More about Salsa Brava a few years ago from Discover Flagstaff:
Conley was named“Chef of the Year” by the Northern Arizona Chapter of the American Culinary Federation in 2005 and won the President’s Award the next year for his culinary skills and community involvement.