LOWER MACUNGIE TWP., Pa. – A destination for chimichangas, enchiladas and other Mexican favorites has ended operations in Lehigh County.
Casa Catrina, a full-service restaurant offering authentic Mexican cuisine, has permanently closed at 1905 Brookside Road in Lower Macungie Township.
For the past few weeks, signage on the door indicated that the restaurant was temporarily closed.
But on Monday, the owners announced its permanent closure on the business’ Facebook page.
“Despite our best efforts to reopen and continue serving our community, circumstances have led us to make this difficult decision,” the online announcement reads.
“We want to express our deepest gratitude to all our customers, friends, and supporters who have been with us over these six wonderful years of operation. Your loyalty, kindness, and encouragement meant the world to us and made Casa Catrina a special place.”
Husband and wife Humberto and Elia Chavolla, who previously owned the former Fiesta Olé restaurant on Lehigh Street in Emmaus, in March 2020 opened Casa Catrina at a prominent restaurant site at Brookside and Lower Macungie roads.
Over the years, the Lower Macungie building also housed other dining establishments, including Don Juan Mex Grill & Cantina and Stoned Crab.
Casa Catrina, featuring seating for around 140 customers on two floors, offered made-to-order Mexican specialties such as flautas, nachos, tacos, burritos, enchiladas, fajitas, quesadillas, chimichangas and churros.
Guests could also enjoy beer, wine and cocktails from the restaurant’s full bar.
“Thank you for allowing us to be part of your celebrations, your family moments, and your everyday life,” the closing announcement continues. “We will always be grateful for the memories we created together.”
Within an hour, the closing announcement had garnered more than a dozen comments, primarily from individuals extending warm wishes to the owners and staff.
“Sorry to see you go!” one person wrote. “You will be deeply missed. I wish you all the best.”
“We are so sorry to hear!” another person commented. “We loved Casa Catrina!”
The closing announcement offers no guidance for individuals who hold Casa Catrina gift cards.