Continuing Closures
Popular downtown Austin restaurant and bar quietly closes after 18 years
A longtime downtown Austin restaurant has closed its doors for good. Malaga Tapas & Bar held its final service Labor Day weekend.
Malaga's last day was Sunday, September 4. "It is with great pride and resolution that [owner Greg Schnurr] announces the closing of the restaurant, understanding the legacy of great culinary culture he is leaving behind," says a statement provided by co-owner Barret Brannam.
The news comes as a surprise, as the 18-year-old restaurant recently encouraged diners to swing by for happy hour via social media. The tapas restaurant debuted in 1998 and eventually moved to the 2nd Street District, where it was a popular destination for wine and classic tapas, as well as other traditional Spanish dishes.
"In a growing city filled with the entrepreneurial spirits of new private business owners, an abundance of new concepts are gracing Austin's vibrant culinary scene," continues the statement.
"Malaga is proud to have been at the forefront of such proven and popular culinary traditions, earning its title as Austin's original Spanish tapas bar. Thank you Austin for all your support over the years."
This isn't the first closure to surprise the area. In July, Cantina Laredo announced its immediate shutter; Houston-based Peli Peli is slated to take its place.