Times have been hard for small businesses. Chains have taken over locations that were once "mom and pop's" and, in some cases, old favorites may not change their names but they still succumb to necessary corporate cha-cha in order to survive.

Nuevo Leon has felt the pull on its purse strings. Most recently, it has been forced to close down its third location. However, the flagship location on east 6th still remains afloat. And contrary to popular rumor, the family run business isn’t going anywhere.

This weekend, Nuevo Leon celebrates 29 years of cheap drinks and family dining. Rachel Davila opened the first Nuevo Leon at 7th and Lydia in 1982, when the east side was a far cry from the gentrified hub of hipster fashion and fancy cocktails it is now. It is people like Gloria Gutierrez, who have been working at the restaurant since inception, that have kept the feel of Nuevo Leon distinctly old school Austin.

Nuevo Leon was Gutierrez's first job. She was quickly hired for her bilingual ability and has been happily serving the east side ever since. “My favorite part is the customers, families, regulars and sometimes even famous people," she says. "My favorite was serving Bill Clinton. He ordered a little bit of everything and he was so nice.” Politics aside, Gloria loves her work and loves the family atmosphere it supports. “Rachel [Davila] and all her sons work with us. We are all a big family here.” Sure, the food may not be stellar, but you can at least taste the love nestled in the grease and cheese.

On Friday the 22nd, Nuevo Leon will be celebrating its 29 years as part of the east Austin community with a party for its extended family--all of us. With half price nachos and $2 Corona specials, we can all get a taste of an Austin institution for a discounted price. Mariachis are a staple at the restaurant, and the anniversary celebration won’t be without the lively strings and jovial ululating. (If you like your enchiladas with a little less musical accompaniment, we'd suggest to get there before 7p.m.)

While the economy may have affected the drink sizes a bit, Rachel has decided not to let it affect the heart of her business. She's faced temptation to sell the business over the past few months, but realized it wasn’t worth what she'd lose in her life and has decided to keep the doors open and the drinks flowing, all with a familial touch.

With new happy hour prices and weekly lunch specials, Nuevo Leon promises to be around for a long time to come.