Popular Mexican Restaurant closes after 14 years of business
Rancho Bravo, a beloved Capitol Hill institution for over a decade, has closed its doors, marking an end to a chapter of affordable Mexican fare and lively atmosphere. The restaurant, once housed in a former Kentucky Fried Chicken building, has been handed over to new ownership, welcoming Teto’s Cantina to the neighborhood.
Owner Freddy Rivas shared that the business on E Pine Street was in a month-to-month lease, and the recent economic climate made it challenging to maintain the restaurant’s $5 tacos menu. Rancho Bravo’s legacy began in 2009, and its unique charm – including quirky elements reminiscent of its fast-food past – had endeared it to many Capitol Hill residents.
In 2015, the restaurant even revived the old KFC drive-thru, adding a touch of nostalgia to the dining experience. However, not all endeavors were successful, with the short-lived burger spinoff Freddy Juniors meeting its end.
Over the years, Rancho Bravo was known for its menu including carne asada, al pastor, carnitas, and pollo. They also serve burritos, tortas, quesadillas, and other Mexican classics.
While Rancho Bravo’s Capitol Hill chapter has concluded, the Wallingford location remains open, offering its patrons a taste of the beloved Mexican cuisine. As for Teto’s Cantina, it looks to carry on the legacy of providing delicious food and lively ambiance, bringing a new dimension to the Capitol Hill dining scene.
