The owners of a Mexican restaurant conglomerate are under fire from staffers — and business partners — after abruptly closing two locations over the weekend.
Jesus and Blanca Valencia — who own eateries across Florida — locked up an Anejo Cocina in Yulee and Salsas Cocina in Middleburg over the weekend.
The Yulee closure was announced in a brief Facebook post on Sunday.
“Añejo Yulee is temporarily closed,” the owners wrote. “We apologize for the inconvenience and appreciate your understanding. We’ll be back soon to serve you.”
A business partner in the two ventures, Melandy Higdon, denounced the moves to Action Jax — and said she was also blindsided by the lockups.
“It’s heartless, it’s cruel,” she said. it’s just uncalled for.”
A manager at the Yulee Anejo, Lynette Quinones, wrote on Facebook that she and her colleagues were given no warning before the Valencias showed up, informed workers of the closure, and changed the locks.
Another employee said she and her stunned colleagues were now faced with unemployment — and no income — just weeks ahead of Christmas.
“Several employees, including myself, have lost our jobs, and we were completely unaware that the restaurant was closing,” Junie Cristobal wrote. “This sudden decision feels incredibly unfair, especially with the holiday season approaching. If they had intended to close the restaurant, they should have given proper notice to ensure that everyone was taken care of.”
Other staffers said the Valencias were largely absent from both locations in recent years before showing up to shutter them over the weekend.
Higdon, the workers said, has since been barred from entry to the restaurants.
“This is especially hard for those who relied on their jobs for their livelihood, particularly during the holiday season,” Cristobal wrote. “We hope for a resolution that treats all employees with the respect and fairness they deserve.”
The Anejo website currently lists nine locations, including the defunct Yulee outpost and one in Nocatee Town Center.
Salsas’ lists a total of six locations.
Known for their lively atmosphere and friendly service, Anejo restaurants have flourished and expanded rapidly in recent years, with the most recent location opening up in Daytona Beach in October.
