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Popular Boyle Heights Taco Restaurant Set To Close After 30 Years

BOYLE HEIGHTS (CBSLA.com) —  A popular Boyle Heights taco stand is set to close after more than 30 years in the same location.

Residents told KCAL9's Peter Daut they were sad and frustrated by the closure.

Carnitas Michoacan Number 3, open 24 hours on S. Soto Street, is the place to go when neighbors have a hankering for Mexican food. Many told Daut it was more than a restaurant, calling it an institution.

The restaurant said a Panda Express will open at the location, and they are being forced to shut down.

But even after seven zillion tacos have been sold ince it opened, loyal customers were stunned their nachos came with a notice.

"It's disappointing," said Michael Esquivel.

Martha Beristin came for a final bite. She insisted on coming with her daughter and granddaughter.

"A lot of memories," she says. For three decades, her family came to the restaurant for big occasions, for birthdays, graduations and other milestones.

Boyle Heights is increasingly becoming the next battleground in LA's ongoing struggle over gentrification.

For many folks who grew up here, including Angel Hernandez, who even has a tattoo of the historic neighborhood, the closure of  Carnitas Michoacan is another sign of unwelcome change.

"It's not going to be the same without this place right here. This is like a classic. This place is history," said Hernandez.

After her final visit, Martha Beristin says she left with a full stomach and a heart full of memories.

"I love this place, but, you know, everything has an ending," she said.

The restaurant's owner said the closure is imminent, and he hasn't decided if he will relocate.

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