In the heart of the Central West End, what was once a vibrant hub for students and locals alike is now just another empty storefront.
El Burro Loco – known for its strong margaritas, massive burritos and college crowd – has officially shut down. And for many Saint Louis University students, it is the end of an era.
Lizzie Bannon, a SLU meteorology master’s student, describes El Burro Loco as a cornerstone of student life throughout her six years in St. Louis.
“I always had a really great time,” said Bannon. “Burro had an amazing atmosphere, good food and good drinks.”
El Burro Loco was forced to close due to tax fraud, with about $358,257 in unpaid sales tax.
“The tax fraud surprised me,” said Bannon. “I don’t know how they got away with that for so long.”
For years, El Burro Loco was a go-to spot for SLU students. It served as a place to celebrate after finals, get a late-night bite to eat or just hang out with friends.
“It is such a popular place to go with friends and family,” said Lia Cooper, a SLU psychology senior.
But that popularity came with controversy, as debt was not the only trouble the restaurant faced this year.
In March, El Burro Loco lost its liquor license after repeated violations,including serving underage patrons.
“I remember that I was really excited to go there once I turned 21 since the margaritas looked really good,” said Cooper. “So I’m actually really upset that such a popular place is shut down.”
The response from students has been mixed. From an anonymous open-response poll on the University News Instagram story, here are some varied student responses:
“Tragic loss, I don’t even drink but I loved their slushies and chips,” said one student.
Another student disagreed by stating that it “wasn’t even that good.”
Some students are “devastated” and “filled with sadness.”
One user left a recommendation for a different local Mexican restaurant, Padrinos.
Love it or hate it, El Burro Loco’s forced closure marks the end of a chapter for SLU student life and starts anew for a go-to spot.
