Las Cruces says goodbye to “My Brother’s Place”

It’s the end of an era for Las Cruces restaurant, “My Brother’s Place.” The popular eatery is closing its doors after 44 years in business.

My Brother’s Place opened its doors on October 21st, 1972. It will be demolished to make way for a pair of bars and office space for the Las Cruces Convention and Visitor’s Bureau–all part of the Downtown Revitalization Project.

“It’s a good way to look at this as a public-private partnership in which the city and both land private developer with potential and make an investment into downtown,” Las Cruces Community Development Director David Weir said.

“I can see the future of the Amador hotel and this corner with the visitor’s center, I think it’s going to be really good for the city of Las Cruces,” Owner John Gutierrez said.

The line for service was out the door Friday, taking anywhere from half an hour to an hour for a table. Employees told Abc-7 it was just as busy if not more–than at the restaurant’s grand opening back in the 70’s. Gutierrez says he’s ready for the next chapter.

“People say aren’t you feeing bittersweet? And I say no, it’s a more sweet than it is bitter. I’ve been looking forward to retiring for a long time,” Gutierrez said.

Longtime customers scheduled a trip to the restaurant Friday to enjoy some of their favorites one last time.

“I have been coming here for over 50 years and we used to run around when it was city and Mr. Gutierrez would give me and Joanie Gutierrez some candy,” Longtime customer Jo Galvan said.

Employees were also full of emotions as they shuffled around the kitchen and restaurant Friday. Many of them said they will miss Gutierrez the most.

“I’m happy for my boss, he’s a blessed man, he’s been a good boss all these years,” Head cook Paul Rivera said.

Gutierrez says his plans for retirement include fishing. The restaurant’s last official day is Saturday.