‘Blood, sweat and tears’: Mexican Graffiti to close its doors after 42-years in Geelong’s CBD

After more than four decades of nachos and tacos, the city eatery is encouraging punters to come in for one last feed and say adios.

Julie Hardy, owner of Mexican Graffiti. Picture: Alison Wynd

It’s been running from one location longer than any other Geelong restaurant but Mexican Graffiti will soon close its doors, in another blow for the city’s dining scene.

The eatery this week announced it would shut after 42 years of “blood, sweat and tears” at its Yarra St premises.

The restaurant said it “must say farewell” in a statement posted to social media.

“With so many staff and people to mention, we just want to thank all of you legends,” the post read.

“Repeat business is what has kept us thriving all of these years, watching your families grow up and celebrate all of the moments in front of our eyes.”

It did not detail the reason for the closure.

The business has encouraged the public to return to the venue one last time.

“It really has been a roller coaster ride, so we ask you again, please don’t be shy and don’t let this opportunity pass you by,” it said.

“With three weeks and counting, we would love to see your familiar faces and have the chance to serve you one last time and bid you all adieu.”

Mexican Graffiti has only had two owners since opening.

In 2018, current owner Julie Hardy was unsuccessful in her efforts to sell the business.

At the time, Ms Hardy said Mexican Graffiti was a family favourite with its big tables and a function room upstairs drawing strong crowds.

Julie Hardy is only the second owner in 42 years. Picture: Alison Wynd

“We’ve raised seven children through here in the last 15 years and it’s been fantastic,” she said.

“My main business is repeat business. I’ve had people who come in and say ‘I brought my son in here for his 18th birthday and they’re now in their 60s or 70s and they’re bringing their grandkids here’,” she said.

Earlier this week, craft brewer Valhalla went into administration due to a significant downturn in business.

The company’s woes are not isolated and there appears to be little good news on the horizon, particularly for smaller operators.

The latest report from CreditorWatch, released on Wednesday, forecasted that almost one in 10 hospitality businesses were expected to fail in the coming 12 months.

Originally published as ‘Blood, sweat and tears’: Mexican Graffiti to close its doors after 42-years in Geelong’s CBD