The owners of a chain of Mexican restaurants are facing backlash from employees and business partners after suddenly shutting down two locations over the weekend.

Jesus and Blanca Valencia, who run several restaurants across Florida, closed Anejo Cocina in Yulee and Salsas Cocina in Middleburg without warning.

Abrupt Closures Shock Employees

The Yulee restaurant’s closure was announced in a short Facebook post on Sunday.

“Añejo Yulee is temporarily closed,” the post read. “We apologize for the inconvenience and appreciate your understanding. We’ll be back soon to serve you.”

However, many employees and a business partner, Melandy Higdon, said they had no idea the closures were coming. Higdon, who was involved in both restaurants, told Action Jax she was blindsided.

“It’s heartless, it’s cruel,” she said. “It’s just uncalled for.”

Lynette Quinones, a manager at the Yulee location, said on Facebook that workers had no warning. The Valencias reportedly showed up, told staff the restaurant was shutting down, and then changed the locks.

Staff Left Jobless Before the Holidays

Many employees are now struggling to find work just weeks before Christmas.

“Several employees, including myself, lost our jobs without any notice,” said Junie Cristobal, a worker at Anejo Yulee. “This decision is incredibly unfair, especially with the holiday season coming up. If they planned to close, they should have given us time to prepare.”

Workers also said the Valencias had been mostly absent from these locations in recent years but returned just to close them down. Meanwhile, Higdon, the business partner, has been locked out of the restaurants.

“This is especially difficult for those who depended on their jobs,” Cristobal added. “We hope for a fair resolution that respects the employees.”

Restaurant Chain Continues to Expand

Despite the closures, Anejo Cocina’s website still lists nine locations, including the Yulee restaurant. Salsas Cocina has six locations.

Anejo has been growing rapidly, with a new restaurant opening in Daytona Beach just this past October. The chain is known for its lively atmosphere and friendly service.