Best known on this site for being Tony Danza's favorite taco spot, Henry's Tacos is an old-school gringo taco joint in the Valley that represents one of the best embodiments of a certain style of tacos that has thrived in Los Angeles since the 1960s. Now, LA Observed is reporting that a massive rent increase, possibly caused by a never-enacted cultural monument, has doomed the popular and distinctive restaurant. Owner Janice Hood posted the following on Facebook:
I am very sorry to have to announce to everyone that it looks like Henry's will be closing for good on December 31. As some of you know, Henry's is just too much for me as a single, childless woman approaching 60 with no family within 1700 miles. I have had several prospective buyers committed to continuing the tradition, but all have been turned down by the landlord. The current prospective buyers have agreed to all the landlord's terms, but he has ceased communicating with them. Therefore, I have given my notice and it has been accepted by the landlord.
I believe this all goes back to my unwittingly angering the landlord by nominating Henry's for Historic Cultural Monument status. As Councilmember Krekorian put a stop to that, the landlord may want to bulldoze Henry's and build something else. I am hoping to get some media coverage in the next few days. Needless to say I am heartsick that after 51 years, Henry's may end for no good reason. Thanks to you all for your support.
Meanwhile, actor Elijah Wood is taking action over Twitter. According to USA Today, Wood has tweeted support for Henry's and is enlisting other celebs to the cause. No word from Tony Danza as of yet.
