La Chamba Mexican restaurant suddenly closes

Jul. 19, 2022 6:00 am

A selection of menu items is seen at La Chamba in Cedar Rapids on March 29, 2022. La Chamba closed abruptly after only four months in business. (Nick Rohlman/The Gazette)

CEDAR RAPIDS — La Chamba Mexican Restaurant appears to have closed at 5001 First Ave. SE after only four months in business.

Diners noticed the restaurant was closed earlier this month, although it’s not clear when the restaurant was last open. No notice has been posted on the restaurant’s social media or on its doors, which remain locked with tables and chairs stacked inside.

The restaurant was opened in early March by two couples who hoped their concept — based on cuisine from their native La Piedad and Guerrero regions of Mexico — would stand out from the crowded scene of Mexican restaurants in Cedar Rapids. Mexican food is one of the largest categories of locally owned restaurants in Cedar Rapids — where local, independent restaurants outnumber chains there.

In addition to Mexican food, the menu offered a full selection of sweet and savory breakfast dishes.

VIP Sushi previously occupied La Chamba’s spot.

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