By Scott Bridges

After more than five decades in Culver City, La Ballona Mexican Restaurant is closing its doors. The family-run business that Frank and Modesta Alonso started in 1959 is expected to permanently close next month. Son, Nicholas, explained that after so many years, it was time. “Culver City is turning a new page,” he said.

Earlier this month, La Ballona was voted the “Best Mexican Food Restaurant” in Culver City by readers of the News.

Alonso said that his family has witnessed Culver City’s transition through the years and recalled that the city “was a lot different” when his parents began. A lot of the friends they had made over the years have moved away, he said.

Waitress Erma Casillas says she plans to retire when the restaurant closes. When pressed on whether she really intended to retire,  Casillas replied, “Hell yeah, I’m too old.” The 75-year-old waitress began working at La Ballona 50 years ago.

Juan Pasillas, a cook, has no intention of retiring. Instead, he will be looking for a job.

Alonso said he doesn’t intend to open another restaurant. Instead, he plans to take care of his septuagenarian parents.