Me Siento Triste. Muy Triste!

For those readers who have had the pleasure of dining at the Mexican restaurant Aguila Real on Columbia Street since it opened 2 or 3 years ago, you don't have much time left to have a final meal or three there.  The word from inside the friendly, affordable and consistently yummy eatery is that they will be closing in June.  The place, with several tables and counter space, was regularly packed at lunchtime, particularly with workers from Galvan's apartment building project two blocks away.  (Let's hope they'll all go on a hunger strike and the project comes to a halt! "NO FOOD, NO WORK!")

While the reason for the closing is unclear, a banner recently strung above the front door may offer a clue. If Aguila Real's owner, Gloria, didn't make the decision to close on her own, the landlord made it for her.  I'm thinking that the owner of 749 Columbia, who appears to live in Spencertown, wants both floors to be rented out, not just one. Let's hope another much needed weed dispensary occupies both floors soon!

To this regular patron of the restaurant (it was huevos rancheros every time, occasionally with sausage!!!), this news hurts almost as much as a few years ago when word got out that Cascades was closing.  Restaurants in downtown Hudson that don't rely solely on visitors and feel welcoming to locals are a rarity these days.  Thanks to Aguila Real, it's been comforting for the past year to feel like I don't live in a food desert.  Sadly, yet again, that feeling is fading quickly. 

If you haven't been to Aguila Real and you appreciate authentic Mexican food (and beyond), I suggest you give it a try.  And soon!  Don't be surprised, though, if you have to wait for a table at lunchtime.