For many people, an outing to Moss Landing has been less about kayaking and more about dining. Now, however, one of the community’s favorite destinations relocated and another is closing.
The Whole Enchilada—a culinary presence for 45 years—announced plans to shut its doors after dinner service on January 31. The news was posted on a restaurant social media account earlier this week. Two years ago, Phil’s Fish Market moved from its longtime location and set up on a corner in downtown Castroville.
Chef Luis Solano is retiring from his duties after serving as manager, chef and then operating the restaurant. Ray Retez, who opened The Whole Enchilada in 1979 and was known as the unofficial “Mayor of Moss Landing,” died in November of last year.
The restaurant is a family operation, opened by Retez with his wife Jan and a good friend. Solano is Retez’s son-in-law. Solano’s wife, Kim, worked at the restaurant before launching nearby Haute Enchilada, which remains a popular destination.