Mexican Restaurant Cantina 1511 Faces Closure Amidst Unpaid Wages and Tax Issues
Charlotte, North Carolina – The popular Mexican restaurant Cantina 1511 has recently closed its doors, leaving both employees and patrons in shock. The closure comes as a result of unpaid wages and significant tax debts that the establishment had accumulated over time. Furthermore, a former company official revealed that the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) had garnished the restaurant’s account due to the mounting tax burden.
Employees of Cantina 1511 expressed their concerns about the situation, explaining that the management had failed to address these financial challenges. As a result, checks began to bounce, wages were delayed, and rent payments fell overdue. Consequently, the general manager of the Mooresville location, Ben Linscott, made the difficult decision to shut down the business, as they were uncertain if they would even be paid for their work.
Quantum Development Charlotte, the ownership group of Cantina 1511, has endured previous hardships, including a Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing in 2022, which attempted to reorganize operations. Their Plan of Reorganization cited the failure of a branch in uptown Charlotte as one of the factors that led to falling behind on tax payments. Furthermore, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has further strained their financial stability.
The closure of Cantina 1511 has left approximately 50 employees without a job and struggling to support their families. Linscott expressed his frustration and disappointment, highlighting the impact on both individuals and their livelihoods. He emphasized that employees invested their time and effort into the business, only to be left without compensation and with limited options moving forward.
Despite efforts to reach out to the current owner within Quantum Development and their attorney, WBTV has yet to receive any response or clarification regarding the situation. The property management group for Park Road Shopping Center, Edens, stated that they are unable to provide additional details on behalf of their retail partner at this time.
The closure of Cantina 1511 serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by businesses during these uncertain times. The COVID-19 pandemic has undoubtedly taken its toll on the restaurant industry, exacerbating existing financial difficulties. While the repercussions of these issues are significant, it is important to acknowledge the impact on the livelihoods of employees who now find themselves without work and struggling to support their families.
As the fallout from the closure of Cantina 1511 continues to unfold, it remains uncertain how the situation will be resolved. Employees hope that their unpaid wages will be addressed, but with limited communication from the restaurant’s ownership, the path to justice and resolution remains unclear. The restaurant industry as a whole has faced unprecedented challenges throughout the pandemic, and the effects will likely continue to be felt for some time to come.
