"What began as a hugely popular weekend taco stand in an alley off North Rampart grew into a cozy counter-service restaurant with a homey backyard dining area when Laurie Casebonne and Ian Schnoebelen opened Rosalita’s Backyard Tacos in January 2021. After closing their Italian restaurant Mariza, the couple launched the Rosalie Alley pop-up and, following neighborhood buzz and national recognition that produced long lines, took over the former Shake Sugary bakery to expand the operation. They kept an extensive, staunchly affordable menu — tacos, quesadillas, enchiladas, tostadas, burritos and more — even as prices rose elsewhere in the neighborhood. Valuing their staff and regulars, they’ve been personally alerting customers about the closure rather than slapping a sign on the door (Casebonne called that “absolutely chicken shit”); Rosalita’s will close on Saturday, August 10 at 3304 St. Claude Avenue." - Clair Lorell