In the spring of 2018, Torchy’s Tacos decided to close its original trailer on South First Street that started the franchise for owner Mike Rypka. On Oct. 22, the first brick-and-mortar Torchy’s will also close its doors. The company announced the closing of the brick-and-mortar at 2809 S. First St., Austin, on Oct. 15, and said in a media release that the brand is shifting to focus on more accessible restaurants in the local area. “This is a bittersweet moment but a sign of continued growth for Torchy’s Tacos,” Torchy's CEO G.J. Hart said in the release. After the closure of the South First Street location, Torchy’s will have four remaining South Austin restaurants—one each on South Congress Avenue, South Lamar Boulevard, Slaughter Lane and William Cannon Boulevard. According to the media release, Torchy’s is “evaluating options” for use of the original brick-and-mortar after the closure, and all employees have been offered jobs at other Austin-area locations.