05/30/2026
I wanted to take a moment to honor what El Sol meant to many. For some, it was a place they frequented, perhaps for lunch at some point because they worked downtown. For others, it was a place where they would have special dinners out before catching a show at the Whitaker Center, or after their child’s dance or theater performance. For others, it was a place where they met someone special, got engaged, had a baby shower, or for some it was their neighborhood bar where they became regulars ….and for others, it was a business that sustained them and maybe their family. And for others, it was truly a labor of love, and wanting to create something tangible from an idea. Something to bring more culture to Central PA, better yet, downtown Harrisburg. It was a place that brought people together.
I want to apologize for the abruptness of the closing. Sometimes, even when you know the end is near, you don’t know exactly how it’s going to go down. It was sudden, and I wish there could have been some way to have a proper goodbye. I think for that reason we wanted to warn everyone a few months ago, when it looked like change was on the horizon.
I want to extend gratitude to all those who were steadfast supporters for the almost 19 years we were open. Today would mark 19 years, as we opened May 29, 2007. Many memories remain for so many, and that deserved a moment of attention.
Juan continues to operate sister restaurants, as mentioned in the article.
I, Lisa, have been enjoying my role in the world now as a mental health therapist, which is truly rewarding. Maybe I’ll pop up in your feed someday in a different role.
Life goes on. Love to you all.
The property's owner says it is in talks with another restaurant tenant to take over the space.
