Masa Taqueria and Tequila Bar in Woburn to be Sold

UPDATED: 3:08 p.m.

WOBURN, MA—Masa Taqueria and Tequila Bar, located at 348a Cambridge Rd., is in the process of being sold, and will close its doors on May 8.

According to a press release confirmed with Masa spokesperson Amanda Rodriguez, the restaurant is in the process of being sold to an "established, well-respected restaurant group." The restaurant's parent location, on Tremont St. in the South End of Boston will remain open.

Rodriguez confirmed with Patch that Michael Kristen Aviles, the widow of former owner Philip Aviles, is selling the Woburn location in order to focus on the original South End location.

Aviles released a personal statement when announcing the restaurants closing.

"Thank you to all of our current and former Woburn employees, customers, neighbors, and community for your loyalty and support. We're pleased that some of our Woburn employees will join our team at our flagship, Masa Boston, and hope that our suburban customers will visit us in Boston's South End.

I've spent the last 7+ months since Philip's passing analyzing both restaurants with my team, and decided that consolidating our operation, selling the Woburn restaurant, and focusing on Boston, was the best way to honor Philip's vision and serve our clientele.

I fondly remember the first time Philip cooked for me at Masa, and have wonderful memories celebrating our engagement, the birth of our child, and several milestones at a very special restaurant. I am proud to announce my renewed dedication and commitment to Masa Boston, as our team works diligently on improving and evolving every day.

Our Executive Chef, Carlos Avarenga, 6-year Masa veteran, trained with Philip, and has committed to carrying the torch and honoring Philip's proud tradition of Masa's seasonal dishes featuring fresh, local, ingredients.

I'm grateful to my loyal family, friends, Masa employees, and customers who have supported me, my family and both restaurants during a very difficult time. We're celebrating our 19th anniversary as a staple in Boston's vibrant South End dining scene, and look forward to seeing you at Masa Boston."

Masa in Woburn first opened in 2008 as Masa Southwestern Grill, changing over to Masa Taqueria and Tequila Bar this past fall. It is unknown what type of restaurant will take its place. The South End location has been in operation since 1998.

The restaurant's last day in operation will be on Mother's Day, May 8. All gift cards and certificates will be honored at the South End location.