The restaurant's Google listings now show both locations as permanently closed, while its Instagram accounts have been cleared of content. The closures end a six-year run for owner Derek Gonzalez's taco venture, which started with the original Brickell location back in 2017 — a venture that was dear to his heart.
Mission-Driven Restaurants for Those With Disabilities
Gonzalez named the restaurants after his aunt Lupita (nicknamed "Pilo"), who has Down syndrome, and built the business around hiring workers with intellectual and developmental disabilities.The company partnered with organizations like Gigi's Playhouse, Best Buddies, and Our Pride Academy, employing six workers with developmental disabilities across both locations. The restaurants aimed to become the largest employer of people with disabilities nationwide, with a goal of hiring 5,000 workers within three to six years. Jorge Guerrero, who worked at Pilo's Street Tacos for three years, told New Times in a 2021 interview that Pilo's gave him his first job opportunity. "I learned how to treat people and feel confident in myself. It makes me feel independent and capable," Guerrero said at the time.
The Wynwood Expansion
In February 2021, Gonzalez opened the 5,500-square-foot Pilo's Tequila Garden at 158 NW 24th St. The Wynwood location featured an outdoor space with two full-service bars, a retractable roof, VIP booths, and what Gonzalez called "Wynwood's only treehouse" for DJ performances. The venue became a popular nightspot in the neighborhood, hosting regular DJ sets and art shows while serving Mexican fare to late-night crowds.The venue displayed works by local and international artists, with a portion of art sales benefiting Gigi's Playhouse Miami, which provides free therapeutic and educational resources for people with Down syndrome and their families.
