Two popular Mexican restaurants in Soldotna closed abruptly this week following federal charges filed against their owner, Francisco Javier Rodriguez-Rincon, who prosecutors say has been living in the United States illegally for decades.
According to a federal indictment, Rodriguez-Rincon was previously deported near Calexico, California in December 1995 and later reentered the U.S. unlawfully. The indictment also alleges he falsely claimed to be a U.S. citizen in January 2023 in an effort to gain employment and federal or state benefits.
Rodriguez-Rincon, known locally as “Pancho,” owns Señor Pancho’s and Sol Agave Mexico — both of which shuttered without warning on Thursday morning. Employees say they received text messages informing them the restaurants would be “closed for a very long time,” but no explanation was provided. A handwritten sign posted at Señor Pancho’s later stated the business had permanently closed.
Rodriguez-Rincon pleaded not guilty to the charges during an arraignment last month in Anchorage and was released on his own recognizance while the case moves forward. His attorney, federal public defender Samuel Eilers, said no significant court action is expected before the next hearing scheduled for June 10. Rodriguez-Rincon is not speaking publicly at this time on the advice of counsel.
Business records show Señor Pancho’s was incorporated in August 2021 and Sol Agave in July 2023. Both have been staples of the local dining scene and their sudden closures have sparked confusion and concern among community members.
The charges come amid an ongoing national crackdown on immigration enforcement. ICE has yet to confirm the arrest or provide details on the case.