“¡Viva Las Manitas!” is an exhibit of photographs by Alan Pogue that document the remarkable 25-year history of Las Manitas Avenue Café. The photographs will be on display from September 7th through 30th at Las Manitas, located at 211 Congress Avenue in downtown Austin. An opening reception will be held on Friday, September 7th from 6:00 – 8:00 pm and will feature music from Pati McLean & Crash! Bam! Boom!

For over twenty-five years Las Manitas has been an integral part of the Austin community. Its story began when sisters Cynthia and Lidia Perez started selling tacos on The Drag by the University of Texas. After finding a downtown building with cheap rent, the Perez sisters opened Las Manitas in 1981. The small eatery grew and eventually became one of the more popular restaurants in town. But Las Manitas has always offered much more than good food.

Since its humble beginnings, Las Manitas has been widely known as a gathering place that attracted folks from all walks of life. Politicians and business people have negotiated deals over breakfast and lunch; tourists designated Las Manitas a "hot spot" visit during South by Southwest; and celebrities, musicians, and dignitaries consider it a "must make" stop on their busy itineraries.

Las Manitas has offered itself as a unique gift to the community, a place where lively dialogue is encouraged and Latino culture enriched. At the same time Las Manitas has also created a welcoming forum for all of Austin. It is here where many artists, musicians, and poets had their first opportunity to publicly perform, exhibit their work, or share their message with others. Special events and art exhibits for children have significantly enhanced what students learn in school. And of course, families have gathered every weekend to enjoy meals and spend time with each other.

“!Viva Las Manitas!” celebrates the history of an important Austin landmark, and allows us to envision all that is yet to come. The vivid images captured through the lens of Alan Pogue offer a look back at the past and a peak into the years ahead. The exhibit gives the distinct expectation that Las Manitas will continue to offer everything that has made it so special. Long live Las Manitas, indeed!