By OnMilwaukee Staff Writers   Published Feb 06, 2006 at 1:40 PM

The competition for Mexican Restaurant dollars on South 5th Street just eased slightly with the closing of Azteca, 815 S. 5th St.

Azteca, which was owned by Hector Jimenez, originated in the space across the street which now houses Botanas, and weathered the Milwaukee restaurant market for nearly 10 years with its trademark salsa and friendly service.

The bright and airy space now has several "For Rent" signs in the windows, and the restaurant's phone line rings busy. Former patrons will sorely miss Azteca's mango margaritas, intimate patio, and smiling staff.