80 Tomasita's Staff Return to Work After Six-Week Fire Closure

Tomasita's in Albuquerque reopened its doors on Monday, bringing back all 80 employees after a six-week shutdown. The closure began at the end of September when a fire broke out in the restaurant's exhaust vent system.

The interruption kept the dining room dark for roughly 45 days. Employee Kaela Childs, who has worked for the chain for four years, moved to the Santa Fe branch during the break. Owners George Gundrey and Georgia Maryol stated that they provided compensation to staff during the closure period.

Gundrey described the relief of returning to service so quickly. "I never thought we would not be back. I knew it. I was very relieved that it was only on the roof, though, and it was only six weeks and not six months," he said. The damage remained limited to the roof structure, allowing for a faster repair schedule than the chain initially feared.

The restaurant has operated in New Mexico for 52 years. Maryol attributed the chain's longevity to its signature dish. "Our red chile is made from pods, and so that's what makes it so tasty. And that's our local soul food, and that's what we're known for," she said.

Childs noted that the absence created a noticeable gap for regulars. "It's been, I missed everybody a lot for sure. I missed all my customers, all my crew," she said. She also highlighted the reaction from the local community during the closure. "It was very nice to see that the community cared so much that we were gone, which was very lovely."

The staff is now fully scheduled for the week. Childs invited customers to visit the location. "I'm going to be here all day, so come and visit us. You know, it's very exciting. We hope to see everybody coming in," she said.