Alejandra’s Restaurant Reopens After Devastating Fire, Grand Event Saturday

BREAKING: Alejandra’s Mexican Restaurant in Downtown Visalia is officially open after a devastating fire forced it to close for more than three years. The beloved local eatery, which can now accommodate 200 diners, has rebuilt and is ready to serve the community once again.

A man confessed to igniting the fire in a nearby dumpster, which spread to several businesses, including Alejandra’s, leaving a path of destruction. Now, December 9, 2023, marks a pivotal moment as the restaurant plans to host its grand reopening with a special ribbon-cutting ceremony between 4:00 PM and 5:00 PM.

Returning to the community has been an emotional journey for the staff. “It feels great, the staff, we have all been anxious to return back to the community,” said Saul Altamirano, General Manager of Alejandra’s. The restaurant has already welcomed hundreds of eager customers since opening, with many familiar faces among the kitchen staff and regular patrons.

Long-time customer Geraldine Cole expressed her excitement, “It’s exactly what we expected just coming in getting our chips and salsa.” Geraldine and her coworkers have been watching and waiting for the restaurant’s return from across the street.

The newly redesigned Alejandra’s features a tripled bar area, five new patio tables, and booths that now seat six instead of four. The aesthetic remains familiar, maintaining the nostalgic charm that has made Alejandra’s a staple in Visalia.

Despite the challenges posed by the fire, the expansion has allowed Alejandra’s to grow by approximately 20%. “Once you think about it and reflect on it, you are able to say maybe things happen for the better,” Altamirano said, emphasizing the restaurant’s commitment to serving the community.

The restaurant will operate from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM Monday through Thursday, 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM on Friday and Saturday, and 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM on Sundays. For continued updates about Alejandra’s, visit their social media pages.

This reopening not only marks a significant milestone for the restaurant but also serves as a testament to the resilience of the Visalia community. Residents are encouraged to come out and celebrate the grand reopening, marking the return of a beloved local favorite.