BREAKING: Alejandra’s Mexican restaurant in Downtown Visalia has officially reopened its doors after a devastating fire forced it to close for over three years. The fire, ignited by a man who admitted to starting it in a nearby dumpster, destroyed multiple businesses including Alejandra’s, leaving behind a trail of ash and debris.
Now, the beloved local staple is back, and the excitement is palpable. “It feels great; the staff is pumped to return to the community,” said Saul Altamirano, General Manager of Alejandra’s. Hundreds have already flocked to the restaurant since its soft reopening, eager to enjoy their favorite dishes once again.
The reopening represents more than just a return; it’s a rebirth. Alejandra’s has undergone significant renovations, increasing its capacity to accommodate 200 patrons. The bar area has tripled in size, now seating 24 guests, and the patio has been enhanced with five new tables. The familiar ambiance remains, as many of the same employees, including the entire kitchen staff, are back on board.
“I think it’s just the nostalgia,” shared long-time customer Geraldine Cole, who has been dining at Alejandra’s since 2008. “It just feels like something’s been missing.” For years, she and her colleagues watched from across the street, anticipating the restaurant’s return. Now, the new and improved Alejandra’s is not only a familiar sight but also a vital part of the community’s identity.
Reflecting on the challenges faced, Saul remarked, “Maybe things happen for the better, because now we are able to expand and have more space to feed the community.” This week, the restaurant will host a grand reopening ceremony on October 21, 2023, with a ribbon-cutting event planned between 4:00 PM and 5:00 PM. The entire community is invited to celebrate this momentous occasion.
Alejandra’s will operate from 9 AM to 10 PM Monday through Thursday, 10 AM to 10 PM Friday and Saturday, and 9 AM to 9 PM on Sundays.
For more updates, follow Alejandra’s on social media and be part of this exciting comeback. The restaurant’s return is a testament to resilience, community spirit, and the enduring power of shared memories.
