Tomasita's Albuquerque Reopens Following Six-Week Fire Closure

Tomasita’s in Albuquerque reopened on Monday following a six-week closure triggered by a fire involving an exhaust vent, KOB 4 reported.

The restaurant, a New Mexico staple for 52 years, had been closed since the end of September. The reopening brings all 80 employees back to the facility during one of the establishment’s busiest periods.

For the owners, returning to normal operations provides relief after the fire. George Gundrey, one of the owners, noted the limited scope of the damage helped expedite the process.

Tomasita's reopens after fire

“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,” Gundrey said.

The closure forced a temporary shift for the restaurant’s workforce. Kaela Childs, an employee of four years, spent the interim working at the company’s Santa Fe location.

During the six-week hiatus, the owners provided compensation to the staff. Childs noted that the community's reaction to the closure showed how much the restaurant matters locally.

Tomasita’s owner reflects on journey ahead of reopening after fire #community #newmexico #ABQ

“It’s been, I missed everybody a lot for sure. I missed all my customers, all my crew,” Childs said. She added that seeing how much the community cared about the restaurant’s absence was “very lovely.”

Owners George Gundrey and Georgia Maryol view the restaurant as a provider of “local soul food.” Maryol emphasized that the quality of their signature red chile is a primary driver of customer loyalty.

092526 jw restaurateur 2.jpg (copy) — Photo: santafenewmexican.com

According to Maryol, the red chile is prepared using pods to maintain its specific flavor profile. This traditional method remains a cornerstone of the brand’s identity in New Mexico.

With the doors back open, the staff is preparing for an immediate influx of patrons. Childs expressed excitement about the return, encouraging customers to visit the Albuquerque location now that operations have resumed.