Tomasita’s in Albuquerque reopens after fire

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Tomasita’s reopened after a six-week closure from a fire, bringing all 80 employees back to work at one of the restaurant’s busiest times.

The Albuquerque restaurant reopened Monday after closing at the end of September because of a fire involving an exhaust vent.

Kaela Childs has worked at Tomasita’s for four years. During the closure, Childs said the owners provided compensation, and she temporarily transferred to the Santa Fe location.

“It’s been, I missed everybody a lot for sure. I missed all my customers, all my crew,” said Kaela Childs.

For owners George Gundrey and Georgia Maryol, reopening meant more than restarting business after the 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.” said George Gundrey.

The restaurant chain has been a New Mexico staple for 52 years, and Maryol said its red chile keeps customers coming back.

“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,” said Georgia Maryol.

Childs said the support from customers and the community made the return even more meaningful.

“It was very nice to see that the community cared so much that we were gone, which was very lovely.” said Childs. “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.”

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