Alejandra’s Mexican Restaurant Reopens in Downtown Visalia After Fire

UPDATE: Alejandra’s Mexican restaurant has officially reopened in Downtown Visalia, more than three years after a devastating fire forced its closure. The beloved local eatery, which was destroyed by flames ignited from a nearby dumpster, is welcoming customers back with open arms starting today.

The fire, which occurred in 2022, impacted several businesses in the area, including Décor to Adore and Jimmy John’s. Now rebuilt and improved, Alejandra’s is ready to serve its signature dishes to the community once again.

General Manager Saul Altamirano expressed the excitement felt by the staff: “It feels great. The staff, we have all been anxious to return back to the community, and the staff is pretty pumped as well.” Since opening, the restaurant has already welcomed hundreds of eager patrons.

Returning customers are thrilled to see familiar faces and flavors. Longtime visitor Geraldine Cole, who has been dining at Alejandra’s since 2008, remarked, “It’s exactly what we expected just coming in getting our chips and salsa.” Geraldine and her colleagues, who work across the street, have long awaited this moment and are delighted to have their favorite restaurant back.

With a capacity to accommodate about 200 customers, Alejandra’s has expanded its space by 20%. The bar area has tripled in size to seat 24, and a new patio features five additional tables. Despite the destruction from the fire, the restaurant’s core team, including the entire kitchen staff, has returned to serve the community.

Reflecting on the journey, Saul noted, “Maybe things happen for the better because now we are able to expand and have more space to feed the community.”

The grand re-opening celebration is set for Saturday, October 7, 2023, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony scheduled between 4:00PM and 5:00PM. The entire community is invited to join in the festivities.

Alejandra’s is now open from 9 AM to 10 PM Monday through Thursday, 10 AM to 10 PM on Friday and Saturday, and 9 AM to 9 PM on Sundays. For the latest updates, customers can follow Alejandra’s on social media.

This reopening marks a significant moment for Downtown Visalia, rekindling a cherished local tradition and bringing the community together once more. Don’t miss the chance to visit this revitalized landmark!