PHOENIX – La Santisima, a family-owned gourmet taco shop in central Phoenix, is closed for repairs after a fire did “considerable” damage to the business over the weekend.
Crews responded to the Mexican restaurant on 16th Street north of Indian School Road around 2 a.m. Saturday and found heavy smoke coming from the roof, according to the Phoenix Fire Department.
A ladder company was called in due to the size of the structure, and firefighters extinguished the flames before they could spread. No injuries were reported.
In an email to KTAR News 92.3 FM, owner Felipe Guzman said he was told by an investigator that a refrigerator motor started the destructive fire.
“The damage is indeed considerable, and while we are temporarily closed, this is not the end,” Guzman said.
La Santisima seeks help with recovery
The restaurant started a GoFundMe campaign to help with the recovery efforts. A photo posted with the campaign shows extensive fire damage in the kitchen.
“We are determined to fight with all our strength to rebuild and come back as soon as possible,” Guzman said.
La Santisima has been a popular dining destination for years, earning repeat visits with its extensive menu of tacos and other authentic Mexican fare.
The colorful building is an attraction itself, adorned with Mexican folk art and sculptures both inside and outside.
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