CORNELIA, Ga. — Renovations are continuing at Casa Bariachi following a fire in late October, with the restaurant’s owner now targeting the last week of January for a reopening.
Owner Veronica Fuentes told Now Habersham‘s Hazel Cording the project has taken longer than initially expected after damage was found beyond the area directly impacted by the fire.
“At the beginning we thought we were just going to fix the part that was burned or caught on fire,” Fuentes said. “But once we started looking at everything and the smell, we decided to do bigger renovations, and that’s what’s taking longer.”
Fuentes said smoke odor had permeated the building, including walls and furniture, prompting more extensive repairs. City inspections and updated code requirements have also played a role in the timeline, she said.
As work continues, Fuentes said she is hopeful the pace will pick up this month and allow the restaurant to reopen by late January, pending final approvals.
When Casa Bariachi reopens, Fuentes said customers can expect a celebratory atmosphere, including activities for families and adults, drink specials, and entertainment.
“We want to do special things for them,” she said, adding that many regular customers have been eagerly awaiting the restaurant’s return. “We can’t wait to see our friends.”
Fuentes said she expects many familiar faces to return when the restaurant reopens, including most of the kitchen staff and some longtime servers.
“I will definitely be here,” she said. “I can’t wait to see my friends and my customers.”
Casa Bariachi has been a longtime fixture in Cornelia, and Fuentes said the renovations mark a fresh start for the new year.
“New plans for the new year, new renovations, and a lot of new fun,” she said.
A firm reopening date is expected to be announced later this month.
