Well-known Farmersville restaurant La Mejor burns in early morning fire

FARMERSVILLE, Calif. (KFSN) -- "It's gone," said Efren Garcia.

La Mejor is more than just a restaurant for Efren Garcia.

"I actually had my wedding reception here back in '97," said Garcia.

It's a part of his family and identity. He says for as long as he can remember, he would come to get authentic tortillas, tamales and all things he was currently craving.

"Couple pounds of Carnitas, and everybody shares them with fresh tortillas or tomatillo," said Garcia. "I was literally going to come out to grab some today."

But early Saturday morning, a piece of his childhood went up in flames.

"It's sad to see this happen -- we did everything we could to knock it down. We knocked it down pretty quick," said Farmersville Fire Department Battalion Chief, Jim Thomas.

There is damage inside the building and outside; the entire patio area is now only left with char and rubble.

"This was a space where people could just eat, relax and enjoy the weather while also enjoying the food," said Rafael Vasquez, the owner's grandson.

Rafael Vasquez's grandparents owned La Mejor, a place that's been there since childhood, and it was his first job.

"It's very devastating," said Vasquez.

He lives just next door and was there when the fire broke out.

"It was a rude awakening with my dog, just kind of causing a stir," said Vasquez.

Vasquez says in 2020 and 2021, his grandparents passed away, and they were able to keep their memories alive - until now.

"We had this religious mural dedicated to them, where people could come and pray if they wanted to and pay their respects to my late grandparents as well," said Vasquez.

For Garcia, he remembers seeing the owners as he grew up and was grateful to be able to honor them after they passed.

"It's sad that the shrine is gone, along with the hard work," said Garcia.

While the cause of the fire is still unknown, Vasquez is grateful for the community's support thus far.

"We appreciate the support, and we hope and pray that we have another opportunity in the future," said Vasquez.

It's something Garcia is hoping and praying for, too.

"Hopefully, they rebuild and come back better than ever," said Garcia.

There is a GoFundMe to help employees affected by the fire.