Just over a year ago, a Christmas Day fire damaged El Toro Bravo restaurant in Capitola, forcing the 58-year-old business to close.
Rebuilding the much-loved Mexican eatery has taken a stupefying amount of work, as well as navigating the red tape typical of such projects, said Jon Baron, who owns the business with his wife, Kristy.
“It took us a year, 391 days,” he said.
Baron said he announced the Wednesday reopening via social media and by word of mouth, and the community that has patronized the restaurant since it opened in 1967 responded emphatically.
By noon, every seat in the place was full, and Baron was standing outside with a notepad, making a wait list.
“The community’s been amazing,” he said. “We’ve got a lot of loyal customers.”
The fire broke out Dec. 24, 2024, in an adjacent apartment building. Nobody was injured, but firefighters cut vent holes in the roof to help battle the blaze.
“We had to rebuild the restaurant from the inside out,” Baron said.
El Toro Bravo opened Sept. 27, 1967, and has always been managed by the same family.
“My wife’s the third generation,” Baron said. “It’s family-owned and operated, and we’re rooted in the community.”
The business supports local youth soccer teams and other programs.
“If you want a good meal, come on down,” Baron said.
Outside, Tracy Tanner said she’s been a customer since she was 17. She drove 30 miles from Marina to get her favorite beef chimichanga.
The trip, she said, came with the caveat that she also bring one for her husband and mother-in-law.
“So it’s a little more pricey, but they’re happy, so I’m happy.”
Sitting next to her in the newly refurbished outdoor eating area was Catherine Dobbins — a customer since 1971 — who came from Scotts Valley to be there.
“I just love them,” she said. “I love their food. I couldn’t wait for them to open. Trust me, it’s worth it. I wouldn’t miss it.”
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El Toro Bravo is located at 123 Monterey Street in Capitola. For information, visit eltorobravocapitola.com or call 476-1553.
