UPDATE: A beloved restaurant in Altadena, California, is set to reopen this weekend under a new name—Betsy—after being severely affected by the Eaton Fire nearly eight months ago. The grand reopening is scheduled for Saturday, May 22, 2023, at 5 PM, marking a significant moment for the community devastated by the destructive blaze.
The Eaton Fire wreaked havoc on Altadena, displacing thousands and destroying nearly 10,000 structures, including the home of local chef, Tyler Wells. “It was surreal watching the fire from just outside the restaurant,” Wells recounted. His establishment, formerly known as Burnee, has undergone a transformation and is now named in honor of his late mother, symbolizing resilience and community spirit.
Wells expressed his gratitude toward his dedicated staff and supportive community, stating, “Time went by a lot of it had to do with this crew. I would get texts and calls like, ‘Hey, I don’t ever want to work at another restaurant; we should reopen.’” The enthusiasm from the team highlights the strong bonds forged during challenging times.
The reopening of Betsy is more than just a business revival; it’s a beacon of hope for a community still healing. “It’s always been about community. Having spent this summer on a farm, I became deeply invested in agriculture. The mission is just to do good. This is a hurting community, and I got through my hurt, fortunately, and I’m in a good position to give again,” Wells added.
The first service at Betsy is expected to bring together not only the restaurant staff but also a community that has remained steadfast throughout the recovery process. “We’ve created a family here, and it’s just love and excitement in this restaurant,” said Betsy server, Tom Oakes.
As Altadena continues to rebuild, Wells’ decision to reopen now, even before complete recovery, demonstrates his commitment to helping the community recover. The emotional weight of this reopening is palpable, as it embraces the spirit of togetherness and support in the aftermath of disaster.
This weekend’s opening is anticipated to be a celebration of resilience and unity, inviting locals and visitors alike to partake in the revitalization of Altadena. The journey of Betsy represents a significant step forward, reminding everyone of the importance of community in overcoming adversity.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as Betsy opens its doors and begins a new chapter in Altadena’s recovery.
