December 18th, 2009
Electrical fire forces evacuation at Herbert’s

A San Marcos fireman rolls up a water hose Friday afternoon after a small fire forced an evacuation of Herbert's Taco Hut. PHOTO by BRAD ROLLINS.

STAFF REPORT

A small fire forced an evacuation of lunchtime crowds at the popular Herbert’s Taco Hut on Friday.

The popular restaurant on Riverside Drive was about 25 percent occupied when workers in the kitchen reported smoke pouring out of an electrical outlet, Fire Marshal Ken Bell said.

The restaurant and adjoining grocery store were evacuated as firefighters responded to the scene.

“Alot of people got a free meal,” said owner Herbert Rizk Jr.

Bell said the building sustained moderate smoke damage with some non-structural fire damage to walls. He said Friday evening that owners were already making progress toward reopening.

“We do not think the business is going to be down long,” Bell said.

Herbert’s Grocery opened in 1972 and the restaurant next door opened four years later, Rizk said.