A beloved family-run taqueria in Southeast Portland, El Porvenir, has been forced to close its doors indefinitely following a devastating fire. The blaze, which broke out early Wednesday morning, has left the owners, Mariela Lazaro and Jesus Zacarias, grappling with the loss of their primary source of income.

Located on Southeast 82nd Avenue, El Porvenir was known for its affordable $1 tacos and had been a staple in the community for four years. The fire started outside the restaurant, with investigators suspecting a discarded cigarette as the likely cause. Fortunately, Portland Fire & Rescue crews were able to extinguish the flames, but not before significant damage was done.

For Lazaro and Zacarias, the impact of the fire extends beyond the physical damage to their business. The couple has faced numerous challenges in keeping the restaurant running, including rising food costs. Now, they must navigate the uncertainty of losing their daily income, which supports their family, including their four children.

Community Support and Determination to Rebuild

Despite the setback, Lazaro and Zacarias are determined to rebuild. “They are not going to stop us, we are going to come back, we are coming strongly,” Zacarias vowed, standing amidst the charred remains of their restaurant. The family has initiated a GoFundMe campaign to help cover the expenses needed to recover from the fire.

The community’s support will be crucial as the family assesses the damage and explores their options for reopening. The fire at El Porvenir is a stark reminder of the challenges small businesses face and the resilience required to overcome them.

Original reporting: KGW Portland — read the source article.