Fall River Portuguese restaurant damaged by fire looking to open soon

A Fall River restaurant known for serving authentic and popular Portuguese cuisine plans to re-open soon after being damaged by fire.

At approximately 5:45 p.m. on May 30th, 2023, a call came into dispatch for heavy smoke showing from Marisqueira Azores Restaurant on 1445 South Main Street.

According to then Fire Chief Roger St. Martin, crews arrived to see heavy fire toward the rear of the building. 4 engines, 2 ladders, 1 heavy rescue, 2 command units, 1 squad, and 2 ambulances were called to the scene.

St. Martin stated that 2 firefighters suffered non-life-threatening injuries and it took just over an hour to get the flames under control.

Substantial damage occurred to the kitchen and storage area in addition to two apartments in the rear of the building which displaced 12 people.

The restaurant at the time thanked the public for their support and made it clear that they planned on re-opening.

“I would like to take this time to thank everyone for the outstanding support we are getting!!! As a result of a fire in the back of the building where we are located, we will have to be closed temporary until the damage of the storage room and kitchen can be fixed. Hopefully, the time will not be long, and we are really looking forward to keep bringing to our customers and community in general the good food and service we’ve been doing for the last 18 years. Once again thank you very much for all the support.”

Renovations have been taking place and, according to ownership, the hope is that they will reopen in April.

Marisqueira is known for fixing your favorite seafood or meat in various Portuguese dishes. You can even order appetizers and sandwiches that are part of their authentic Portuguese menu.