Sierra Grill Smokehouse reopens after kitchen fire

Nearly two years after a kitchen fire forced it to close, Sierra Grill Smokehouse in North Auburn has officially reopened and the community response has been immediate. The popular restaurant, located on Highway 49, has been an Auburn staple since it opened in 2010. After renovations as a result of the fire, Sierra Grill reopened its doors in early January after being shuttered since February 2024. According to CAL FIRE's Nevada-Yuba-Placer Unit, crews responded to reports of a commercial structure fire at the restaurant in February 2024. Firefighters attacked the blaze from the rear of the building while conducting a search to ensure no one was inside. Drone operators provided aerial intelligence on fire behavior and building conditions to support crews on the ground. The fire was ultimately contained to the kitchen area, but the damage to the restaurant was extensive. Manager Nader Haddad said the fire was connected to the restaurant's smoker and caused significant damage, requiring extensive repairs. "There was a lot of damage," Haddad said. The closure meant rebuilding much of the kitchen area before the restaurant could safely reopen. After months of restoration work, Sierra Grill welcomed customers back in early January, according to Haddad. Sierra Grill hoped to reopen much sooner. However, extended construction work and county permitting delays pushed the timeline back, according to What Now Sacramento. The restaurant originally targeted a January 2025 return. Since reopening, business has been strong. "We've been busy every day," Haddad said. "People are excited that we're back." Sierra Grill's return marks the end of a challenging chapter for the local eatery and a fresh start heading into 2026.