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Mark Wahlberg's latest restaurant venture in Las Vegas, Flecha Cantina, faced an unexpected setback on Nov. 6, the night before its planned ribbon-cutting ceremony. A fire broke out on the patio around 5:30 p.m., stemming from a defective propane fire pit, as confirmed by a spokesperson for the restaurant. "Thankfully, no one was injured," they noted, adding that interior damage was avoided thanks to prompt action by the fire crew.
The Clark County Fire Department responded swiftly to reports of the blaze, containing the fire before it could spread beyond the patio. By the time firefighters arrived, the restaurant had been evacuated, and activated sprinklers controlled the flames. Surveillance footage revealed that the fire began within the fire pit itself. Firefighters successfully managed the incident, even securing the propane tanks to prevent further hazard.
Reports confirm that Flecha Cantina reopened just hours later, at around 7 p.m., following a full recharge of the sprinkler system. The incident caused only minor damage, limited to the fire pit and a nearby chair. The restaurant's team assured the public that normal operations would resume immediately, allowing the grand opening event planned for Nov. 7 to go forward as scheduled.
Wahlberg, known for his entrepreneurial pursuits, launched Flecha Cantina in Las Vegas only three weeks prior, following the success of the original location in Huntington Beach, California, which opened in June. The restaurant offers a unique blend of traditional Mexican flavors with contemporary twists and has quickly garnered popularity.
Wahlberg's move to Las Vegas in 2022 with his wife, Rhea Durham, and their four children was motivated by the city's potential for family and business growth. "It's a place where my kids can thrive and pursue their interests," he shared in an interview with PEOPLE earlier this year. The family's transition has allowed Wahlberg to explore more business opportunities in a market that supports his expansion goals.
Local authorities noted that the fire's timing, right before the high-profile opening event, presented an unexpected challenge. However, the quick action by both restaurant staff and fire responders ensured that Flecha Cantina could proceed with its launch as planned. The efficient handling of the fire incident underscored the safety measures in place at Wahlberg's establishment, reinforcing the restaurant's reputation as a well-managed venue.
Flecha Cantina's team remains optimistic about the restaurant's future despite the minor setback. The Las Vegas outlet, designed to be a vibrant dining spot, reflects Wahlberg's commitment to creating memorable experiences for patrons in the city's bustling culinary scene. The grand opening proceeded as planned, marking a resilient start for Wahlberg's venture in Las Vegas.
