The Once and Future Grill

At one time the Firehouse Grill stood out as one of the better dining establishments in Bishop.  Although I do not know the reason it closed, it was a loss for the community.  For several years the old house, located on the highway north of town, across from the fire station, became the home of an antique store and a video rental place.  It always seemed a shame for it was a good location with a nice setting and my visits to the grill had been memorable.

a pleasant garden

Not too long ago, another grill took up residence in the old restaurant.  Astorga’s Mexican Grill had been located in the strip mall out by Value Sports for about a decade and was known for their consistent food.  Personally I don’t like strip mall dining rooms; there is something about the long, narrow layout with a wall of windows at one end that has never worked for me.  When the lease ran out last fall the owners looked for a new location and before long a sign appeared on the highway at the old Firehouse location.

no hurry, no worry

On the suggestion of a neighbor I stopped by earlier this week for lunch.  A path through the outdoor seating area led from the parking lot to the front door.  Inside a splash of color greeted my hungry eyes.  I took a seat near a window overlooking the highway and a basket of chips with a bowl of salsa were delivered.  For lunch I ordered a simple chicken burrito then powered down some crunchy chips watching the world go by outside the window.

new digs

My burrito was visually appealing, hot and tasty with just enough red sauce to compliment the dish and not overpower it.  Being hungry I dove right in and nearly forgot to get a photo.  After paying for lunch I spoke a bit with the family proprietors and told them of my blog.  I was grateful to see the old grill come back to life and anticipate much success for them at this location.

a tasty lunch