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El Pelon & Next Door Closed After Brookline Fire

  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2026/01/22 .. pelon-next-door-closed-after-brookline-fire.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Thursday, January 22nd 2026 at 22:03 GMT by Boston.com
      Locale: UNITED STATES

Brookline, MA - January 23rd, 2026 - A beloved Brookline institution, El Pelon Taqueria & Bar, and its adjacent wine and cheese shop, Next Door Wine & Cheese, are closed indefinitely following a significant fire that erupted Thursday evening. The blaze, which broke out around 9:30 p.m. on Cypress Street, has left the community reeling and the future of these two businesses hanging in the balance.

The Brookline Fire Department responded swiftly to the scene, finding visible flames emanating from the roof of El Pelon. Fire Chief Thomas Yearsley confirmed that despite the intensity of the fire, it was successfully contained, and remarkably, no injuries were reported. This crucial factor spared the community from further tragedy, a sentiment echoed by residents and local officials alike.

"We're deeply relieved that no one was hurt," stated Brookline Town Select Board member, Sarah Chen, in a brief press conference Friday morning. "The loss of these businesses is significant, but the priority is always the safety and well-being of our residents."

While the immediate danger has passed, the road to recovery for El Pelon and Next Door is expected to be long and complex. Both establishments remain closed "indefinitely," a necessary precaution while a thorough assessment of the damage is conducted and repair plans are formulated. This indefinite closure significantly impacts not only the business owners but also the employees and the surrounding local economy.

A Community Staple, Now Facing Uncertainty

El Pelon Taqueria & Bar has long been a cornerstone of the Brookline dining scene. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, delicious tacos, and popular margarita selection, it attracts a diverse clientele from across the region. The restaurant frequently hosted live music and special events, further cementing its role as a community hub. The closure represents a significant loss of a cherished social space.

Next Door Wine & Cheese, situated directly alongside El Pelon, complements the dining experience with a curated selection of fine wines, artisanal cheeses, and charcuterie. The combination of the two businesses created a unique and attractive destination, particularly popular for pre-dinner gatherings and celebrations. The loss of Next Door also impacts Brookline's options for high-quality wine and cheese selections, a noted specialty within the town.

Investigation Underway, Cause Remains Unknown

The Brookline Fire Department, collaborating with the State Fire Marshal's office, is currently investigating the cause of the fire. While preliminary assessments suggest a significant fire, the specific origin and triggering factors are yet to be determined. Officials have indicated that the investigation could take several weeks, as painstaking work is required to meticulously examine the scene and interview potential witnesses.

"We are committed to conducting a thorough and comprehensive investigation to determine the cause of this fire," Chief Yearsley stated. "Our priority is to ensure the safety of our community and prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future."

The incident has understandably sparked a wave of concern and support from the Brookline community. A GoFundMe campaign has already been launched to assist the owners of El Pelon and Next Door with rebuilding efforts and employee support. Local residents are also organizing fundraising events and offering assistance with the cleanup process.

The future remains uncertain for El Pelon Taqueria & Bar and Next Door Wine & Cheese, but the outpouring of community support provides a glimmer of hope that these beloved Brookline businesses can rise from the ashes and once again serve as vital parts of the town's vibrant landscape.