Fire Damages Newly Opened Blue Goose Cantina in North Richland Hills

The Tex-Mex restaurant was forced to temporarily close after a small blaze on January 31.

Feb. 1, 2026 at 10:15am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A small fire caused damage to the newly opened Blue Goose Cantina in North Richland Hills, Texas on January 31. The fire was quickly contained by the North Richland Hills Fire Department, and no injuries were reported. The cause of the fire is still under investigation by city and fire officials. The restaurant has temporarily closed as they assess the damage and work to reopen.

Why it matters

The Blue Goose Cantina was a highly anticipated new addition to the growing dining scene in the North Richland Hills area. The temporary closure due to the fire will disappoint customers and impact the restaurant's plans for its debut in the community.

The details

According to reports, the fire broke out around 7:25 a.m. on January 31 at the new Blue Goose Cantina location on North Tarrant Parkway. The North Richland Hills Fire Department responded quickly and contained the fire to a small area inside the building. While the overall damage was minimal, the restaurant was forced to temporarily close as they assess the situation.

  • The fire occurred around 7:25 a.m. on January 31, 2026.
  • The Blue Goose Cantina had recently opened on January 21, 2026.

The players

Blue Goose Cantina

A Tex-Mex restaurant chain that recently opened a new location in North Richland Hills, Texas.

North Richland Hills Fire Department

The local fire department that responded to and contained the fire at the Blue Goose Cantina.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Fire department spokesperson Will McAfee told the paper the fire was contained to a small area inside the building and that overall damage was minimal.”

— Will McAfee, Fire department spokesperson

What’s next

City and fire investigators are reviewing the scene, and the Blue Goose Cantina chain has not yet shared a timeline for reopening the North Richland Hills location.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the challenges new restaurants can face, even shortly after opening, and the importance of fire safety protocols. The community will be eager for the Blue Goose Cantina to reopen and resume serving its popular Tex-Mex cuisine.