Black Bear Diner roars back to life

Black Bear Diner reopened its doors this week after a fire – the resultant smoke damage closed the popular eatery more than eight months ago. Owner Gregg Hobbs is excited to bring the restaurant back to life and welcome customers new and old.
“We’ll have a new menu for our Sonoma location but we’re keeping prices the same,” said Hobbs. “As a restaurant chain, we’ve weathered the economic downturn fairly well.  People appreciate the quality, quantity and price point of our offerings.”
Last February, a faulty gas regulator malfunctioned, causing a gas leak that ignited a pilot light. The subsequent fire destroyed the kitchen and smoke damage throughout the remainder of the restaurant called for a complete renovation.
Hobbs said the restaurant has been redone in hunting-lodge overtones with plenty of nods to Sonoma’s unique style. “Everything is new. We’re really pleased with the way it’s turned out,” said Hobbs.
Black Bear Diner offers breakfast all day, lunch and dinner. The restaurant chain has 42 locations throughout California, Arizona, Nevada, Oregon and Washington.