A strip mall fire damaged a family-owned restaurant and nearby businesses early Monday in Torrance.
Flames raced through Texas Loosey's Chili Parlor & Saloon, where firefighters responded just after 2 a.m. The restaurant opened in 1982.
"This is a very important place because it's been through so many generations," said Kevin Esparza, the owner's son. "My dad used to bring me here when I was very small.
"He's put a lot of work into here. He works 16-, 18-hour days, seven days a week. The community is very close to us."
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A neighboring dental office and other businesses were damaged. Firefighters were still putting out hot spots about two hours later.
No injuries were reported.
Details about a cause were not immediately available.
