SALT LAKE CITY, UT – After enduring a devastating three-alarm fire in downtown Salt Lake City this past August, White Horse Spirits and Kitchen is preparing to reopen its doors in January 2024. The fire, which originated at the nearby London Belle Supper Club, left multiple businesses in the area significantly impacted, but White Horse is now on the path to recovery and revitalization. The scene at White Horse, located on Main Street, has transformed from one of destruction to a bustling construction zone. Jason LeCates, the managing partner at White Horse, expressed optimism about the rebuilding process, noting that most of the structure remained intact despite the fire's flames never reaching their section of the building. "The most exciting time is seeing things come together," LeCates stated, as crews work diligently to restore the establishment. Although a portion of the roof collapsed during the fire, the building’s core remains sound, allowing for an expedited rebuilding process. As construction progresses, one of the most exciting developments has been the installation of a brand-new bar, while the team has also preserved the restaurant's iconic signage and shelves, waiting to be filled with the familiar offerings that patrons have come to love. "It's been kind of a wild ride since August, a lot of ups and downs, but we're excited to come back new and bring back all the great energy, food, drinks, and service to Main Street," said Matt Crandall, director of operations and partner at White Horse and its sister establishment, Whiskey Street. The return of White Horse is not just about business but also about community. Crandall emphasized the importance of the restaurant in the lives of its patrons, stating, "A lot of people have created a lot of memories over the years." The reopening is seen as a beacon of hope for the neighborhood, which has been grappling with the aftermath of the fire's destruction. In preparation for the reopening, the management team has reached out to former employees to gauge their interest in returning to work. However, the passage of time has seen many shift jobs, prompting the team to post help-wanted ads to attract new talent. "It's been a while, and a lot of them have moved on, so we have help-wanted ads out," LeCates explained, highlighting the challenge of rebuilding not just the physical space but also the team that made the establishment a success. The iconic White Horse sign was reinstalled last week, a visual symbol of the restaurant's resilience and a reminder that the establishment will soon welcome back its loyal customers. The team is targeting a soft opening during the week of January 19, with a full reopening scheduled for January 22. This timeline not only aims to restore the business but also to contribute positively to the recovery of the surrounding area. While White Horse is set to make a comeback, the future of Whiskey Street, located next door, remains uncertain. LeCates noted that while both businesses were affected by the fire, Whiskey Street still faces significant hurdles, including obtaining necessary permits and navigating insurance issues before it can begin the rebuilding process. The team at White Horse hopes that their reopening will serve as a catalyst for the broader recovery of the block, fostering a sense of hope and renewal in the community. "We hope that we're the first step of the block trying to heal. We know that we're just one component of that. We need to see all of these affected restaurants get open," LeCates remarked, emphasizing the collective effort required to restore the vibrant atmosphere that once defined the downtown area. The fire that impacted White Horse and its neighboring establishments was a stark reminder of the fragility of community businesses. As the team prepares to reopen, they are not only focused on serving food and drinks but also on reconnecting with a community that has supported them through thick and thin. The journey has been challenging, but the impending return of White Horse is a testament to resilience and the enduring spirit of local businesses in the face of adversity. In conclusion, the reopening of White Horse Spirits and Kitchen is not just a business milestone; it symbolizes recovery, hope, and the strength of community ties. As Salt Lake City looks forward to January, the anticipation for White Horse's return is palpable, promising an exciting new chapter for both the restaurant and its patrons.