Nashville Chef Reopens Restaurant After Tragic Shooting
Nashville, Tenn. is buzzing with excitement as a beloved local chef prepares to reopen her restaurant after a heartbreaking incident that rocked the community. Chef Erica Fizer, who was shot in a tragic mass shooting on Easter Sunday, is set to unveil her revamped eatery this Sunday under a new name: Roasted Flavors. This grand opening is not just about food; it’s a celebration of resilience, recovery, and the power of community support.
A Journey of Bravery and Change
It’s been a whirlwind seven months for Fizer, who experienced the devastation firsthand when a violent altercation erupted at her previous location, Roasted in Salemtown. That day became a dark chapter when Anton Rucker, a convicted felon, opened fire, injuring seven people and taking the life of a 33-year-old father. In the midst of the chaos, Fizer was shot in the leg while trying to break up a fight between two strangers.
Despite the horrifying experience, Fizer’s spirit never wavered. She recalls the moment vividly, stating, “My adrenaline, I guess, made me not realize it. But even the pain just wasn’t there. I was worried about my employees, worried about the customers.” The emotional toll of the event weighed heavily on her as she learned about the tragic loss of life. “I was literally worried about the moment after, the days after, two weeks after,” she added.
Starting Fresh
After months of physical and emotional healing, Fizer is ready to move forward. She has teamed up with the other owners and is rebranding Roasted Flavors, a merge of visions that promises to bring Southern comfort food back to the heart of Nashville’s Midtown. “And, you know, just literally in the midst of it all, we still had to think of how to survive,” Fizer expressed. “I can’t say if I am ready right now, but I mean, I have no choice but to get ready.” And ready she is.
The vibrant brunch spot is set to welcome back its loyal patrons and new faces alike. With a menu that celebrates the flavors of the South, it aims to create a warm and inviting environment where memories can be made, joy can be shared, and of course, delicious food can be enjoyed.
Welcoming Back the Team
A heartening aspect of this new chapter is the return of nearly all of Fizer’s previous employees. Their support and dedication have only strengthened her resolve to make the reopening a bright moment for the community. “I’m just glad that I can give everybody that had faith and believed in me during this downtime. I’m just glad that we’re here now,” Fizer remarked.
Mark Your Calendars!
So, if you’re in Nashville, clear your Sunday schedule! Roasted Flavors is set to open its doors at 10 AM on Demonbreun St., inviting everyone to come and savor the revival of a cherished local eatery. Whether you’re a long-time supporter or visiting for the first time, there’s no doubt you will feel the warmth and resilience that have been poured into every aspect of this restaurant.
The journey may have been challenging, but Erica Fizer is proving that even after heartbreak, it is possible to rise, rebuild, and thrive. Come join in the celebration—Roasted Flavors is ready to serve up not just food but also a sense of community and hope!
