Nearly four years after it was extensively damaged by fire, the iconic Alkali Flat cafe 524 Restaurant is to reopen one week from today. "It will have a whole new atmosphere," vows Jose Gomez of the Mexican restaurant, which during its heyday was celebrated for drawing a broad and colorful clientele.

Gomez now owns the restaurant with his mother, Ana Maria Gomez, who is to be a manager and a server, and his father, Jose "Pepe" Gomez, who joined his brother, the late Miguel Gomez, in operating the restaurant in 1977. Miguel Gomez had opened 524 in 1969.

Jesus Torres, who had cooked at 524 for around 18 years, will be back in the restaurant's kitchen, said Jose Gomez. The cafe's original recipes for such dishes as enchiladas, canitas and tacos will be revived.

524 Restaurant No. 2 along Northgate Boulevard in South Natomas is a separate business owned by Dora Gomez, widow of Miguel Gomez.

524 Restaurant, 524 12th St., is to be open 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; the phone number is to be (916) 441-3600.