Rolymie Bakery reopens after fire

Almost 17 months after arson destroyed a south Edmonton strip mall, a longtime family business has reopened its doors.

Long lines and hungry bellies marked a heartwarming comeback for Rolymie Bakery, a Filipino-owned shop 17 months in the making.

Rodvie Barnachea, manager of Rolymie Bakery in Edmonton’s Menisa neighbourhood, said the wait has been difficult.

“It just took too long, honestly,” said Barnachea.

In May 2024, the strip mall where the family’s diner is located went up in flames. Police called it an arson and are still investigating. The fire forced several businesses, including Rolymie, to close their doors.

“When it happened, honestly, we thought we only had smoke damage and it was going to be a month, and then here we are 17 months later. It’s been a long time,” said Barnachea.

More than a year later, signs of the fire remain, and a pharmacy and a pizza shop next door are still closed and undergoing repairs. For the Barnachea family, finally reopening brings both relief and gratitude after months of uncertainty.

Barnachea said the restaurant could have reopened much earlier if the process with insurance companies and inspectors had gone more smoothly.

Customers say they’re simply grateful the bakery is back.

“I’ve been waiting for the grand re-opening. The Filipino community was missing this establishment because this family is not just making great food, they’re also a supporter of the community,” said Loida Lumanlan, a customer for more than 10 years.

The timing of the reopening is especially meaningful, coming just before the holidays, one of the busiest times of year for the Filipino community.

“Relieved for them and relieved for us because Christmas is coming, right, and we need kakanin for our gatherings. Dessert and all of our comfort food, so we’re very thankful we’re back to normal,” said Maria Sumalinog-Fawcett, a customer since 2004.

For the Barnachea family, the reopening marks the start of a new chapter — and a return to doing what they love most: serving their community.

“I just want to thank the community for coming back. It’s been 17 months, but it feels like it was just yesterday we were just open with this turnout,” said Barnachea.