Pilsen community throws benefit party for employees of Nuevo Leon

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CHICAGO (FOX 32 News) - A month ago, a massive fire destroyed a landmark restaurant in Pilsen. With the building, the flames took away the livelihood of about 50 people who suddenly found themselves without a job during the holiday season.

But now, the community has pulled together to give back.

It’s much more than just a Christmas party for the employees of popular Pilsen restaurant Nuevo Leon, which burned down about a month ago. The restaurant has been owned by the Gutierrez family since it opened 52 years ago.

On Tuesday, the Pilsen community threw a holiday party for all 50 restaurants employees and their families. There was plenty of food, gifts for the kids, and of course a visit from Santa.

The restaurant's owner, Daniel Gutierrez, says he plans to rebuild and will hire back the workers he says are like family.