ALMOST five months after fire gutted the property, an Albury eatery has reopened for business.
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As Thick As Thieves opened its doors for the breakfast trade on Monday for the first time since the March 21 blaze.
Co-owners and siblings Hanna and Sam Kadi said they were thrilled to be back on deck in their iconic Dean Street premises, which previously operated as Electra Cafe.
Ms Kadi said their damage bill came to about $120,000, which insurance only partially covered.
About 25 firefighters attended the fire, which was contained to the cafe before it could spread to neighbouring businesses Anthony's Shoe Repairs and Eastend Hair Studio.
"We were lucky no one was hurt and grateful no one was here when it happened," Ms Kadi said.
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Ms Kadi said As Thick As Thieves had been just days away from celebrating its first anniversary under the new business name when the fire started near the kitchen.
"The following Monday or Tuesday after the fire (on the previous Thursday) was one year under As Thick As Thieves," she said.
"Our business was going so well; we hadn't done our job in Albury yet."
As Thick As Thieves operated out of a pop-up location opposite Regent Cinemas Albury, formerly occupied by Barrafino, for three months.
Barista Mr Kadi said he was glad to back in their original premises.
"We're happy to be home," he said.
"We're back in our original shop and happy to be back on the corner; people know us for this iconic spot!"
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