Napa, California — C Casa, a well-known Mexican eatery located in the bustling Oxbow Public Market, recently shut down permanently following a federal probe that identified violations of federal child labor laws, allegations which the restaurant had contested. After approximately 15 years of operation, the restaurant made its closure announcement over the weekend, ceasing operations as of Saturday.
In a heartfelt message shared on their website, the restaurant expressed gratitude to their customers, stating, “It is with both gratitude and a heavy heart that we announce C CASA has permanently closed its doors. As we say goodbye, know that C CASA will always hold a special place in our hearts because of you. Thank you for making these years unforgettable.”
The closure came shortly after the U.S. Department of Labor reported violations involving minors. According to the department, C Casa employed children as young as 14 who were working beyond legally permitted hours on school days and were tasked with operating potentially dangerous equipment.
Following their investigation, the Department of Labor imposed a fine of $45,570 on C Casa. Additionally, the restaurant was ordered to compensate with $3,300 in lost opportunity wages to an employee who, the department noted, was not provided appropriate accommodations to express breast milk during her shifts.
Catherine Bergen, owner of C Casa, has voiced her objection to the fines and the allegations, indicating plans to challenge them through legal means. She previously mentioned to The Press Democrat that the penalties did not fairly reflect the situation.
Bergen responded to the Department of Labor’s findings last December, acknowledging that three young workers were involved, who remained employed at the restaurant. According to her, the work schedules and responsibilities of these minors had been adjusted and a manager responsible for the scheduling errors had been dismissed earlier in the year.
She also addressed the issue concerning the lactating employee, noting that she had apologized to the worker and had since addressed the concerns regarding space for milk expression. Bergen confirmed that this employee continues to be a part of the C Casa team.
As of now, requests for further comment from Bergen, her attorney, and the restaurant’s media representative remain unanswered.
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