‘Unimaginable’ loss as restaurant destroyed by fire in southern Ontario

The owners of an Italian restaurant that was destroyed by a fire this week in southern Ontario say they are feeling “unimaginable” devastation.

A blaze tore through Amalfi’s Trattoria & Bar, located at 3990 Erie Road in Fort Erie’s Crystal Beach, on Tuesday.

“Two years ago, we purchased the restaurant with the hope of creating a place for great food, laughter, and lasting memories for our community and our cross-border friends,” the owners wrote in a message posted on the restaurant’s Instagram account.

“We know how much this building meant to so many, whether you knew it as Amalfi’s, San Vitos, Amarettos, or The Pines. A building that stood strong for so many years is now gone, and the devastation we feel is unimaginable. Never did we think the end of such an era would come in this worst case way.”

Kevin Beauchamp, a spokesperson for the Town of Fort Erie, told INsauga.com that emergency crews responded to the scene at 5:33 a.m. on Tuesday.

He said it took most of the day to extinguish the fire.

“The roof structure was compromised requiring a piece of equipment to assist in removing the roof structure to get to the material burning,” he said.

Thirty firefighters responded.

No injuries were reported.

Beauchamp said Thursday that the cause of the fire is still under investigation.

Almafi’s owners said that in the midst of the devastation, they have been touched by the support they’ve received.

“We have felt so much warmth from the beautiful stories shared and the incredible words of encouragement from our community,” they wrote.

“The support from local businesses and residents has truly touched us.”

The owners also thanked first responders.

“Your hard work and dedication do not go unnoticed. We are so grateful for your efforts,” they said.

They also thanked their team, customers, and shared a moment of reflection.

“We will forever cherish the memories. The lively patio nights, incredible bands, karaoke, laughter, and all the good times shared within those walls. Those moments will stay with us always.”

 

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A post shared by Amalfis Trattoria & Bar (@amalfistrattoria)

Lead image via Facebook / Lily Crawford