The Pacific Palisades fire has wreaked havoc in coastal Los Angeles, impacting not only luxury homes but also beloved restaurants frequented by celebrities. As the flames continue to threaten the region, many well-known personalities and local residents are fleeing their properties.
The Devastating Impact on Restaurants
One of the most heartbreaking losses has been the iconic Reel Inn in Malibu, known for its unpretentious charm and famous clientele, including the likes of Cindy Crawford and Paris Hilton. The restaurant went up in flames on Tuesday, leaving owners Teddy and Andy Leonard in shock.
‘I guess it just knocked the wind out of us – we couldn’t breathe. It was unthinkable,’ said Teddy Leonard.
The couple, who have owned the restaurant for nearly 36 years, shared their heartbreak with DailyMail.com, expressing concern for their employees and the community that has rallied around them during this difficult time.
A Thriving Community in Jeopardy
The Pacific Palisades fire has also engulfed other notable dining spots, including Rosenthal Wine Bar & Patio and Cafe Vida, both known for their unique flavors and community atmosphere.
Additionally, the esteemed Italian restaurant Giorgio Baldi, frequently visited by stars such as Rihanna, is under imminent threat from the wildfires.
Celebrities Forced to Evacuate
With the flames rapidly spreading, numerous celebrities have been forced to evacuate. The wildfires have scorched nearly 3,000 acres, threatening the luxurious properties of stars like Ben Affleck and Tom Hanks. Other notable establishments, including Duke’s Malibu and Nobu Malibu, have also been put on high alert.
Community Support Amidst Tragedy
In light of the devastation, Teddy Leonard has initiated a GoFundMe campaign to support her employees and plans to eventually rebuild the Reel Inn, which holds an irreplaceable place in the hearts of locals and tourists alike.
‘Our concern at the moment is for them because they live paycheck to paycheck,’ she expressed. ‘We got through Covid and we’ve gotten through a lot worse. We are hopeful for the future.’
As the situation continues to evolve and firefighting efforts ramp up, both the community and the iconic establishments hold onto hope for recovery and rebuilding post-fire.
