‘We’re all gutted by the loss,’ Fire at Deerhurst Resort causes millions in damage

A fire at the Antler Steakhouse at Deerhurst Resort caused millions in damage.

Thick smoke and flames could be seen shooting into the sky from Deerhurst Resort’s Antler Steakhouse in Huntsville on Friday morning, causing millions of dollars in damage and prompting a large-scale response from firefighters.

A release from the Huntsville/Lake of Bays Fire Department says crews were called to the Deerhurst-Highlands Drive loghouse restaurant around 6:30 a.m.

“Upon arrival, firefighters encountered a well-involved structure fire,” the release noted.

More than 30 firefighters and nine trucks from all five of the department’s stations were dispatched to the scene. A ladder truck was brought in to fight the fire from above, helping crews gain control of the flames shooting from the roof and prevent the blaze from spreading further.

“That was a difficult fight for the crews,” said Fire Chief Gary Monahan.

Fire crews from Bracebridge and Muskoka Lakes arrived and were on standby during the situation.

The fire was brought under control several hours later, around 10 a.m., but firefighters remained to perform overhaul operations - checking for and extinguishing any hot spots.

No injuries were reported.

Damage to the popular steakhouse is estimated between $3.5 million and $5 million. The cause of the fire has yet to be determined. Officials say an investigation will be conducted.

“We’re assessing with the insurance company what will happen next,” said the resort’s general manager, Andrew Buwalda. “Safe to say we’re all gutted by the loss of the building.”

The fire also devastated the Highlands golf course Pro-Shop.

The Antler Steakhouse was one of the resort’s signature dining locations and a popular stop for locals and visitors to the area. The historic building was once a pig farm and several different eateries over recent years.