Fire destroys landmark restaurant in the Pontiac

A community is reeling after a local landmark along the Ottawa River went up in flames Friday night.

The restaurant and bar for Esprit Rafting and Adventures was completely destroyed by the blaze – a huge loss for the Pontiac.

Witnesses said the fire started around 6p.m. Friday night. Volunteer firefighters arrived shortly after and had it under control by midnight.

Esprit’s owner, Jim Coffey, said he was canoeing when he noticed smoke coming from the building. He said he feared for his family inside and rushed to the scene.

“I left my 5-year-old son with my mother upstairs in my office, which is the most isolated part of the building and came running back in to make sure they were of the building and safe. Once everyone was out and safe we stood back and our building burnt to the ground,” said Coffey.

The blaze was so powerful it melted pieces off a vehicle and cabin nearby.

All that was left standing Saturday afternoon was a filing cabinet, a few charred chairs and tables.

According to neighbours, the wood building was built between 70 and 80 years ago.

Coffey said he took over 25 years ago. He said the building had a patio, a wood fire oven, and was a fully operational as a bar and restaurant. It attracted locals and visitors from around the world.

Eto Corcion, who owns a cabin nearby, called it a real loss for the Pontiac.

“For the area, let’s face it, it brought people in and they would spend money in town so the economy it certainly would help with it, and so it is sad that way, but more so than anything I feel for Jim and his staff, “he said.

While the building is gone – Coffey said they are still open for business for rafting and adventure tours.

“We’ve taken a pretty big blow, but often when you’re knocked down your character is how you get back up and we’ve got a lot of character,” said Coffey.

Coffey also invited community members to come to Esprit Sunday at 7p.m. for a gathering to share memories from times spent at the restaurant. He said guests should bring their own food and drink and encouraged people to bring musical instruments to play.