The Auburn Cafe, a local fixture in Ecorse known for its Greek-style cuisine, suffered a devastating fire last Friday evening. The beloved restaurant, which has operated for over four decades, experienced a blaze that ravaged the interior and caused significant damage. Fox 2 Detroit reports that despite the destruction, the eatery's proprietor, Kosta Callis, is resolute about rebuilding the establishment that has been a part of the community for 44 years.
In a declaration of determination, despite the calamity, "Fire's not going to stop us," Callis told WXYZ in an interview. Callis recounted his mother's reaction to the fire's aftermath, saying, "We lost my father about seven years ago and she came and saw this place.. it was like seeing him go again." The fire, which appeared to begin near the exhaust fans, was noticed by Callis and other patrons while nearly 100 customers were inside the establishment, fortunately, they all escaped unharmed.
Witnesses in the vicinity captured videos of flames erupting from Auburn Cafe's roof, which circulated on social media. According to Detroit Free Press coverage, heavy smoke and flames were observed coming from the kitchen hood vent. Fire crews from Ecorse and neighboring communities fought the fire for several hours, and the Ecorse Fire Chief, Daniel Wright, confirmed that the efforts were successful with no injuries reported among the firefighters.
Response from the community has been one of support and sadness. Locals have expressed their desire for the restaurant's return, and a GoFundMe campaign was swiftly initiated to aid in the rebuilding efforts. "How can we not rebuild when you have such a strong community and strong support base, how can we not rebuild and satisfy them," Callis posed in a hopeful rhetoric to WXYZ. This sentiment echoes the spirit seen in the many comments on Downriver and Friends, a local Facebook group, where residents shared their fond memories and wishes for a quick restoration.
