Beloved Cecil County restaurant, UnWined on the Water, destroyed by fire
A beloved seafood restaurant in Cecil County, Maryland, was destroyed after catching fire early Thursday morning, according to the State Fire Marshall's Office.
Firefighters responded around 1:40 a.m. to UnWined on the Water, a restaurant in Elkton. The building was engulfed in flames when crews arrived.
Dozens of firefighters from the Singerly Fire Company and surrounding fire departments spent more than two hours getting the fire under control. High winds caused the fire to spread quickly, leading the roof and interior floors to collapse, officials said.
Investigators said there was more than $1 million in damage, and the restaurant was deemed a total loss.
According to officials, the fire started near the back of the restaurant around 1:10 a.m., when no one was on the property. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
History of UnWined on the Water
John Bragg opened UnWined on the Water in March 2020, according to an article in the Chesapeake Bay Magazine. This was the second location, after the first, in North East, was damaged by a fire two years earlier.
The Elkton location opened its doors to customers on the same day that then-Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan closed state restaurants because of COVID-19, the article states.
The article continues to say that UnWined on the Water survived with take-out orders until it officially opened later that year.
The restaurant also became a popular dining spot because of its scenic views.
Bragg is quoted as saying, "UnWined on the Water is surrounded on three sides by water, and from any table, you get beautiful views."
Support for UnWined on the Water
Neighbors in the community showed their support for UnWined on the Water with posts on their Facebook page.
"If anyone can bounce back from this, it's you all," one person said.
The restaurant was also known for its live music.
"We absolutely love playing this venue; the owners, staff, and patrons are always top-notch and welcoming," another person said.
Many of the commenters said they hope the owners can rebuild the restaurant.
"This is devastating, and I'm definitely looking forward to the day you reopen your doors," a commenter said.