Fire Disaster Fund San Benito House

Chris Cheeseman is organizing this fundraiser on behalf of Chris Cheeseman.

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The San Benito House has been a beloved institution in downtown Half Moon Bay for over 115 years. Its comprised of our famous Garden Deli, newly added Cantina, and Historic Inn which opened in 1905. Welcoming tourist and locals has always been our pleasure. To see the outdoor patio bustling in recent months has been a blessing after enduring multiple lock downs.

Unfortunately, all that changed In the early morning hours of April 10th. A fire erupted upstairs in the hotel. Our in house employees and Inn keeper acted swiftly, and bravely, to evacuate the guests who were staying with us. The flames and smoke spread so rapidly they had to leave with the clothing they had on, scrambling to get down the stairs. Emergency rescue was required for one couple.

Those who were residing with us have been displaced, and lost most of their belongings. A few sustained minor injuries, and we are so grateful, they are all ok. Unfortunately, we were unable to retrieve our beloved House cat, Hemingway, and lost him to the fire. He will be missed greatly.

We want to thank Cal Fire, the San Mateo County Sheriff's, and Coastside Fire for responding so quickly. Miraculously, they were able to swiftly extinguish the flames and contain it to the upper floor. The fire and smoke damage unfortunately has destroyed the entire hotel. However, the restaurant and deli remain mostly intact.

After seeing the light at the end of the tunnel, once more have been dealt a devastating hit. We will FIGHT HARD to rebuild the Historic Inn and reopen the Cantina, and Garden Deli, safely and as soon as possible. In the meantime we are planning to operate the Garden Deli to a temporary location at 225 Cabrillo Hwy South Unit 106C very soon. Please follow us on Facebook and Instagram for updates.

These funds will help the relocation of our live in staff members, support our employees during the closure, and help us restore the damage. Thank you in advance for all your kindness.

In Loving Memory
Hemingway
R.I.P.