Community rallies to help Kenilworth restaurant damaged by fire
No injuries were reported, according to the Kenilworth Fire Department and Rescue Squad. However, the fire destroyed much of Crabbae's interior.
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A Kenilworth restaurant was heavily damaged by a fire earlier this week, leaving its owner facing extensive repairs.
No injuries were reported, according to the Kenilworth Fire Department and Rescue Squad. But the fire destroyed much of Crabbae restaurant's interior.
“Some of it will get covered,” Crabbae owner Kashif Jones said, “I’m still a couple hundred thousand [dollars] short.”
The restaurant owner set up a GoFundMe to help offset repair costs. Within two days, it raised more than $15,000.
“People didn’t have to give me anything,” he said. “They don’t owe me anything. I’m very appreciative.”
Jones told News 12 there is a hole in the roof, extensive water damage throughout the building, destroyed electrical systems, and broken windows. However, he was relieved that all his employees escaped the flames safely.
“Nobody got hurt,” he said. “It was seconds away."
Jones started Crabbae in 2019, cooking out of his home before expanding to a takeout location in Maplewood and a dine‑in restaurant in Kenilworth.
“I love bringing people together and eating,” he said. “I love creating dishes.”
Jones said giving back has always been part of his mission, which makes the support he’s received during this setback especially meaningful.
"I do a lot for the community, but I do it from the heart," he said. "So, I guess it pays off."
Despite the damage and uncertainty ahead, Jones told News 12 he remains focused on moving forward.
"It’s beyond donations,” Jones said. “Everybody’s good ... now we just have to figure it out. And I believe I will.”
