Huge fire tears through historic building housing one of the only cafes on Toronto Islands

One of the few restaurants that people can stop at for a bite and a drink on the Toronto Islands will sadly no longer be opening for the summer 2024 season after a weekend fire ravaged the establishment.

The Island Cafe, which sits right near the Ward’s Island ferry dock, is a bustling spot during the warmer months, serving up sustenance, libations, and live entertainment at one of the city’s top attractions.

But it, along with the Ward’s Island Association Clubhouse in the same building, was completely destroyed by an inferno early Sunday morning that residents could see all the way across the lake.

There is a massive blaze on Centre Island

byu/bmont12 intoronto

Toronto Fire crews responded to what they called “a fully involved structure fire” in the wee hours of yesterday that, though it resulted in no injuries, reduced the nearly 90-year-old building to ash.

Built in 1937, the clubhouse was a long-running gathering space and an iconic staple of the island community. People have been taking to social media to mourn the loss of it and the cafe, with some also wondering how the blaze broke out in the first place.

Residents have been taking to social media to express sorrow about the blaze and share their memories at the cafe and clubhouse. Screengrabs from the Island Cafe’s Instagram stories.

Along with sharing their condolences on Instagram, Facebook and X, locals have also been writing heartfelt Google reviews full of their personal photographs and warm memories of the now-lost space.

My heart breaks 4 neighbours & friends of Toronto Island community. Last night a devastating fire took down WIA & the Island Cafe. They are a strong community & will rebuild but still, a landmark is gone.Sad face#torontoisland#wardsisland

— Lorraine Segato (@LorraineSegato) March 18, 2024

Patrons called the cafe “a magical place” with great service, food, and atmosphere, saying “there is nothing else like it” in the city.

“We are mourning the loss of the Island Cafe, such a unique and wonderful contributor to the spirit of the island… sending owners and staff love and gratitude,” one person wrote Sunday.

“My heart broke today at the news. I LOVE Island Cafe and the positive vibes they radiate,” another added.

And still another: “Toronto has lost a truly special place.”

New Google reviews have popped up in the wake of the incident, honouring the cafe, staff and owners. Screengrab from Google.

Many are not just hoping that both the cafe and clubhouse will be able to start over and rebuild, but are confident that they will after the tragic incident.

As Ward’s Island Association President Alison Gzowski told CTV News reporters who were on the scene Sunday, “We’ll still find a way.”