Owners of Wally's in Surft City announced the Saturday night fire in a Facebook post Sunday, May 31, saying no employees, customers, or neighboring residents were injured.
"So last night didn't go as anyone planned," the restaurant wrote. The fire started after staff finished what the restaurant described as "a wonderful Saturday night shift.
"We are so incredibly happy to be able to share that no one from Wally's or any of our sweet neighbors, were hurt."
Owners said they do not yet know what caused the fire, how extensive the damage is, or when the restaurant will reopen.
The restaurant, located at 712 Long Beach Blvd., has been a fixture on Long Beach Island for more than 50 years. Known for serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, Wally's has remained a popular gathering place for generations of shore visitors and local families.
A GoFundMe launched following the fire is aimed at helping employees who rely on the busy summer season to support themselves throughout the year. More than $41,000 had been raised in less than 24 hours.
Organizers said the next 12 to 14 weeks typically provide income that workers use to pay bills, support families, reduce debt, and prepare for the slower offseason months.
The fundraising campaign also highlighted the actions of employees during the emergency.
"Last night, two young staff members ran back into a burning building to make sure their manager was okay. That is who these people are. That is Wally's."
Owners said insurance will cover rebuilding the restaurant, but donations will go directly to staff members affected by the closure.
"The building can be repaired. We will rebuild. We will reopen."
"We'll be back. And when we are, it'll be because of this incredible community standing beside us."
Click here to follow Daily Voice and receive free news updates.
