Historic Restaurant Among Businesses Damaged In Massive CT Fire

THOMASTON, CT — Several businesses in Thomaston were damaged when a massive overnight fire tore through a Main Street building, according to news reports.

Among those was Patti's Place, a restaurant housed in a 100-year-old building where the blaze started.

Fire Chief Glenn Clark called the diner "a staple to to this town, so without that it’s going to put a hurt on the town," WTNH News-8 reported.

Other businesses were affected in the fire, which broke out around 10 p.m. Tuesday, including Mom's Place, a handmade crafts shop, and American Nails and Spa, according to WTNH News-8.

Mom's Place will temporarily close due to the fire, the business wrote in a Facebook post.

"It is with profound regret that Moms Place announces a temporary closure in response to the devastating fires that swept through Patties and Nail Salon tonight, allowing us to determine our next course of action thoughtfully," according to Mom's Place Facebook post. "The valiant efforts of fire departments from far and wide have provided a beacon of hope in combating the flames, despite the significant challenge of potential re-ignition. May the resilient spirit of hope and unity uplift all those affected, and let us extend our deepest gratitude to the brave men and women who courageously battle the blaze, exemplifying unwavering dedication and selflessness."

The area of Main Street at Park Street is expected to be closed for most of the day. Police said to avoid the downtown area. Crews worked for hours in the extreme cold to extinguish the blaze, WFSB 3-TV reported.

Derek Savoy, a longtime customer of the restaurant, has started a GoFundMe for Patti's Place.

"This morning, Patti’s Place burned to the ground," Savoy wrote. "The loss is heartbreaking for everyone who loved this little landmark."

Savoy said that his days start early, around 4 a.m., and that "Patti’s Place was always there for me and my four German Shepherds..."

Savoy wrote, "Patti and her partner never hesitated to help, even if I forgot my wallet. They’d say, 'Oh Derek, just get us next time!' Sometimes I paid a little, sometimes a lot—because it was never just about the money for them. It was about community, kindness, and taking care of each other."

>>>View the GoFundMe by clicking here.

The Thomaston Volunteer Ambulance Corps ·wrote on Facebook, "Our community is hurting today.

"Late last night into the early morning hours, a devastating fire destroyed several beloved local businesses, including Patti’s Place, Mom’s Place, US Graphics, American Nails, and Chatham Beach. The loss of these businesses is heartbreaking and deeply felt throughout our entire Thomaston community.

"We are holding Patti and Mike Kelley and everyone impacted by this tragedy close in our thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time.

"We want to extend our deepest gratitude to our mutual aid fire departments and to the dedicated EMS professionalswho worked tirelessly through the night under extremely difficult conditions. Your commitment, professionalism, and selflessness do not go unnoticed.

"In the days ahead, as information becomes available on how the public can help, including fundraising and other support efforts, we will share those details. We encourage our community to continue coming together, supporting one another, and showing the strength and compassion Thomaston is known for," the Thomaston Volunteer Ambulance Corps wrote.

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Patti's Place serves classic American diner fare. The restaurant's Facebook page highlights specials like pasta fagioli, baked meatloaf, and egg salad. Savoy said he always ordered two bacon, egg, and cheese sandwiches — "one for me and one for my four-legged kiddos."

Popey's Cafe in Morris also mourned the loss on social media: "From one restaurant family to another, our hearts are with Patti's Place of Thomaston. Wishing you strength and courage as you recover from this major loss."