https://digital-release.wavy.com/

Surf Rider restaurant in Poquoson rises from ashes with new reopening date

POQUOSON, Va. (WAVY) — Nearly two months after a fire tore through the Surf Rider restaurant in Poquoson, there are signs of progress. 

The foundation is going in at the spot on Rens Road that was burned down to nearly nothing on June 2. The early morning two-alarm fire damaged the space.


Crews from Hampton Fire, York County Life and Safety, Newport News Marine Vessel and Langley were all called to assist in the fire.

Two months later and a different kind of crew is on the property, working to rebuild as quickly as possible. 

Betty Schechter lives behind the restaurant is also the property manage for White House Cove. She says the morning of the fire, she was walking her dog and could see all of the lights and sirens. 

“I got on my golf cart and came around and I was just floored to see it because there was just nothing left but a few walls.”

She says it’s been a quiet summer without the restaurant, and she is thrilled with the quick progress. 

“We have friends that drive down here from Chesterfield just to come to the restaurant,” Schechter said “People love it. They knew the right people to call to get the work down quickly.”

Originally, the grand reopening was set for Thanksgiving, but it’s now set for early 2020. 

“I am excited to see what the new one will look like and get people back in here.”

10 On Your Side reached out to the owner of the restaurant several times, and we are waiting to hear back.