Downtown Vancouver's Joe Fortes is a longstanding popular spot for seafood, steaks, cocktails at their u-shaped bar, and summertime rooftop patio hangs.
Right now, however, the veteran Vancouver restaurant is also doing what it can to support its "sister" spot in Maui.
Fleetwood's on Front Street - known most prominently as Fleetwood Mac drummer Mick Fleetwood's restaurant - was gutted by the recent fires that devastated Maui.
"Maui and the Lahaina community have been my home for several decades," shared the famous drummer on his Instagram account last week. "This is a devastating moment for Maui and many are suffering unimaginable loss."
"Fleetwood's on Front Street has been lost and while we are heartbroken our main priority is the safety of our dear staff and team members."
"On behalf of myself and my family, I share my heartfelt thoughts and prayers for the people of Maui. We are committed to supporting the community and those affected by this disaster in the days, months, and years to come," Fleetwood added. The rock icon has returned to Maui and has been a hands-on presence helping the community in the aftermath of the devastating fires.
Fleetwood's on Front a sibling to Vancouver's Joe Fortes
Located in the heart of historic Lahaina, Fleetwood's has been a cherished spot for locals and visitors for years. It also happens to be owned and operated by the same restaurant group that runs Joe Fortes, The CFW Group.
"Our sister restaurant Fleetwood’s on Front Street was recently devastated, along with the entire Lahaina community, by the wildfires on Maui island," reads a recent Instagram post from Joe Fortes.
"Most importantly, we are happy to report that our Hawaiian colleagues are all accounted for and safe. While this is cause for great celebration, tragically many of the 130 team members of Fleetwood’s have lost their homes, and all of their possessions," continues the Vancouver restaurant.
"To support the team members that make Fleetwood’s so special, a GoFundMe has been created, with 100% of proceeds going to their hardworking and dedicated team. We would be so grateful for any contribution that you may be able to make to this fund."
So far, the campaign has brought in nearly $40,000 USD of its $250,000 fundraising goal.
'Your support means the world'
Ashley Leal, the General Manager of Fleetwood's on Front, writes in the campaign description: "Our goal through the years has been to make our guests feel at home in our restaurant; making memories was our specialty."
Leal continues, offering insight into what she says makes their staff - their 'ohana - so special.
"Our 'Ohana were the ones that made that happen. Their happiness and hospitality impacted how so many felt in our restaurant through the years. And it is them that really need help now. We sincerely appreciate any contribution that you can make to this fund. Your support means the world. To all of us."
In addition to Fleetwood's on Front in Maui and Joe Fortes in Vancouver, The CFW Group operates Joe Fortes in Whistler, The Grill on the Alley in Beverly Hills, Ki in Toronto, and The Shore Club in Ottawa and Toronto.
