LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WLFI) - After weeks of hard work and repairs, Bistro 501 is finally ready to hit the grill again on July 5th.
Mary and Theresa Buckley, were hit with the news that their restaurant was destroyed by harsh rain and flooding in May.
"Just sheets of rain and probably about three or four inches of water on the floor. It looked like the Mississippi River," stated Mary. "I was devastated. This is my daughter's dreams."
Almost $10,000 dollars worth of food had to be thrown away after the event.
"We had figured to the penny how much food and time we had lost because of the water," said Theresa.
"We kind of stood there for a minute in complete silence and awe. What do we do?" added Mary.
After a night of shock, both owners were surprised with the generosity the community brought in.
“Everybody who asked what they could do to help, we just asked for them to buy a gift card and give it to somebody who hasn't come in before,” said Theresa.
The two expect a significant turnout of around 250 people for their grand reopening.
"We're hopeful that the new start and opening is going to refresh interest in the restaurant and get people excited and remember that we're here for them," Theresa added.
Guests can expect live music throughout the day and a brand new summer menu. Mary Buckley says that even after what all has happened there is always a silver lining.
"I think it brought to light, not just to us, but also to the community, to support your locals. It’s still a special place, and it always will be," stated Mary.
