Fire at Michael’s on Main

Michael’s on Main, a rustic restaurant known for live music and Grateful Dead Sundays, is closed for the foreseeable future after a major fire Thursday.

The kitchen, fireside dining room and offices were badly damaged by the fire, reported at 4:28 a.m. Thursday, according to Central Fire, which responded.

However, a valuable collection of Grateful Dead art on the walls was saved by firefighters, according to owner Michael Harrison.

The cause is under investigation, according to Central Fire.

The restaurant, next to Soquel Creek, closed as usual at 10 p.m. Wednesday.

Central Fire reported automatic aid from Santa Cruz Fire, Watsonville Fire and Felton Fire.

On Sept. 16, Michael’s on Main was to host local musicians Mira Goto, Steve Seskin and Bonny June with Ken Craft in a benefit to raise money for a park named for slain Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Deputy Damon Gutzwiller.

“Michael’s on Main is a treasure for local live music. Hoping they’re OK and sending thanks to firefighters who are working to save it!” posted Barbara Graves.

michaelsonmain.info