Hurricane Milton’s devastating landfall along Florida’s Gulf Coast hit one of the most popular areas for temporary residents who spend the winter months living in the Sunshine State.

Westshore Marina District restaurant Vela has permanently closed. The restaurant, an Italian concept from the folks behind Cru Cellars, Bouzy and Small Giant, first opened as an offshoot of Cru Cellars in May 2021,

As employees were closing the restaurant after their first day back a fire broke out, the Cape Coral Fire Department said. While everyone was able to get out safely, the restaurant was destroyed