Kuku’s could remain closed for another month, after an SUV ran into the restaurant on Dec. 4.
It’s believed the SUV’s driver, who suffered minor injuries, struck the restaurant after a medical incident.
Owner Randy Mahadar said work repairing the damaged front area has been complicated by the presence of asbestos and other issues in the older building on Burnside Road West that houses Kuku’s.
Mahadar was hopeful the necessary permits will be in place next week and he is optimistic Kuku’s can reopen in mid-January. Jan. 23 is the 11th anniversary of the restaurant’s start.
The timing of the closure is hard, Mahadar said.
“It’s disappointing at Christmastime, I had so much catering. I had so many events.”
Mahadar said his six employees plan to wait out the closure. A few have other jobs, as well, but this is a tough time, he said.
Despite his problems, Mahadar has ensured food is delivered Wednesday and Sunday to people in need in the downtown area, something he has been doing for six years. With Kuku’s out of service, he has been gathering food from other sources.
Wednesday’s delivery featured lasagna provided by a church, and plans are still in the works for Sunday’s meal.
“It’s always hot food,” Mahadar said. “Something hot and then hot chocolate.
“Right now we’re just doing whatever we can pull off. It’s a day-by-day thing.”
Mahadar said he’s gratified by community support since the accident.
On Friday, he said someone left an unsigned Christmas card at the restaurant door containing $50 and a $100 gift certificate to the Bay.
“I was wondering: ‘What the heck?’ ”
Many others have offered their good wishes, he said.
“Everyone’s calling to make sure I’m OK.”
