Tavern 14, at 6309 Market St. in Wilmington, reopened last week following extensive repairs.

Owner Christyne Nagaishi said last month that the building sustained significant water and mold damage as a result of Hurricane Florence.

In addition to the damage, Nagaishi estimated a loss of more than $12,000 in food and spirits. She was unsure whether the business would survive.

Then, in mid-October, she was informed that Bassam Safi, owner of the Wilmington branch of Our Town America, a national marketing company that targets new residents, had launched a Facebook fundraiser to help a local business get back on its feet following the storm. Nagaishi was recipient of his efforts and received a check for $1,500.

“Aside from the money, the donation provided me with a glimmer of hope,” Nagaishi said. “At that point we didn’t know which way to go. We were struggling to get answers from government agencies and insurance companies. This generous gift lifted us up and gave us the kickstart we needed.”

Tavern 14 now has a new roof and new floors and ceilings throughout. Nagaishi credits family and friends with helping to get the restaurant back open last week.

“It’s been so good to see everyone,” Nagaishi said. “We really wanted to reopen by Thanksgiving so we could give back.”

Nagaishi will offer a free Thanksgiving buffet with all the traditional fixings beginning at 4 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day.

“Because of the economic toll the storm has taken on so many in our region, many people may not be doing what they normally do,” Nagaishi said. “We want them to know they can come here and enjoy themselves and maybe we can provide that glimmer of hope for someone else that is struggling.”

Tavern 14 is open from noon to 2 a.m. daily, with a full menu served until closing.

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