WESTOVER, W.Va. — Flames have significantly damaged an iconic Italian restaurant in Monongalia County.
No injuries were reported in the Saturday morning blaze at Colasante’s Ristorante and Pub in Westover.
But, there was significant damage to the building. The property included the long-time restaurant, apartments, and office space.
Firefighters from Westover, Star City and Granville responded to try to save the business which has operated in the same location for more than 40 years. Fire crews had the blaze under control by 6:30 a.m. although eye witnesses say the building appeared to be a total loss due to damage to the roof and upper portions of the building.
Westover Police Lt. Roy Harper said his officers were called to the scene to assist with traffic control.
The building housed the restaurant downstairs while upstairs consisted of a bar, four apartments and an office for the family business. Westover police contacted the state fire marshal to investigate, a typical call although the cause of the fire is not believed to be suspicious. Initial reports indicated the fire may have been started in the electrical system.
Colasante’s is a long time Westover landmark, Voted one of the “101 Unique Places to Dine” in West Virginia by the West Virginia Department of Commerce.