A fire broke out early Tuesday morning at The Shanty, a long-standing seafood restaurant on the north end of Cocoa Beach, causing significant damage to the building but no injuries. The blaze, which firefighters contained within 45 minutes, destroyed the restaurant’s kitchen and dining area, leaving the popular spot temporarily closed. Owner Maria Lopez said the fire was 'devastating' but praised the immediate response from first responders. 'They saved our building from total ruin,' she told Florida Today. The Shanty, a fixture in the area for over 30 years, had recently expanded its outdoor seating to accommodate growing tourist numbers. Local businesses and residents have since mobilized to support the restaurant. A GoFundMe page launched by the community has already raised over $25,000, while nearby shops are offering discounts to customers who visit The Shanty. 'This place isn’t just a restaurant—it’s part of our neighborhood,' said Cocoa Beach resident David Carter, who donated $500 to the fundraiser. Lopez said the restaurant plans to reopen in six weeks, pending repairs. Meanwhile, volunteers are helping clean the site, and a local contractor has offered free labor for reconstruction. The fire has also drawn attention from state officials, with Brevard County Commissioner Karen Smith visiting the site Thursday to discuss potential grants for small businesses affected by disasters. 'This community doesn’t back down,' Smith said. 'We’ll see The Shanty back on the menu before summer.'