Restaurants Offer a Place for Residents to Gather After Storm

As fifty percent of Windsor is still in the dark, folks are trying to assemble some sort of normalcy in their lives. For some, especially older folks, this means getting out to see people and drink a hot cup of coffee or have a small, warm meal. 

With no electricity in most of Windsor's restaurants this week, the word got around quickly that Dom's Eatery had power and ever since the power outage, they have been offering Windsor residents a little something to keep them warm. That is, of course, if you don't mind eating in the dark.

Dom's, which actually caters for CL&P workers, has been cooking on their grill since the power went down on Saturday night.

"We've been cooking with gas," said owners Dom Dibella and his brother Jason.  "We only got a generator today," added Dom on Thursday. Of course, business has been great. 

Despite the lack of light, Dom has been impressed with his clilentele. "The thank you's and the gratitude - that's what has made it all worth it," said Dibella.  He also said that all his employees volunteered to come in and cook (and of course be paid), and lend a hand to customers coming in.

As folks walk in to the dark restaurant, they are understandably confused as to where to order, but they are quickly greeted by Jason or his brother. Orders are taken by the grill and delivered on paper plates, but it's hot and it's fresh and given with a smile.

"Geisslers came over and gave us bread on Saturday," said Dibella.  "True Value said to come over and get anything we need like extension cords, etc."

Customers are grateful. "This is the third time I have eaten here since the power went out," said Karen Averill. Mary Whipple and her mom Marion Kharman were enjoying a meal too.