Local Comfort Food Spot in Contra Costa Devastated by Fire

In the early hours of Tuesday morning a fierce fire erupted at Brother Sister by Vic’s, the cozy family restaurant tucked on Pacheco Boulevard in Martinez. By sunrise, flames had twisted through the kitchen and dining area, leaving the building gutted and the future of the spot uncertain.

Owners Rosie and JB Morello were the first to confirm that, miraculously, everyone—staff, patrons, and their own family—escaped unharmed. “We’re grateful everyone is safe,” they wrote on Facebook, a post that quickly gathered dozens of supportive comments.

It wasn’t just the blaze that did the damage. Neighbors who spotted the smoke called the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District right away, a fast response that, according to the Morellos, probably kept the fire from spreading even further. “The quick, professional, and empathetic work of Contra Costa Fire saved what little was left,” the couple said, offering a heartfelt nod to the crews who battled the blaze all night.

Water, though essential, added its own woes. “Although there was already significant damage caused by the fire, the water and additional mitigation added to the destruction,” Rosie posted, describing the soggy aftermath that now covers the once‑bustling kitchen.

In the hours after the fire, phones rang nonstop. Customers and friends sent texts, made calls, and even stopped by the charred lot to drop off snacks and a few words of encouragement. “As you can imagine, we will be closed indefinitely,” the owners added, acknowledging the harsh reality while leaning on the outpouring of community love.

Longtime patrons poured their hearts out, recalling birthdays, anniversaries, and simple family dinners that had taken place under the restaurant’s low‑ceiling lights. One regular wrote, “Rosie & JB, my heart goes out to you. While the fire may have damaged the building, it can never take away the countless wonderful memories made at Vic’s/Brothers Sisters.”

There’s still no word on when—or even if—the doors will swing open again. For now, the Morellos and their staff are focusing on cleaning up, assessing the damage, and figuring out the next steps. The community, meanwhile, promises to stand by them, as it has for years.

Until a timeline emerges, the bakery’s famous biscuits sit cooling in hearts across Contra Costa, waiting for a day when the smell of fresh coffee can drift out of the rebuilt doorway once more.