A beloved East Bay restaurant was reduced to ashes just hours after serving crowds on Super Bowl Sunday, prompting an outpouring of support from the community.

A fire broke out at Slow Hand BBQ in Pleasant Hill late Sunday night, reportedly starting in the restaurant’s smoker before reigniting Monday morning. The blaze left the building a total loss, wiping out 13 years of dedication and passion.

Co-owner Maureen Bullota and her brother, who also operate a second location in Martinez, are now shifting all operations there as they determine their next steps. Bullota said their biggest concern is ensuring their employees remain taken care of during the transition.

“These people are the heart and soul of what we do,” Bullota said. “I just see their faces.”

Loyal customers are stepping up to support the restaurant, pledging to dine at the Martinez location until the Pleasant Hill site can be rebuilt.

“Their food is incredible — high quality and full of flavor,” said customer Yvette Brown. “We love the music and the atmosphere. We’re just devastated for them.”

Bullota does not yet know how long rebuilding will take, but she remains hopeful the Martinez restaurant will sustain the business in the meantime.

“Have faith in us,” she said. “Just keep coming and coming and coming.”