Sticks & Stones restaurant was destroyed in an early-morning fire on Saturday, Nov. 29.

By Michael Mashburn From Daily Voice

A well-known New York restaurant was reduced to charred beams in a fast-moving fire on Thanksgiving weekend.

Essex County’s Sticks & Stones, located on Route 9 in Schroon Lake, went up in flames around 4 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 29, according to the Schroon Lake Chamber of Commerce.

Firefighters from across Essex and Warren counties responded as temperatures dipped into the low 20s and winds pushed the blaze through the building.

Photos shared by the Blue Ridge Motel on Facebook showed the restaurant fully engulfed as volunteer crews from Schroon Lake, North Hudson, Chilson, Ticonderoga, Horicon, Minerva, Chestertown, and Pottersville battled the fire into daybreak.

No injuries had been reported, and the cause of the fire was not immediately known.

‘A Devastating Loss’

The Chamber of Commerce acknowledged the fire in a Small Business Saturday post, calling it a painful start to a day normally dedicated to celebrating local businesses.

“We kick off this year’s Small Business Saturday on a somber note,” the chamber wrote. “Please keep one of our own, Sticks & Stones, in your thoughts after their devastating fire... Thank you to all the first responders from throughout the region who responded to the call. We are Schroon Lake Strong and we support our small businesses!”

The Blue Ridge Motel also shared its support online: “Our thoughts and prayers go out to [owners] Steve, Gary and the entire crew at Sticks and Stones. This is a devastating loss to them and to the entire region. Sticks and Stones Restaurant was/is loved by so many!”

A Local Favorite

Sticks & Stones, known for its wood-fired pizza, bistro menu, and indoor-outdoor dining, has been a popular stop for both locals and travelers passing through the Adirondacks.

News of the fire spread quickly on social media, where longtime patrons expressed shock and sadness.

“Heartbreaking,” one commenter wrote.

“Awful! One of our favorite places in Schroon,” said Katie Church.

“Such a devastating loss. I pray for all and that they can rebuild from this,” another said.

Daily Voice has reached out to co-owner Stephen Holmes for comment.