Green Zebra’s St. Armands location reopens after Hurricane Helene damage

two picnic tables in front of store front
Photo via Google Street.

Green Zebra’s St. Armands location at 476 John Ringling Blvd has finally reopened after Hurricane Helene caused serious damage to the business and building. While the café has been taking carry-out orders, the business has been recovering from approximately $85,000 in damages. This includes replacing equipment like juicers, packagers, refrigerators, furniture, decorations, as well as repairing walls and infrastructure.

“It’s still adding every day,” says owner Elena Lanakiev. “Need this replaced, that replaced.” Though the recovery effort came with a hefty price tag, Lanakiev found a silver lining.

empty dining room pictured on the left. Same dining room pictured on the right as the wall are reconstructed.
New table service option is available (pictured left). Walls before reconstruction (pictured right). Photo via Elena Lanakiev.

A silver lining

Since reconstruction, Green Zebra now offers table service, which was previously just counter service. Lanakiev also built a wooden platform to accommodate outdoor seating, which will be available next month. “Decorations,” she says, “are still in progress.” Lanakiev adds, “I’m really happy we are reopened, really happy for us, the employees, and customers.”

After Hurricanes Helene and Milton, St. Armands faced a crisis. Storm surge ravaged many businesses, the park was shredded, and numerous establishments continue struggling to recuperate. The successful reopening of businesses like Green Zebra testifies to St. Armands’ resilience.

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