Casper and Runyon's Nook destroyed by fire

The Nook is toast!

Nooooo!!! Casper and Runyon's Nook in St. Paul was destroyed in a fire early this morning, the Star Tribune reports. Fortunately, no one was in the building, but the longtime favorite burger bar--and home of the classic Jucy Nookie--is "totaled" according to co-owner Ted Casper. No cause has been determined, though the heaviest damage appears to be concentrated in the kitchen. Presumably the pool table and the arcade games can be replaced, but the worn wooden bar and vintage sports memorabilia are another story.

Casper and co-owner Mike Runyon also own the adjacent Ran-Ham Bowling center and Shamrock's on West Seventh. Casper estimated that it will be a few months before the restaurant can reopen. In the meantime, we'll have to make due with Jucy Nookies from Shamrock's or Jucy Lucys from Matt's, the 5-8, or the Blue Door, among others...