The Firehouse Restaurant

About the Business

Specialties

Originally opened as a restaurant and private event space in 1960 The Firehouse has been in continuous operation for nearly 65 years. Housed in a historic and expansive landmark building in Old Sacramento, we continue the decades long tradition of fine food and beverages with exemplary, award-winning service.

History

Established in 1960.

In 1850, Sacramento organized California's first fire department. After two major fires resulted in extensive damage to the area, a new brick firehouse was built in 1853 to house the fire chief and volunteer crew of Engine Company No. 3. A succession of owners and tenants were custodians of the building until its purchase by Newton Cope in 1959. By that time, the once bustling waterfront area had deteriorated into a slum, which was scheduled for demolition to make way for construction of Interstate 5 along the river. Concerned citizens heavily lobbied the State Department of Transportation and the freeway route was moved 1 1/2 blocks east to its present location, creating the National Historic District of Old Sacramento. Mr. Cope undertook a major facelift on the firehouse building, converting it into a small bar and restaurant reminiscent of the Gold Rush Era. In 1999, the Cope family sold the restaurant to the Harvego family, residents of Sacramento for several years.

Meet the Business Owner

Business owner information

Terry H.

Business Owner

The Harvego family purchased The Firehouse restaurant in 1999 and in addition to their dedication to the restaurant, they operate in real estate and run the Harvego Family Foundation - a non-profit corporation which contributes to numerous programs for children and the arts in Sacramento. These include Sacramento Theatre Company, First Tee, Friends for Kids, Crocker Art Museum, Sacramento Ballet, The Boys and Girls Club, and Saint John's Program for Real Change.