Tinian’s Beach Cafe percolating comeback after twin super typhoons

Three months after Super Typhoon Sinlaku and just weeks after Super Typhoon Bavi battered Tinian, Beach Cafe is steadily rebuilding from an estimated $60,000 to $80,000 in combined storm damage, buoyed by loyal customers who continue to return despite the island's ongoing recovery and even delivering coffee directly to motorists waiting in line at Tinian's lone gas station.

Nick Denzer, co-owner of Beach Cafe, said business has yet to return to pre-typhoon levels as fuel shortages continue to affect customer traffic.

"Our loyal customers, they keep showing up the best they can," Denzer said, noting that the arrival of military personnel on island has also helped sustain business.

Co-owner/manager Gerlie Mendiola Denzer said many residents remain focused on rebuilding their lives while fuel availability continues to influence spending and travel.

Following Sinlaku, Beach Cafe reopened using a generator, attracting first responders, military personnel, and American Red Cross workers. Business slowed considerably after Bavi because many residents were conserving fuel amid gasoline shortages, according to Denzer.

Denzer said Sinlaku inflicted the bulk of the damage, tearing portions of the roof, flooding the cafe, and knocking out power long enough for aquarium fish to die after filtration systems stopped working. Bavi caused comparatively lighter damage because staff had more time to prepare and secure the property.

"Probably, including because we have the apartments here, probably... $60,000 to $80,000 worth of damage, both together," Denzer said, estimating that Bavi accounted for only about $10,000 of the total because "we prepared and we took precautions."

The business is currently operating at a little more than half of its normal activity, with insurance proceeds helping fund repairs. Assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency has also helped, while a Small Business Administration application remains pending.

To encourage repeat customers, Beach Cafe continues to offer its loyalty stamp card, giving customers a free drink after 10 purchases.

During the height of Tinian's fuel shortage, staff also found an unusual way to serve customers.

"When the customers were waiting in the gas line, we walked up and down and delivered. The gas line was going right by the store, so we deliver coffee to the cars sometimes," Denzer said.

Supply chain disruptions remain another challenge, Mendiola Denzer said, with many products shipped from off-island arriving later than usual after the storms.

Despite the setbacks, both owners said they remain optimistic. The cafe currently serves beverages while renovations continue on its kitchen, with plans to resume serving food once the work is completed.

"This island has been really welcoming for us... We appreciate all these people. They all support each other and they support us too," Mendiola Denzer said.