Rachel’s Kitchen in Woodbury, CT, is a small local business serving up delicious “breakfast, lunch, and lobster” to locals and visitors alike. As with most small businesses, a small setback causes problems, and a major equipment failure can be catastrophic.

Recently, Rachel’s Kitchen was officially certified as the inspiration for Luke’s Diner in the iconic show The Gilmore Girls. What a boon to this wonderful eatery! But all is not well.

The walk-in cooler just failed, and exhaust fan in the kitchen is completely kaput. Both need to be replaced. At a time when this small business should be joyously taking advantage of the great publicity and introducing itself to new customers, Rachel has had to close her doors.

Replacing an exhaust fan is extremely expensive , but it is absolutely necessary for this restaurant to open again. And obviously, no restaurant can function without a commercial cooler. In addition to the replacement costs, there was a lot of spoiled food, and a restaurant that isn’t open isn’t making any money. It is my hope that this GoFundMe campaign can help her get the new equipment purchased and installed as soon as possible. Rachel was hesitant to let me set this up, but I am confident that her loyal customers, almost 3,000 Facebook followers, and people who believe in the importance of small businesses, will step up and show her how important this lovely local spot is to all of us. Any amount helps; let’s get Rachel’s Kitchen back up and running!