Terrapin Crossroad, the former concert venue and restaurant founded by late Grateful Dead bassist Phil Lesh, was damaged early Sunday morning, March 9, 2025. According to an initial report in the San Francisco Chronicle, the vacant building caught fire just after 4 a.m., resulting in significant structural damage. 

A San Rafael Fire Department representative reported that crews arrived at the location to find flames coursing the structure’s south side and actively spreading toward the building’s interior. The blaze was contained within 15 minutes, and did not fully engulf the venue’s kitchen due to the intact sprinkler system. 

Investigators described a strong scent of gasoline at the scene. They also found an empty jerrycan near the location, leading examiners to believe the fire was intentional. 

In the fire’s aftermath, damage was reported to the structure’s south wall and part of the kitchen. The venue’s interior also endured water and smoke damage. 

After nearly a decade in business, Phil Lesh and his wife Jill announced Terrapin Crossroads’ end in November 2021. During its heyday, the venue was known as a highly regarded meeting spot for fans of the Grateful Dead and their one and only bassist. 

Lesh passed away on October 25, 2024. Before his passing, the original member of the Dead was known to participate in improvised performances, billed jams and other live music opportunities that flexed his creative capabilities. 

After Phil’s passing, his son Grahame Lesh has stepped up as the family’s musical torchbearer. Yesterday, he announced the continuation of the Terrapin Roadshow, on May 31 and June 1 to the Mount Rio Amphitheater in Mount Rio, Calif. The occasion will include Grahame, Sam Grisman, Dan “Lebo” Lebowitz, Amy Helm, Jason Crosby, Ezra Lipp and special guests.

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