Car ploughs into Dénia restaurant terrace… but owners respond with humour

A quiet morning in Dénia’s port turned into a dramatic scene after a car smashed into the terrace of a well-known waterfront restaurant, leaving extensive damage but, fortunately, no reported injuries.

The crash happened shortly before 6am on Monday on the road running alongside the harbour. For reasons that have not yet been confirmed, the driver lost control of the vehicle, which mounted the pavement before crashing through the outdoor terrace of Restaurante Haití.

Tables, chairs and part of the terrace were destroyed as the car came to a halt in the restaurant’s outdoor seating area. Nearby street furniture was also damaged by the impact.

Police investigate cause of crash

Emergency services attended the scene, while police began investigating what caused the vehicle to leave the road. Authorities have not yet released details about the circumstances leading up to the crash or confirmed whether anyone else was travelling with the driver.

Fortunately, no injuries have been reported, sparing what could have been a far more serious incident had the terrace been occupied at the time.

The unusual scene also attracted attention from people in the port, where the restaurant’s terrace would normally be a familiar spot for diners. As daylight revealed the aftermath, the vehicle could be seen surrounded by damaged furniture and debris.

Restaurant responds with humour

Despite being faced with the disruption and damage, the restaurant chose to see the lighter side of the bizarre incident.

In a social media post, the owners jokingly referred to the crash as “Paellauto”, playing on the idea of an unexpected drive-through paella service.

The post also reminded customers that the restaurant has parking available nearby, adding the tongue-in-cheek warning that there’s no need to park on the terrace.

The humorous response quickly attracted attention online, with customers praising the restaurant for maintaining its sense of humour after such an unusual start to the day.