PORTLAND, Ore. — A popular Argentinian-inspired restaurant in Northeast Portland is closed until further notice after a fire broke out inside the building Wednesday evening.
Greg Denton, chef and co-owner of Ox Restaurant, told KGW that the fire kindled in the restaurant's duct work. Once staff noticed smoke, they were able to evacuate everyone safely and call 911.
Though the building is believed to be structurally sound, Denton said that the fire caused considerable damage to the grill area and ducts that will require repairs. Ox will be closed until further notice, and they've halted reservations for at least the next week.
The grill is integral to the way Ox prepares food, Denton said, and the fire constitutes a major blow for the restaurant.
"We had a fire at Ox tonight and will be closed until further notice," Ox Restaurant posted on social media Wednesday night. "Thankfully everyone is safe and the building will be fine, and we will reopen as soon as possible. We are so grateful for the prompt and effective response from Portland Fire and Rescue!"
According to Portland Fire & Rescue, the fire started in a flue over a grill on the first level, before flames spread up toward the roof. Fire crews were able to cut into the roof to gain access to the fire and extinguish it.
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