Updated at 3:21 p.m., Monday, December 17, 2007
Grease buildup blamed in fire at Beretania eatery
Advertiser Staff
The Honolulu Fire Department received numerous calls about "heavy black smoke" coming from the Yakiniku Camellia Buffet on Beretania Street at about 1:50 p.m.Approximately 40 firefighters with five engines responded, and
the fire was under control by 2:04 p.m, said Honolulu fire Capt. Frank Johnson.
The restaurant at 2494 S. Beretania St. was open for lunch and most of the tables in the restaurant were filled with customers when the fire started. Everyone was evacuated.
There were no injuries.
Johnson said the fire was caused by grease building up inside the restaurant's exhaust duct.
Most of the damage was to the exhaust duct, Johnson said.
Police blocked off traffic at the intersection of Beretania Street and Kaialiu Street in front of Star Market and directed traffic through the Star Market parking lot and other routes.
Beretania Street was reopened at 2:26 p.m.
The restaurant has since reopened as well.
