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A fire destroyed part of the restaurant "La Esquina de la Fama" on Calle Ocho in Little Havana, Miami, on Monday afternoon.
The fire caused severe damage to the structure of the popular establishment, founded 14 years ago, and forced the evacuation of staff. Although there were no injuries, the material losses were significant.
According to local media reports, the fire started around 4:00 p.m. at the building located at 1442 Southwest 8th Street.
Aerial images broadcast by the news showed a dense column of black smoke rising from the building, while a total of 16 units of firefighters and rescuers worked to contain the flames.
"When we started, it happened about 20 minutes later", reported Alejandra Ruiz, an employee of the restaurant, in statements to Telemundo 51.
Another testimony gathered by CBS News indicates that the fire originated in the warehouse, and that "we went in and that’s when we saw smoke and sparks of flames."
Initial reports suggest that it may have started in an office, although the official cause is still under investigation.
Emergency evacuation and response
At the time of the fire, there were no customers inside the establishment, but several employees were present.
According to WSVN, there were a dozen workers present during a shift change. Fortunately, everyone was able to evacuate the area without any injuries.
"We only had time to grab our things and call 911; we really don't know what happened. It was very sudden," said Alejandra Ruiz to WSVN.
Lieutenant Pete Sánchez, spokesperson for the Miami Fire Department, detailed that upon arrival at the scene, they found fire and smoke both at the rear and at the front of the building, prompting them to launch a simultaneous attack and to set up ladders for ventilation of the roof, which was also affected by the flames.
Material damages and devastation
Although the teams managed to control the fire in about 20 minutes, the damage was severe.
The ceiling collapsed in a section of the restaurant, and several pieces of equipment, including refrigerators, sound systems, and televisions, were completely destroyed.
"The place was wrecked," stated Juan López, another employee, in a conversation with Telemundo 51.
The owner of the establishment, Miky Chevalier, was more emphatic: “Everything is almost destroyed, there is a lot of smoke, it's a huge fire. I lost a great deal of things.”
CBS News reported that the fire was classified as a "Code 1" incident, which required sending additional personnel to the scene.
Additionally, the Miami Police Department temporarily closed vehicular traffic on SW 8th Street between 12th and 17th Avenues as a precautionary measure.
A story of effort and community
Founded 14 years ago by the Chevalier family, "La Esquina de la Fama" has become an iconic spot for Latin culture in Miami. It is a place where food, music, and community pride come together, attracting both locals and tourists. "People come from all over the world to enjoy what we have here, with live music and everything you need," Chevalier recalled to WSVN.
In his testimony, the businessman not only lamented the material losses but also the impact on those who depend on the restaurant: “I’m really sorry, not just for myself and my family, because that’s how I support my family, but also for my employees.”
Despite the harsh blow, the owner keeps his spirits high. "Thank God, we are going to do it again," he stated in CBS News. In comments to WSVN, he was more emphatic: "I promise that I will reopen La Esquina De La Fama, I will do it again."
Frequently Asked Questions About the Fire at "La Esquina de la Fama" in Miami
How did the fire at "La Esquina de la Fama" in Miami happen?
The fire started around 4:00 p.m. at the restaurant located on Calle Ocho in Little Havana. While the exact causes are under investigation, initial reports suggest that it may have begun in an office within the building.
What damage did the fire cause at "La Esquina de la Fama"?
The fire caused severe damage to the restaurant's structure, including the partial collapse of the roof and the destruction of equipment such as refrigerators, sound systems, and televisions. Fortunately, there were no injuries.
What has been the reaction of the owner of "La Esquina de la Fama" after the fire?
The owner, Miky Chevalier, has expressed his intention to reopen the restaurant, despite the material losses. He assured that "I will do it again," demonstrating a spirit of resilience and commitment to his employees and the community.
How has the emergency response to the fire been managed?
The response was quick and coordinated, with 16 units of firefighters and rescuers managing to control the flames in about 20 minutes. The evacuation of personnel was carried out without incidents, and the street was closed to traffic as a precautionary measure.
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