Bj's Restaurant And Brewhouse Pembroke Pines
A kitchen fire erupted at the BJ's Restaurant and Brewhouse in Pembroke Pines late Thursday night, prompting a swift response from local fire rescue teams. The incident led to the temporary closure of the restaurant and an ongoing investigation into the cause.
The blaze, though contained quickly, underscores the ever-present risk of kitchen fires in commercial establishments and the importance of stringent safety measures. This article provides a factual account of the incident, the response, and the current status of the restaurant.
Incident Overview
The fire broke out at approximately 10:45 PM on Thursday, October 26, 2023, at the BJ's Restaurant and Brewhouse located at 12301 Pines Boulevard, Pembroke Pines, Florida.
Pembroke Pines Fire Rescue responded to the scene following multiple reports of smoke emanating from the kitchen area. Initial reports suggest the fire originated near the cooking line, specifically around the fryers.
No injuries were reported to either staff or patrons, as the restaurant was successfully evacuated prior to the fire escalating. This was confirmed by Pembroke Pines Fire Rescue spokesperson, Captain Al Ramirez.
Emergency Response
Firefighters arrived on scene within minutes and immediately began suppressing the flames.
The rapid response prevented the fire from spreading beyond the immediate kitchen area, containing it primarily to the vicinity of the fryers and surrounding equipment.
Crews were able to fully extinguish the fire within approximately 30 minutes of arrival. Ventilation efforts were then initiated to clear the building of smoke and ensure safe air quality.
Impact and Aftermath
The BJ's Restaurant and Brewhouse location is currently closed to the public while damage assessment and cleanup are underway.
Preliminary estimates suggest the fire caused significant damage to the kitchen area, including the fryers, ventilation system, and surrounding infrastructure. The exact cost of the damage is still being evaluated.
The Broward County Health Department has been notified and will conduct a thorough inspection before the restaurant is permitted to reopen to ensure compliance with all health and safety regulations.
Investigation Details
The Pembroke Pines Fire Marshal's Office is conducting a full investigation into the cause of the fire.
While the investigation is ongoing, initial findings suggest the fire may have been related to a malfunction or improper maintenance of the fryer equipment.
Further details regarding the cause are expected to be released following the completion of the investigation. No foul play is suspected at this time.
Restaurant Statement
BJ's Restaurants, Inc. released a brief statement acknowledging the incident.
The statement confirmed the fire, the successful evacuation, and the temporary closure of the Pembroke Pines location. It also expressed gratitude to the Pembroke Pines Fire Rescue for their swift and effective response.
"We are grateful for the quick response of the Pembroke Pines Fire Rescue and thankful that no one was injured," the statement read. "We are working diligently to assess the damage and reopen the restaurant as soon as possible, prioritizing the safety and well-being of our guests and team members."
Community Impact
The closure of BJ's Restaurant and Brewhouse impacts not only the restaurant's employees but also the local community that frequents the establishment.
The restaurant is a popular dining destination in Pembroke Pines, and its temporary closure may cause inconvenience for some residents. Further, the employees will face temporary loss of income.
Other restaurant owners expressed concern over the fire. They reiterated their commitment to safety and the importance of regular maintenance checks of cooking equipment.
Looking Ahead
The reopening date for the BJ's Restaurant and Brewhouse Pembroke Pines location remains uncertain.
The timing depends on the extent of the damage, the completion of repairs, and the approval from the Broward County Health Department. Restaurant officials expect the location to be closed for several weeks at least.
This story will be updated as more information becomes available regarding the investigation and the restaurant's reopening timeline. Check back for updates as they develop.
