A restaurant owner has spoken of his shock after a fire ripped through the kitchen of a popular steakhouse and could force them to shut “for months”.
The blaze broke out at Bleú Steakhouse in Staplehurst High Street shortly after midday today (August 16), with fire crews rushing to the scene at around 12.30pm.
Three fire engines attended, and the road was temporarily closed to traffic as firefighters tackled the flames.
Thankfully, no one was hurt and the fire did not spread to neighbouring buildings, but the restaurant’s kitchen was completely destroyed.
Co-owner Jamil Trofder said staff had only just begun preparing for lunch service when disaster struck.
“It’s still a bit of a shock,” he said.
“We were just opening for lunch service and everything they had out basically caught alight.”
He explained that food still in packaging and other materials quickly became fuel for the flames.
Despite the intensity of the fire, staff managed to prevent it from spreading further by shutting the fire doors.
“We managed to contain it in the kitchen mainly,” he said.
“It’s completely gutted. It will need a completely new kitchen
“Luckily, it didn’t spread across the restaurant.”
Fire crews had the blaze under control within about half an hour, though they remained at the scene for more than an hour to ensure it was fully extinguished.
The restaurant, which opened in August 2022 and seats 56 people, has since confirmed it will remain closed until further notice.
In a statement, bosses wrote: “Due to an unexpected fire at the restaurant, we will be closed until further notice.
“Thankfully, everyone is safe, but we need time to assess the damage and make the necessary repairs before we can welcome you back.”
Mr Trofder, who co-owns the business with Tariq Ahmed, said it was too early to know exactly how long the closure will last.
“Honestly, it’s probably too early to say,” he explained.
“We’re going to have to see the extent of work that needs to be carried out.
“It could be a month, it could be two months. I’m hoping the sooner the better.
“We’ve been nominated for a few awards this year. It’s really bad timing.”
The restaurateur, who lives in London, rushed to Staplehurst as soon as he heard the news, but arrived after the flames had been put out.
“By the time I flew down here, everything was done,” he said.
“I’m just trying to sort out the utilities and stuff at the moment.”
Bleú Steakhouse has quickly built a reputation for premium dining since its launch, and is part of a group of venues owned by Tariq Ahmed, who also runs Jumeira nearby and a takeaway in Wadhurst.
Kent Fire and Rescue Service has been contacted for more information.
