A popular restaurant in northeast Minneapolis is closed while it assesses damage from a fire Sunday night.
The fire at Young Joni was reported about 6:30 p.m. When crews arrived, the restaurant had already evacuated workers and guests.
The Star Tribune named Young Joni its restaurant of the year in 2017, describing it as a true original that combines chef Ann Kim's Korean background with a fascination for hearth cooking. In addition to its pizzas, Young Joni is known for its speakeasy-like bar and cocktail lineup. Kim, who also started Pizzeria Lola and Hello Pizza, plans to open a Mexican restaurant this year in the former Lucia's space in Uptown with partner Conrad Leifur.
The Fire Department said the fire had started coming through the roof; holes needed to be made in the roof to allow the fire to escape.
In a posting on the restaurant's website, Young Joni thanked the Fire Department for its quick response.
"It will take us some time to fully assess the damage and we'll share an update once we know more," the Facebook post said. "Young Joni will remain closed until further notice."
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
STAFF REPORT
