Fitzroy restaurant damaged in fire

The Commoner restaurant in Fitzroy has been damaged by fire, leaving owner Jo Corrigan no choice but to close the business for up to four weeks.

The blaze started last night, while the restaurant was shut for Anzac Day, causing extensive damage to the restaurant's kitchen, including entirely melting the bottom of the oven.

Corrigan says the fire started in the kitchen and “has been found to be accidental by fire investigators”.

“We will be back,” she says, determined to open the restaurant again as soon as possible.

Corrigan says her team of staff has called fellow hospitality workers and restaurateurs in Melbourne and interstate, with offers to help out while the Commoner is repaired. “I have the best team I could ask for,” says Corrigan.

The Commoner (122 Johnston Street, Fitzroy) plans to reopen by the end of May.