DETROIT – Firefighters battled flames Friday morning at the Katoi restaurant at Michigan Avenue and 17th Street in Detroit.
There have been no reports of injuries.
Flames consumed the building about 6:30 a.m. Friday. Firefighters attacked it from the roof and were able to battle it back.
Detroit police said someone broke into the restaurant and likely set it on fire to cover up the break-in. Investigators said the interior is destroyed.
The cause is still under investigation.
A bag of stolen liquor was left behind. Police are working to find out if this is related to a break-in at nearby Nemo's Bar. They believe these break-ins are connected because in both cases alcohol was stolen.
Story: Thief breaks into Nemo's Bar in Detroit
New: Katoi was broken into & investigators believe fire set to cover it. Bag of stolen liquor left behind. #local4 pic.twitter.com/euEPF5CD34
— Nick Monacelli (@nickmonacelli) February 17, 2017
Breaking: Police say the fire at popular Katoi restaurant is suspicious. Investigators say it could be arson. #local4 pic.twitter.com/qW91cDTiFD
— Nick Monacelli (@nickmonacelli) February 17, 2017
Update: Substantial damage to popular Katoi Restaurant in Corktown. Firefighters working on hot spots. #local4 pic.twitter.com/rkJDThbG1n
— Nick Monacelli (@nickmonacelli) February 17, 2017
This video from Sky4 shows the aftermath of the fire:
The Detroit Free Press recently named Katoi No. 1 in its "Best New Restaurants" countdown.
Katoi was featured on Local 4's Live In The D this past spring -- watch here:
Stay with ClickOnDetroit for more information as it becomes available.
Sign up for ClickOnDetroit breaking news alerts and email newsletters
Search for a specific story:
Live update on the fire at Katoi, a popular new restaurant in Corktown. Investigators believe it's arson. http://bit.ly/2lV16xl
Posted by WDIV Local 4 / ClickOnDetroit on Friday, February 17, 2017