Lillie's Q Extensively Damaged by Fire, Both Locations Closed Indefinitely

An overnight fire caused extensive damage to extremely popular Bucktown BBQ joint Lillie's Q, causing the restaurant to close indefinitely. A water heater caught fire after service closed and mere minutes after emptying out, according to spokesman Dave Andrews, and firefighters say they received the first call around 11:30 p.m. Smoldering embers prompted two more calls overnight, causing extensive damage to the basement, which houses the prep kitchen, beer coolers, exhaust, offices, and supplies. The Bucktown location provides product for the French Market location, which will close too. Owner Charlie McKenna says the dining room is "all torn up" but the equipment is fine. Apartments in the building were also damaged but just one person, a firefighter, suffered minor injuries.

Lillie's Q spokespeople can't comment at this time on when, or if, they will reopen. But McKenna, when asked if they will reopen, replied "oh yeah." Firefighters on scene estimate months of repairs, permits, and insurance complications in the space, which Lillie's Q leases. They opened in 2010.

Lillie's Q posted a note on their Facebook page this morning, which partially read, "We come to all of you with heavy hearts this morning...We're so grateful for all the outpouring of support from everyone. We'll be back somewhere, somehow, and someway."
· All Lillie's Q Coverage [~ECHI~]
· Lillie's Q [Official Site]