Fire Forces Evacuation, Shut Down Of Lincoln Park's Balena

By Anthony Todd in Food on Aug 9, 2017 2:10PM

Last night, during service, a fire struck popular Boka group Italian spot Balena, shutting it down. No one was hurt, but the damage appears extensive.

Boka group owner Kevin Boehm posted to social media as the fire was happening and after it was put out. First, at approximately 8 p.m. last night: "The bad news: there was a fire of unknown origin and Balena & Royal George Theatre had to evacuate all guests. Good news: everyone is ok. More to come as we know details."

Later, after the fire was out: "Unfortunately the damage at Balena is considerable. A sad night for us on Halsted. Tomorrow we will roll up our sleeves and start to rebuild her. Thankfully, everyone is ok. In the end, thats all that matters."

The Chicago Fire Department also tweeted about the fire.

Still and box at 1633 north Halsted. Restaurant fire was in roof. Spread to structure

— Chicago Fire Media (@CFDMedia) August 9, 2017

pic.twitter.com/btifgYxhJD

— Chicago Fire Media (@CFDMedia) August 9, 2017

S &B 1633 n halsted struck out by 2 2 1. All searches negative. Rehab in progress. Still hitting with water pic.twitter.com/4hiM4emfTy

— Chicago Fire Media (@CFDMedia) August 9, 2017

DNAinfo got in touch with Darcy Horath, a PR representative for Boka group, who confirmed that the restaurant was full at the time of the fire, but that everyone got out without injury. No word yet on the cause or the full extent of the damage.