The Oven Mitt owned by Anthony and Tonya Liford was damaged by fire on Thursday night. Owner Tonya Liford said that shortly after they arrived home from closing the restaurant, they received a call that there was a fire at the building which is located in the former Hardee’s Restaurant.
A passer-by had seen the fire and called 911 that alerted the Barbourville Fire Department. Members of the fire department arrived on the scene and was unable to enter the building through the back door where the fire was located. The firefighters said due to the intensity of the fire that the front door had to be forced open to gain access. The fire was quickly contained and was limited to the office space and banquet room. There was only smoke and slight water damage to other parts of the building.
Liford is optimistic that the restaurant can be reopened with only a brief closing.
Liford said on the business Facebook page, “The news of the fire is true but it’s not as bad as it seems. The damage was contained to the office/banquet room area. Thankfully, the kitchen and dining room are only smoked up a bit. Very much fixable. Yes, we will be down for a few days but we will be back up and running soon and better than ever! We love what we do and love all of you so nothing will break our spirit and nothing will keep us away from cooking up some good grub for our good friends. Thanks to everyone who has reached out with concern and offers to help. We will be back soon and better than ever! Much love to all”.
