Popular Eastside eatery Lil’ Jon damaged in fire

Fire caused extensive damage at a popular Bellevue restaurant Thursday morning.

Fire crews from Bellevue, Mercer Island and Eastside Fire and Rescue responded to Lil’ Jon in the Eastgate area about 1:30 a.m. Thursday.

When fire crews arrived at the scene, black smoke could be seen coming from the roof of the longtime local eatery. After about 30 minutes, the fire was deemed under control.

The Bellevue Fire Department reports there was an extensive amount of damage done to the kitchen by smoke, fire and the water used to extinguish it. They anticipate damage estimates will be near a half million dollars.

There’s no word yet on what started the fire. No injuries were reported.