PITTSTON — The Majestic Lunch will be closed Friday due to a fire that started in a soda cooler in the dining area of the eatery.
The fire was reported about 7:45 a.m. by employee Debbie Sherfield, who was in the back kitchen doing prep work before opening the restaurant, located at 20 S. Main St., Pittston.
Sherfield heard a strange popping and sparking noise.
“I came out and saw flames shooting out from under the machine,” Sherfield said. “I was scared to death and called 911.”
Pittston Fire Department responded quickly, she said.
Harry Salavantis, the owner of Majestic Lunch, said he is grateful no one was hurt and for Sherfield’s quick thinking.
By 8:15 a.m. Friday, Sherfield had the front door open to air out the smoke and was mopping up water on the tile floor. Damage to the 15-year-old machine seemed to be limited to the bottom vent section.
Salavantis said the machine received regular maintenance.
The Majestic Lunch will remain closed on Friday for cleaning and disposal of items damaged by smoke and water, he said.
“The state Health Department was already here,” Salavantis said. “They support our decision to close today.
“We will re-open Saturday for regular business hours.”
