The kitchen of Chef Al Brown’s Federal St Deli in Auckland sustained extensive damage after a fire broke out yesterday which resulted in hundreds of workers being evacuated in the area.
Thick smoke was seen billowing out of the top of Federal House on Federal St around 2pm and diners from Federal Deli, Depot and neighbouring Masu were also evacuated.
“Sad day…fire in extraction hoods. Fed kitchen gutted, Depot, not too bad. Silver lining… no one hurt. Will keep you updated when pastrami and sugar pie back up and feeding the hunger! Thanks for everyone’s kind words!” Brown tweeted.
He also shared this photograph on Instagram.
Skycity chef operating officer John Mortensen says he is hopeful that Depot will reopen next week. “The damage to Depot is not as bad as we thought and the kitchen is largely in one piece. Unfortunately this is not the case for Federal Delicatessen which will be closed for some time,” Mortensen says. “We’re very grateful that all our fire alarm, evacuation and security systems worked well and no employees or customers were hurt or injured. This is largely due to the efficiency and effectiveness of the New Zealand First Service and our fantastic staff.”
Brown says the focus is now on repairing both restaurants.
“We’ve received a huge amount of support overnight from the wider Depot and Fed Deli family, which we are super grateful for. We’re now looking forward to getting the restaurants operational again as soon as possible and we’ll keep you all posted on our progress,” Brown says.
