INDIANAPOLIS (WTHR) - Firefighters responded to a fire at a popular east Indianapolis restaurant early Saturday.
The fire was reported just after midnight at Kountry Kitchen Soul Food Place in the 1800 block of North College Avenue.
Firefighters officials say they believe the fire started in the area of the downstairs office, however the cause of the fire is still undetermined. No foul play is suspected.
No one was inside the restaurant when the fire broke out.
The fire resulted in heavy damage to the entire building. Authorities say there was a partial collapse of the building which prevented investigators from safely entering the building. Extra crews were called to the scene due to heavy smoke in the structure.
While fire crews were working on scene, a driver was stopped by IMPD for attempting to drive over a fire hose. The driver received a ticket and had to stay on scene until the hose was no longer in use.
Kountry Kitchen has become a popular stop for Indianapolis residents as well as local and national celebrities. In 2008, then-Senator Barack Obama stopped by the restaurant while he campaigned for the Democratic presidential nomination he ultimately won. Late night talk show host Jimmy Fallon visited during Super Bowl week in 2012.
The restaurant's website features photos of the star athletes and other celebs who have grabbed a bite at Kountry Kitchen, including former Colts receiver Reggie Wayne, former coach Tony Dungy and singer/songwriter/producer Babyface, an Indianapolis native.
Last month, the restaurant hosted its annual "Christmas Dinner Giveaway," providing a Christmas meal for those in need, as well as hats, gloves and socks and toys for children.