Patrons and staff at one of Sydney's most popular dining destinations were forced into a swift evacuation this afternoon after a fierce fire broke out in the kitchen.
The alarming incident occurred at the famed Italian eatery Totti's on Bondi Road, sending thick plumes of smoke into the air and triggering a major emergency response just after 3:30 PM.
Fire and Rescue NSW crews descended upon the scene with remarkable speed, battling the blaze and successfully preventing it from spreading to other parts of the building. Their prompt action ensured the safety of all individuals present.
Chaos and Calm: The Evacuation
Eyewitnesses described a scene of initial chaos that quickly turned to orderly procedure. 'There was a lot of smoke suddenly coming from the kitchen area, and the alarms went off almost instantly,' one diner reported. 'The staff were fantastic, ushering everyone out quickly and calmly.'
The restaurant, known for its bustling atmosphere and signature wood-fired bread, was cleared within minutes. Miraculously, despite the lunchtime rush, there have been no reports of any injuries to guests or employees.
Investigating the Cause
While the fire was contained to the kitchen, the extent of the damage is still being assessed. Early speculation from officials suggests the blaze may have originated from cooking equipment, though a full investigation is now underway to determine the exact cause.
The event serves as a stark reminder of the ever-present dangers in commercial kitchens and the critical importance of working fire safety systems and trained staff.
