A devastating fire has completely destroyed Antalya Shawarma, a restaurant on Linthorpe Road in Middlesbrough, with the owners confirming that "everything we built is gone." Eight fire engines were dispatched to the scene at around 10:45 a.m. on Saturday, June 20, as flames erupted and spread to neighboring businesses.
Aftermath and Road Closure
As of Sunday morning, June 21, Linthorpe Road remains closed between Gresham Road and St Aidan's Road for a structural assessment of the terraced buildings. Photographs from the scene show extensive damage: windows shattered, the roof destroyed, and the entire front of Antalya Shawarma burnt out. The adjacent iFix store and the Mortgage and Money Centre above have also suffered significant damage. Abdul's Cash and Carry sustained damage to its awning, and the business is believed to have been impacted.
Emergency Response and Injuries
The North East Ambulance Service confirmed that two patients were taken to James Cook University Hospital for further treatment. Their conditions have not been disclosed but are not believed to be serious. A Cleveland Police van remains on the street. The duration of the road closure is unknown.
Owner's Statement
In a social media post, the owners of Antalya Shawarma expressed their gratitude and heartbreak: "It’s with a heavy heart we have to share that our restaurant was destroyed by fire yesterday. Thankfully, no one was hurt — and that’s what matters most to us. Everything we built is gone, but we’re grateful to be safe." They thanked customers for their loyalty and emphasized the restaurant's role in serving the homeless, providing warm meals without question. "The building is gone but those values aren’t," they wrote, vowing to rebuild "one step at a time."
Community Support
The owners acknowledged the outpouring of support, stating, "Thank you for all the love and support over the years. It means everything right now." They noted that the restaurant was more than a business—it was a family and a home for many. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
