A fire that broke out Monday night at the London Belle Supper Club in Salt Lake City’s downtown nightlife district injured three firefighters and damaged several historic buildings. The blaze started in the restaurant’s kitchen and quickly spread, forcing crews to battle intense heat and thick smoke from the outside using aerial equipment.
Salt Lake City Fire Chief Karl Lieb said the fire spread rapidly due to the available fuel and the age of the buildings, some dating back to 1920. About 78 firefighters were on the scene, working hard to contain the flames and protect neighboring businesses. Despite their efforts, the fire caused an estimated $5 million in damage across five connected buildings.
Three firefighters were hurt while battling the blaze. One broke an ankle, another suffered from smoke inhalation and dehydration, and the third was injured by falling debris and briefly trapped before being rescued. Thankfully, all were reported to be in stable condition the next day.
Jason Andersen, who worked as chef de cuisine at Whiskey Street Cocktails & Dining for seven years, had just left for the night when his sous-chef called to say the block was on fire and everyone was evacuating. Andersen returned in time to see the fire engulf windows and send smoke and debris into the air. By morning, only charred remains were left inside what once was his second home and workplace.
“It was like family,” Andersen said. “We were always there for each other, and now our home has burned to the ground.” Despite the shock and stress, he tried to keep spirits up with a joke about leaving his knives behind in the fire.
The fire also hit other popular spots including Los Tapatios, White Horse, and the London Belle itself. These places are well-known in Salt Lake City and have been part of the city’s downtown scene for decades. Mayor Erin Mendenhall called the fire “a tragic loss,” adding that these iconic businesses are at the heart of the city’s vibe. She expressed hope that they will rebuild.
A nearby restaurant, Eva, suffered some smoke and water damage but escaped major harm. The city plans to help affected businesses by offering no-interest loans once insurance assessments are complete.
The Downtown Alliance, representing thousands of local businesses and owners, noted the fire’s impact will go beyond just the damaged buildings. Still, they shared optimism that property owners intend to rebuild, and they thanked firefighters for their quick response and for keeping everyone safe.
Before the fire, the block was a lively spot known among locals as “Sinners’ Row,” a tongue-in-cheek nod to the area’s historic reputation and the state’s conservative culture. The London Belle, with its history linked to an early 1900s madam and an era of city-sanctioned vice, embraced its colorful past as a “seductive sanctuary.”
The light rail line running along the block remains open, but officials ask people to avoid the area unless necessary as cleanup and investigation continue. Authorities anticipate it may take weeks to determine the fire’s full cause and scope.