Fire damages Jon Thomas Inne in Brightwaters

Officials say an early morning fire damaged a popular restaurant in Brightwaters.

The fire happened at the Jon Thomas Inne off Sunrise Highway at around 3 a.m.

Officials tell News 12 the fire started in the kitchen and that there is heavy smoke damage throughout the building.

A firefighter suffered minor burns. Both injuries are considered minor.

There were four people living in apartments above the restaurant and all are displaced now, according to officials.

Due to the quick response from the Bay Shore Fire Department, the fire in the kitchen did not spread to the dining area or bar.

The cause of the fire is not known, but it is not considered suspicious.

The owners of the restaurant say they hope to have the bar area reopened in the next few weeks.