Restaurant goers to the popular Chef Pon’s Asian Kitchen in Gardens, Cape Town, had a nasty surprise this weekend when one of the open kitchen flames got out of control and set fire to the kitchen.

The restaurant was full at the time and, thankfully, the staff managed to evacuate all patrons safely, including two babies. The restaurant sustained significant damage and what wasn’t burned was melted by the heat of the flames.

Although closed as a result, fans and regulars need not worry, as it will clearly take more than a freak accident to stop the staff at Chef Pon’s from doing what they do best – providing delicious, traditional Asian cuisine in an authentic setting. Chef Pon’s will reopen on 1 March 2011, sporting a brand new look and decor, but with the same menu.