Fire damages popular Otis Cafe near coast

A fire Thursday night heavily damaged the Otis Cafe, a well-known landmark and popular restaurant near Lincoln City and the Oregon coast, officials said.

North Lincoln Fire & Rescue said it responded shortly before 8 p.m. to the fire at the beloved and historic restaurant at the intersection of state Highway 18 and Old Scenic Highway 101. The agency said the fire was put out in 20 minutes, with crews staying on scene through the night.

The fire began in the kitchen area and flames were seen coming from the eaves and chimney. Officials said there was extensive smoke and heat damage throughout the building. There were no injuries and the cause of the fire is under investigation, though KGW reported foul play is not suspected.

Visitors to the Central Oregon coast have frequented the family-run cafe for decades and it even got a New York Times review in 1989.

The owner of the cafe, Jeff England, said he was overwhelmed by the community support and hopes to rebuild, KGW said..