By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Greenhouse restaurant in Sandton | Picture: greenhousejhb.co.za.
The popular The Greenhouse restaurant in Sandton, Johannesburg went up in flames at around 22:00 on Saturday, prompting restaurant staff to evacuate the premises.
It’s understood the fire was started by sparklers fireworks inside the restaurant on Saturday night.
Patrons posted videos on social media of the tapas bar roof decoration on fire with staff trying to extinguish the fire.
Fire at Greenhouse at 24 Central Gwen Lane Sandton pic.twitter.com/B5BlPKiSro
— IntelliSolutions Africa (Pty) Ltd (@intellisolu) February 26, 2022
Greenhouse Sandton took to social media to issue an emergency notice on Saturday evening and the eatery also thanked the emergency services that helped quiet the flames.
“We would like to inform everyone that there has been an unfortunate event tonight at the Greenhouse and that everyone is safe and ok. We would like to thank the heroes and emergency services who helped us tonight,” read the caption under an Instagram image containing the same message.
EMS spokesperson Nana Radebe said the first fire alert was received at 22:23, and two fire engines responded.
“On arrival, the fire had been extinguished, and no injuries or fatalities were reported. The cause of the fire was not investigated as the fire was extinguished by the people from the building,” Radebe said.
Police spokesperson Captain Mavela Masondo said police opened an inquiry docket.
“The cause of the fire cannot be confirmed at this stage. We are still waiting for a report from firefighters and forensic services.”
Greenhouse became known for its unique aesthetic which brought the outdoors inside through lush, green interiors and roof decor that made it feel as though you were dining under the foliage of a greenhouse.
Their Rosebank location became such a success that they had to move to Sandton’s 24 Central precinct alongside establishments like Taboo Nightclub, the recently launched Monarch supper club and Solo restaurant.
The eatery recently hosted the cast of The Wife on Showmax for a viewing party ahead of the launch of season two of the show. Musical act Goodluck was booked to perform on Saturday afternoon (the day of the fire).