Lillie's Q to Rebuild in Bucktown After Fire

Lillie’s Q will be back after a devastating fire closed the restaurant March 15.

The Bucktown barbecue joint will undergo and “aggressive timetable” of reconstruction, representatives told Grubstreet Chicago Friday.

The fire—which started with the hot water heater—caused "total damage" to the restaurant. But most of that damage occurred in the basement and preparation area, rather than the kitchen and smokers.

Firefighters arrived on the scene at 1856 W. North Ave. about 11:40 p.m. to find flames coming out of the restaurant’s basement. The fire took more than an hour to get under control and flared up again after 4 a.m.

One firefighter suffered minor injuries at the scene.

Lillie’s Q in the French Market reopened and started serving a limited menu late last week.

"We will be back," read a statement on the Lillie’s Q Facebook page. "We wanted to thank all of you for the tremendous outpouring of love and support."

One of those supporters was Ovie Bar and Grill in the West Loop. Owners offered their kitchen’s smoker while the restaurant rebuilds, Grubstreet Chicago reports.

Chef Charlie McKenna said he’s working to find work for his staff and promised to rehire them when the restaurant reopens, at a to-be-determined date.

Read more: 

• Second Lillie's Q Location in Chicago to Open in Chicago French Market Late January
• Lillie's Q 'Will Be Back' After Devastating Fire
• Updated: Fire Totals Lillie's Q in Bucktown