A popular Vernon restaurant will be closed indefinitely for repairs following a Friday afternoon fire that could have caused more damage if not for the quick response of firefighting crews. 

Vernon Fire Rescue Services responded to a report of a fire in the 34th Avenue building that houses Intermezzo Restaurant and Wine Cellar, as well as Centre Dry Cleaners and Total Pet, around 3 p.m. June 7. All three businesses were evacuated as crews tackled the small fire that started in the utility room of one of the stores. 

Shortly after the blaze, Intermezzo staff addressed its "beloved customers" in a Facebook post, saying the restaurant will be closed due to the unforeseen circumstances. 

According to the post, the fire originated in one of the businesses next to Intermezzo but led to smoke and water damage at the restaurant.

"The situation could have been much much worse. We are eternally thankful for the Vernon fire fighters (sic) fast response and our staffs quick thinking to the emergency at hand. A big thank you to Okanagan Restoration who is currently hard at work to repair our restaurant," the post reads. 

The restaurant highlighted that Intermezzo's Castle Bistro on Greenhow Road remains open while the 34th Avenue restaurant is closed "indefinitely" for repairs. Reservations for the Castle Bistro can be made by emailing info@intermezzowinecellar.com. 

"We thank you all for your continued loyalty, understanding and support during this difficult time," the post reads.