Eleni’s Kitchen and Bar, a Yarraville Greek restaurant targeted by Arson again, in Melbourne’s inner west, was severely damaged in a suspected arson attack early Monday morning, marking the second such incident in less than a year.
Around 4:30 AM, offenders drove a car into the back of the restaurant on Anderson Street and set it on fire. The perpetrators then fled in a second vehicle. Thankfully, no one was inside at the time.
Firefighters control the blaze, but the restaurant suffers significant damage
Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) quickly responded to the blaze, with 18 firefighters on-site. The fire was contained within approximately 20 minutes, though significant damage was sustained to the lower floor of the restaurant.
FRV Commander Callum Donoghue confirmed that the fire was contained to the restaurant, preventing it from spreading to nearby buildings. “The neighbours were briefly evacuated, but they were allowed back in once the fire was under control,” Donoghue said. Smoke and water damage were also confined to the building of origin.
Community concerned as attacks on Local businesses continue
This is the second arson attack on Eleni’s Kitchen and Bar within a year. The restaurant had only recently reopened in November 2024 after being severely damaged by a similar fire in June 2024 that also affected a neighboring florist.
Local residents are shaken by the repeated attacks. Levi, a frequent diner at the restaurant, described the situation as unsettling: “It’s scary. The owners are part of the community, and it’s a place that’s always packed with locals. To see something like this happen to them is shocking.”
Investigation underway, Police seek public assistance
Victoria Police are actively investigating the fire, and an arson chemist is expected to visit the scene later today. A crime scene has been established, and authorities are urging anyone who witnessed the incident or has CCTV footage to contact CrimeStoppers on 1800 333 000.
