Destin’s Blue Mahoe Restaurant damaged in early morning fire, two firefighters injured

A large fire engulfed the Blue Mahoe Breakfast & Lunch Restaurant at 300 Harbor Boulevard in Destin early Wednesday morning, causing significant damage and forcing the closure of the road between Palmetto and Melvin Streets.

According to the Destin Fire Control District, the call came in around 2:20 a.m., with reports of smoke emanating from the restaurant. Upon arrival, firefighters encountered heavy fire conditions while attempting to initiate an attack on the blaze.

However, a flashover occurred, prompting the call for a second alarm.

As the fire intensified, a third alarm was called to bring in additional manpower and an air truck to support the firefighting efforts. The Destin Fire Control District confirmed that two firefighters sustained injuries or required treatment during the incident. No civilian injuries were reported.

The Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office diverted eastbound traffic on Harbor Boulevard at Palmetto Street onto Mountain Drive, while westbound traffic was rerouted at Melvin Street onto Mountain Drive. As of 8:35am, all lanes were back open.

Multiple agencies responded to the scene to assist in controlling the fire and managing traffic.

• “Great job by all crews to keep this fire from spreading further,” the Destin Fire Control District praised in an official release.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation, and the extent of the damage to the Blue Mahoe Breakfast & Lunch Restaurant has not been disclosed at this time.