Eleven people were hospitalised following an explosion in El Pecos, Royal Palm Plaza, Maraval.
There were no deaths immediately confirmed. Four were reportedly in critical condition. One person was reported to be missing.
Up to early afternoon, firefighters remained on the scene, working to contain the fire, as thick black smoke billowed from both the front and back of the restaurant, located on the ground floor of Royal Palm Hotel.
Early reports suggested that the explosion was triggered after a gas hose was being changed in the area.
On the same day last year, the Ariapita Avenue outlet of El Pecos was destroyed after a fire was reported in the kitchen area.
Post by CNC3 Television.