News Summary
A fire broke out at the California Dreaming restaurant in Columbia, S.C., but was quickly contained by the Columbia-Richland Fire Department. Prompt response escalated the situation to a two-alarm fire, allowing additional resources to be deployed. The fire was traced to the restaurant’s ventilation system, with no injuries reported among employees and customers. Investigations into the cause of the fire are ongoing, underscoring the significance of emergency preparedness in commercial establishments.
Columbia, S.C. – Fire Quickly Extinguished at California Dreaming Restaurant
A fire erupted at the California Dreaming restaurant in Columbia, South Carolina, on Saturday night, prompting a swift response from the local fire department. The Columbia-Richland Fire Department received the first emergency call reporting the incident around 9:30 p.m.
Upon arrival, firefighters observed visible flames emerging from the restaurant’s roof and third floor. To effectively manage the situation, the fire response was escalated to a two-alarm level, allowing for additional firefighting resources to be deployed to the scene.
Firefighters quickly traced the source of the fire to the restaurant’s ventilation system. While preliminary investigations suggested that smoke was rising into the attic area, the incident was confined to the ventilation system itself. Thanks to the prompt actions of the fire crews, the blaze was swiftly contained and extinguished, preventing further damage.
Fortunately, at the time of the fire, there were employees and several customers present in the restaurant. All individuals were able to evacuate safely, with no injuries reported. The restaurant staff assisted in the evacuation process, ensuring that all guests left the premises unharmed.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation, and further details on the incident are expected to emerge as officials continue to assess the situation.
Background on California Dreaming Restaurant
California Dreaming is a popular dining establishment known for its diverse menu and welcoming atmosphere. Located in Columbia, the restaurant attracts both locals and visitors, making it a staple within the community. Instances like the recent fire highlight the importance of swift emergency response and preparedness in commercial settings.
The Columbia-Richland Fire Department has a history of efficiently managing emergency responses throughout the region, demonstrating their capability through this recent incident. The quick action taken during the fire at California Dreaming is a testament to the training and preparedness of the firefighters who responded.
Community members and local business owners are likely reflecting on the event, recognizing the importance of safety measures in public spaces. As investigations continue, the restaurant’s management is expected to work closely with fire department officials to determine the cause and implement any necessary safety upgrades moving forward.
While no significant damage was reported beyond the localized area of the ventilation system, the incident serves as a reminder of the risks associated with operating a large public establishment. Community members are advised to be aware of emergency procedures in public places and take note of safety exits whenever dining out or participating in public events.
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Additional Resources
- WIS TV: Columbia Fire Crews Respond to 2 Alarm Fire at California Dreaming
- Wikipedia: Fire Safety
- KPAX: Crews Knock Down Fire at Columbia Falls Restaurant
- Google Search: California Dreaming Restaurant Fire
- ABC News 4: Investigation Begins Into Massive Fire at Maurice’s Piggie Park
- Google Scholar: Restaurant Fire Emergency Response
- Cola Daily: Maurice’s West Columbia Location Reopens After Fire
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Restaurant Fire Prevention
- Post and Courier: Maurice’s Piggie Park Fire in West Columbia
- Google News: Columbia Restaurant Fire

Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON WRITER
The LEXINGTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELexington.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Lexington, Fayette County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Woodland Art Fair, Crave Food and Music Festival, and Railbird Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like Commerce Lexington and Blue Grass Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in education, manufacturing, and technology that power the local economy such as University of Kentucky, Toyota Motor Manufacturing, and Lexmark. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBowlingGreen.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.


