While all staff and customers managed to evacuate safely, one employee was treated for breathing difficulties at the scene by paramedics.

The restaurant is expected to be closed for about two months for repairs to be undertaken.

Queanbeyan Fire Station Commander Wayne Huggins said two firefighters entered the restaurant on Friday afternoon in breathing apparatus as fire and dense black smoke engulfed the rear of the establishment.

``The roof was fully engulfed and flames could be seen pouring out of the roof,'' he said. ``When the first truck crossed the [Queen's] Bridge they could see large volumes of smoke and flames coming from the roofing at the rear of the premises.''

He said thick smoke made it difficult for crews to locate the fire source and support from the ACT was called to help access the ceiling cavity.

For the full story, please see Friday's Queanbeyan Age, available from our front office on Monaro Street, or at newsagencies and supermarkets across the Queanbeyan region.