Blu Jam Cafe’s Woodland Hills location has temporarily closed following a fire that caused significant damage to the restaurant’s kitchen and dining area. The fire broke out on the afternoon of Aug. 1 inside the cafe, which is located at 23311 W. Mulholland Drive, according to a statement from the Los Angeles Fire Department.
Fire crews responded to reports of heavy smoke around 4:30 p.m., and additional companies were dispatched, including units from the Los Angeles County Fire Department. No injuries were reported, but damage to the business was described as extensive.
In a statement posted to Facebook on Thursday, Blu Jam Cafe confirmed the closure and thanked patrons for their support. “Thankfully, no one was hurt, but we need time to assess and repair the space before reopening,” the post read. The restaurant encouraged guests to visit its other locations during the closure.
Chef and owner Kamil Majer told KTLA that the fire may have originated from oil dripping from the kitchen hood, although the official cause is still under investigation. The restaurant’s insurance company is expected to conduct a separate inquiry into the incident.
Majer expressed deep frustration and sadness over the latest setback, calling it part of a string of challenges his business has faced in recent years, including the COVID-19 pandemic, economic downturns, labor strikes, rising food costs, and declining tourism.
“This location is our second best, so it will be a struggle, but I am used to struggle,” he said. “It has been five-plus years of hell. We had 300 employees in 2019 — now we have around 70. I am truly sad and upset.”
Blu Jam Cafe is a locally beloved brunch chain known for its signature crunchy French toast and organic ingredients. Its Woodland Hills outpost has long served residents in the west San Fernando Valley and nearby Calabasas. No reopening timeline has been announced.
The cafe said it will continue to provide updates through its social media channels.
