Ricky Perez, left, and his brother Abel pose in 2015 in the kitchen at Richie's Grill and Cafe on West Front Street in Hawkins. A fire broke out in the restaurant just after 6 a.m. Tuesday morning, Sept. 11, 2018, when staff members started the fryer. File photo Andrew D. Brosig/Tyler Morning Telegraph

An early morning fire destroyed a popular Hawkins eatery.

Fire crews responded just after 6 a.m. Tuesday to Richie’s Grill, 110 W. Front St., in Hawkins. The fire was contained to Richie’s and no other businesses were affected and no injuries reported, according to officials.

Owner Ricky Perez said the fire started when the fryer was started.

Perez said he is concerned for his employees and that they cannot host the annual community Thanksgiving.

Since 2010, the restaurant has kept its Hawkins and Winnsboro locations open for the holiday to give customers without family a place to go and enjoy a free meal.