Tragedy Strikes as Belleview’s Biggest Restaurant Burns Down…

Belleview, FL — June 1, 2025 — Tragedy has struck the heart of Belleview as the city’s most beloved and largest restaurant, The Southern Fork, was completely destroyed in a devastating overnight fire. Known for its warm hospitality, iconic Southern cuisine, and as a gathering place for families, the restaurant was a staple of the Belleview community for more than 25 years.

The fire broke out around **2:45 a.m.**, and by the time emergency crews arrived, the blaze had already engulfed most of the building. Despite the swift response of multiple fire departments from Marion County, the flames spread rapidly due to strong winds and the older wooden structure of the restaurant.

By dawn, the structure was reduced to smoldering rubble, with only the charred frame of the main dining hall still standing. Firefighters spent nearly four hours working to fully contain and extinguish the fire.

It’s a total loss,” said Belleview Fire Chief Thomas Granger. “This was one of the most aggressive structural fires we’ve seen in years. Thankfully, no one was inside at the time of the incident, and there were no injuries reported.”

Initial investigations suggest the fire may have started in the kitchen area, but the exact cause is still under investigation by the State Fire Marshal’s Office. Arson has not been ruled out, though officials say it is too early to draw any conclusions.

The Southern Fork wasn’t just a restaurant — it was an institution. Owned and operated by the **Wilkes family since 1999, it was a favorite for birthdays, wedding receptions, and Sunday brunches. The restaurant employed more than 40 local residents and could seat over 200 guests at full capacity.

Locals gathered near the site throughout the day, watching with tears in their eyes and sharing memories of family meals and celebrations. One longtime customer, Margaret Fields, described the loss as “heartbreaking.

This place was part of our lives. My husband proposed to me here. We brought our grandkids every weekend. Belleview will never be the same without it.

The Wilkes family, visibly emotional but deeply touched by the community’s response, spoke briefly at a press conference held outside the ruins of the restaurant.

We are absolutely devastated,” said Lisa Wilkes co-owner and daughter of the original founder. “This was more than just a business — it was our family’s passion, and the people of Belleview made it special. We don’t know what comes next, but we’re grateful no lives were lost.

Since news of the fire broke, community members have flooded social media with messages of support, shared stories, and photos taken over the years. A local fundraising campaign was launched within hours, aiming to support employees who are now suddenly out of work and to assist the family in potential rebuilding efforts.

While the future of The Southern Fork remains uncertain, there is a strong desire from both the owners and the community to see the beloved restaurant rise again. City officials have offered full support in aiding the investigation and any future reconstruction efforts.

We will do everything in our power to help the Wilkes family recover and rebuild,” said **Mayor Carla Jenkins**. The Southern Fork was part of our identity, and we believe it can be again.”

As Belleview begins to heal from this tragic loss, the community’s strength, unity, and love for its local heritage continue to shine through the smoke and ashes. More details will be shared as the investigation progresses.