PLATTSBURG, Mo. -- A fire destroyed Bert & Ernie’s Restaurant, one of the oldest and most well-known spots for food and entertainment in the town.

Flames were shooting into the air when firefighters arrived at the scene just after 6 a.m., they said.

There wasn't much they could do, firefighters said, but wait for backup and make sure the blaze didn't spread.

Firefighters from nine fire departments from surrounding cities helped contain the blaze.

The fire started in the kitchen, said Plattsburg Fire Chief John Hesson.

It may have been electrical, but officials were still investigating, Hesson said.