05/25/2026
Squad 62 and Ambulance 61 responded direct to the scene of this fire last night. We’re always happy to help our mutual aid partners.
NEWS RELEASE (5/25/26) South Portland Restaurant Damaged by Fire
SOUTH PORTLAND, Maine – At 8:37 PM on May 24, 2026, the South Portland Fire Department responded to Makoto Sushi Bar and Grill, located at 448 Cottage Road, for a reported fire alarm activation.
The building was occupied at the time of the incident. Those present exited when alerted to the fire. Upon arrival, crews encountered heavy smoke inside the restaurant. Firefighters quickly located a fire in the ceiling area near the kitchen exhaust hood system. The fire was extinguished promptly; however, significant damage was sustained to the kitchen and portions of the roof. No injuries were reported. The business is expected to remain closed for an extended period while repairs are completed.
Fire Chief Phil Selberg said, “Early notification from the automatic alarm system, combined with the quick response by South Portland and mutual aid crews, helped limit the extent of the damage and ensure the safety of all.”
The cause of the fire remains under investigation, though it does not appear to be suspicious in nature.
Crews from the Cape Elizabeth and Portland Fire Departments assisted at the scene. Additional station coverage was provided by the Portland and Scarborough Fire Departments.
