Landmark CT Restaurant Destroyed In Fire: VIDEO

TORRINGTON, CT — Firefighters battled a blaze that ravaged a landmark restaurant Thursday morning. The fire broke out at Marino's Restaurant on Pinewoods Road, near Winsted Road, and was called in at 8:56 a.m.

"When our first two engines got there, there was already extensive fire coming through the roof," Torrington Fire Department Battalion Chief David Casper told Patch.

The owner of the restaurant was inside when the fire started, Casper said, but got out on his own. One firefighter incurred minor injuries from a fall, but no burns were suffered.

The Torrington and State fire marshals are working together to determine the cause. One engine from TFD is still onsite assisting the marshals.

If you're not familiar with Marino's Restaurant it has been in business since 1957 and is known as a "place for neighborhood respite, bringing friends and family together to enjoy good times and food."

The eatery services lunch and dinner. "Our fondest memories of growing up in an Italian-American family are of the holiday celebrations around the dinner table and going to Grandma’s house for Sunday dinner. Today lifestyles are busy and hectic with little time to cook, so let our chef be your solution for effortless at-home entertaining...

"Chris and Cheryl are the second-generation brother and sister team now carrying on the family tradition. The enduring philosophy of using fresh quality ingredients, creating a warm and congenial atmosphere, emphasis on personal service and consistency has been the hallmark of our success. Marino’s Restaurant has become a mainstay for rehearsal dinners, wedding receptions, bridal and baby showers, corporate functions and special occasion celebrations," according to the restaurant's website.

The restaurant has been host to many memorable moments for families across the region.

"We had the best time at Marino’s. We celebrated my parents 50th Anniversary party there. A+. Great Staff, Great Food!!!," one reviewer said.

Another person posted, "Wow and amazing restaurant, great food, the salad bar is great full of fresh veggies and they make an amazing pasta salad so yummy I wish I could get they recipe. The waitress was friendly, attentive and really nice."