An “unexplained” phenomenon occurred in the fire that destroyed the well-known Greek restaurant Eleni’s Kitchen on Anderson Street, Yaraville on Friday.

“Inexplicable” for those who don’t believe. For those who believe it was “divine intervention.”

At least that’s what Eleftheria Amanatidou believes about the phenomenon of the fire causing extensive damage to the restaurant, burning everything, but saving the photo of her great-grandfather, Father Antonis Amanatidis.

The fire still burning before it was put out by the fire brigade. Photo: Supplied

Indeed his photo, which was hanging in the much loved restaurant, miraculously remained in tact while everything else was charred.

“My family and I believe that our late grandfather intervened and thus God prevented the fire from causing even more damage,” his great-granddaughter, Eleftheria Amanatidou, told Neos Kosmos.

“This is how we explain this phenomenon. Those who don’t believe will call it a coincidence,” she added.

The late priest Antonis Amanatidis left a mark in Melbourne and especially in Yarraville.

The exterior of Eleni’s Kitchen and Bar before the fire. Photo: Eleni’s Kitchen and Bar

According to Eleftheria Amanatidou, who along with her sister Anatoli successfully run the popular Greek restaurant, the fire broke out near the kitchen and destroyed the front of the shop. “A large part became charcoal,” she told Neos Kosmos.

“Unfortunately we don’t know the cause yet. An investigation will be conducted,” continued Eleftheria.

She said their goal is to reopen the restaurant as soon as possible, but it is not known when that will happen.

Eleftheria told Neos Kosmos that the shop next door is also owned by her family but that it was not badly damaged.

The charred remains of the fire that burnt out the front of the restaurant. Photo: Supplied

“Since it became known that our restaurant was badly damaged by fire, numerous people have been calling us to support us and we thank them,” she said.

The fire brigade arrived at 5am on Friday morning at the restaurant and quickly managed to contain the fire, though significant damage had already been done.

They conducted an investigation and thankfully nobody was hurt.

Chef Christos Katopodis, standing, with yiayia Eleni and sisters Eletheria and Anatoli Amanatidis.

The fire started at Eleni’s Kitchen and Bar before spreading to the neighbouring Jimmy’s Deli owned and operated by the family.

The front windows of Eleni’s have been completely shattered and much of the interior has been damaged by fire and smoke.

Anyone who witnessed the incident, has dashcam/CCTV footage or information is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or at www.crimestoppers.com.au