HURON, Ohio - Traffic was tied up near the Huron House Restaurant late Thursday as fire consumed the well-established eatery.

Huron firefighters responded to an emergency call at 11:34 p.m. and found the restaurant engulfed in flames, Fire Chief John Zimmerman said.

The adjoining Clarion Inn was evacuated and had moderate smoke, heat, and water damage, but the building was saved. Chief Zimmerman said a cause has not been determined. Arson has been ruled out. There were no injuries.

The Huron House Restaurant, still known around town as the "Old Twine House," was independently managed. Local resident Ralph Ruta owned the building.

First Published December 30, 2000, 12:57 p.m.