Fire damaged a landmark restaurant in Skokie Saturday night, and it could be weeks before it reopens.
Kaufman Bagel & Delicatessen has served been in business for more than 50 years.
Fire investigators believe a heating element malfunctioned inside the bakery while an employee was cooking, just before 2 a.m.
The worker escaped unharmed and called 911.
The deli will be closed until smoke damage can be mitigated.