The renowned Franklin Barbecue suffered heavy fire damage overnight, the Austin Fire Department said early Saturday.

The fire started in the pit room adjacent to to the main dining room at Franklin, owned by James Beard Award-winning pitmaster Aaron Franklin and known for long lines and world-class brisket.

The room that houses the pits suffered “heavy damage” but firefighters were able to contain the fire, resulting only in smoke damage to the dining room and public portion of the restaurant.

Owner Aaron Franklin hopes to reopen the restaurant in a few weeks.

Officials say the cause of the fire was accidental.

Firefighters work at a fire at Franklin Barbecue on Saturday August 26, 2017.

Credit: Jay Janner

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Credit: Jay Janner

Firefighters work at a fire at Franklin Barbecue on Saturday August 26, 2017.  JAY JANNER / AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Credit: Jay Janner

icon to expand image

Credit: Jay Janner