Fire engulfs historic vacant restaurant in downtown San Jose
- A two-alarm fire occurred at the former Bo Town restaurant in downtown San Jose at 5:11 a.m. on Thursday.
- The building, which closed in 2019 and was previously used as an arcade, was constructed during the 1960s and features distinctive Googie architectural design.
- No injuries were reported, and plans are in place for a 30-story mixed-use development to replace the historic structure.
A significant fire incident took place early Thursday morning at the former Bo Town restaurant located at 409 South 2nd Street in downtown San Jose. The San Jose Fire Department reported the two-alarm fire at 5:11 a.m. The restaurant, which had been a popular venue for Chinese and Vietnamese seafood, closed its doors in 2019 and was most recently utilized as an arcade until January 2022. Fortunately, there were no injuries reported as a result of the fire, and the cause remains under investigation. The building was notable for its Googie architectural style, characterized by modern angles and retro-futuristic designs that were popular during the 1960s. Its distinctive zig-zag roof and neon features made it a recognizable landmark in the area. The structure was eligible for designation as a San Jose city landmark, highlighting its historical significance. In December 2022, plans were approved for a new 30-story mixed-use development to replace the historic building. The developers have committed to incorporating elements of the original design into the new project, including the iconic Bo Town freestanding sign, which will be featured outside the new development. This redevelopment reflects a broader trend in urban areas where historic buildings are often replaced with modern structures, raising discussions about preserving cultural heritage while accommodating growth and development.