TOPEKA, Kan. — Fire crews responded Tuesday afternoon to reports of smoke coming from the second floor of a downtown Kansas Avenue building, just above the former location of Olive Café–Bodega.
Photos from the scene show multiple firefighters climbing ladders and entering a second-story window as smoke poured from the structure. Crews appeared to be conducting an interior search and ventilation effort, a standard response when smoke is visible but flames are not immediately confirmed from the exterior.
At this time, no official report has been released regarding the cause of the fire or whether any injuries occurred.
What’s Above the Bodega?
There are indications that the upper level of the building may have previously housed office space, including what some believe was a law office. It’s not uncommon for downtown Kansas Avenue buildings to have mixed-use layouts, with commercial storefronts on the ground level and offices or residential units above—conditions that can complicate fire response and ventilation.
What Is a Bodega?
For readers unfamiliar with the term, a bodega is typically a small, neighborhood market or café, often family-owned, that serves as both a convenience store and a quick-stop food spot. In larger cities, bodegas are known for being community hubs—places where people grab coffee, sandwiches, or essentials while catching up with familiar faces.
That same spirit existed here in Topeka.
A Community Fixture: Tony Mashaal
Tony Mashaal, Olive Cafe; photos by Channa Steinmetz, Startland News
The Olive Café–Bodega was operated by Tony Mashaal, a well-known local business owner who also runs Tony’s Gas Station on 6th Street. Mashaal built a reputation not just for his Mediterranean cuisine, but for his deep connection to the community.
As previously reported, Mashaal brought authentic flavors from across the Mediterranean to downtown Topeka, drawing from his upbringing and travels across countries like Turkey, Greece, and Egypt .
But beyond the food, it’s his actions that stand out.
- He has been known to keep Narcan behind the counter, ready to respond to overdoses
- He’s consistently described as someone who looks out for people, no questions asked
- His approach to business has always centered on community first, profit second
The Kansas Avenue location closed its doors in November of last year, but its impact—and Tony’s presence in Topeka—remains.
What We Know Right Now
- Fire crews responded to visible smoke on the second floor
- Entry was made through windows via ladder
- The building sits above the former Olive Café–Bodega space
- Cause and extent of damage are not yet confirmed
Developing Story
This is a developing situation. If you were in the area or have additional information, photos, or video, reach out:
[email protected]
All sources are kept confidential.
As always, we’ll update this story as more details are confirmed.
