Grenoble Restaurant Destroyed in Suspected Arson Attack

A restaurant in Grenoble, France, was completely destroyed by a fire early Tuesday morning, March 10, 2026, after being rammed by a vehicle that was then set ablaze. No injuries were reported, but three residents of an adjacent building were briefly evacuated.

Details of the Incident

The incident occurred around 2:00 AM at Le Phouket, located on Place Saint-Bruno in Grenoble. According to reports, a car was deliberately driven into the front of the restaurant before being ignited. The restaurant had recently relocated to Avenue Alsace-Lorraine in December 2025, and the building was in the process of being taken over by a neighboring snack bar, Cass’dal, for use as a dining area.

Fire and Evacuation

Approximately twenty firefighters responded to the scene and successfully extinguished the blaze. Whereas the restaurant itself was completely destroyed, the fire did not spread to neighboring buildings. Three residents of the building above the restaurant were evacuated as a precaution but were later allowed to return to their homes.

Vehicle and Investigation

The vehicle used in the attack was reported stolen from Lyon. Police have launched an investigation, led by the local judicial police service (SLPJ) of Grenoble, to determine the motive and identify the perpetrators. The restaurant’s former managers stated they had not received any threats.

Witness Account

A resident living above the restaurant reported hearing “a tremor” followed by “an explosion,” and then another sound believed to be from tires. Concerned about potential gunfire, the resident alerted the fire department, who responded quickly.

Sources: France Bleu, Le Dauphiné, France 3 Regions, Place Grenet