Duke’s Owner Shocked by Unprecedented Restaurant Blaze: “I’ve Never Seen Anything Like This”

On March 8, 2025, a fire ignited at Duke’s Roadhouse in Maricopa just before its anticipated opening. The incident occurred around 10 p.m. when flames erupted from a trashcan, though the cause—potentially a weld spark or a discarded cigarette—remains under investigation.

Steve Kovach, the restaurant’s owner, expressed his concerns. “I’ve had restaurant fires before, but none like this,” he stated. Fortunately, thanks to the building’s unique metal structure, damage was minimized; Kovach noted that conventional construction would have resulted in a much worse outcome.

Interestingly, Kovach was only days away from installing fire sprinklers and a custom door. Had those systems been operational, the damage could have escalated significantly, complicating the cleanup with hazardous fire retardants.

In a twist of fate, the fire allowed the City of Maricopa to test the fire hydrant pressure located outside the restaurant. Despite the inconvenience, the good news is that no substantial damage occurred, and the planned opening remains on track.

Kovach estimates Duke’s will open in approximately six weeks, although specifics are still being finalized. Previously, he launched The Stillery in Goodyear, offering a Nashville-themed dining experience with a focus on food, cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere complete with live music and line dancing.