“I’ve never seen anything like it,” said the woman,who has been living in the building for several years. She said the foyer was filled with thick smoke as she rushed outside the building with her young son.

“It was terrifying last night,” she said. “I don’t know that I’ll sleep the next few nights.”

Police have taped off the deck around the restaurant,which was badly damaged,and uniformed officers were standing guard outside on Monday morning.

The blackened interior of the venue could be seen from the footpath through several shattered glass doors,which were hanging off their hinges. The floor was littered with charred debris and upturned tables.

Anyone who witnessed the incident,with CCTV/dashcam footage or information that could assist investigators are urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 orwww.crimestoppersvic.com.au

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