Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Services (MCFRS) responded to a fire at KPOT Korean BBQ & Hot Pot at Montrose Crossing Shopping Center in Rockville on Wednesday night, with more than 75 firefighters working at the scene.
According to MCFRS, the fire originated in the first-floor dining area when a grease fire involving a tableside hot pot/grill ignited inside an exhaust vent and duct. The fire extended to the second floor through the ductwork, with crews working to extinguish hotspots and clear smoke.
Customers and employees evacuated the restaurant, and no injuries were reported. Damage is estimated at more than $500,000.
Code enforcement officials and health inspectors also responded to the restaurant following the fire.
Update – Montrose Crossing SC, KPOT Korean & Hot Pot Restaurant, Origin/Cause, 1st fl dining area, table side hot pot/grill, grease fire ignited in table side exhaust vent/duct; patrons & workers evacuated, no injury; Damage >$500K; code enforcement & health inspectors on scene https://t.co/q8vnKDIbeU pic.twitter.com/vcszgHYYIX
— Pete Piringer (@mcfrsPIO) October 1, 2026
