A fire has destroyed a popular diner and pub in Halifax's north end.

Staff at the North End Diner on Gottingen Street were cleaning up after the lunchtime rush on Wednesday when someone smelled smoke.

The entire building was soon engulfed in flames and thick clouds of smoke billowed over the area.

There were no reports of injuries.

A nearby apartment building was evacuated as firefighters tried to prevent the blaze from spreading. Tenants were told they would be able to head home Wednesday night.

As people waited in the bitter cold, the Salvation Army arrived with soup and blankets. Later, Metro Transit buses were brought in to provide shelter from the icy wind. 

The restaurant was a fixture in the north end for decades. It used to be known as Camille's Fish and Chips and Comeau's Tavern, and the recipe of good and inexpensive food made it a popular hangout.

Coun. Patrick Murphy, who represents the area, said Halifax has lost a landmark.

Fire officials said the cause of the fire was still to be determined.