The blaze has spread to the neighboring building.

Minneapolis fire crews are at the scene of a blaze at a building that houses a popular Northeast Minneapolis restaurant.

The fire broke out just after 5 p.m. on the second floor of 2412 Central Ave. NE., in the apartment above El Taco Riendo.

The fire developed into a four alarm emergency, with firefighters having to exit the building an assume a defensive position from outside.

The fire also spread to the neighboring building, 2408 Central, which is home to the National Association of Letter Carriers. Other businesses on the block include Costa Blanco Bistro and Anelace Coffee.

The picture above was taken by state Sen. Kari Dziedzic, who represents NE Minneapolis and simply wrote: "This is so sad."

Nobody was inside the building at the time the fire broke out.

Mayor Jacob Frey has also been commented on the fire, saying: "Gut-wrenching news in the heart of Northeast on top of an already tough week. Beyond grateful for the heroic response from our Minneapolis firefighters.

"Their work to keep people safe during this pandemic has been, and will continue to be, indispensable."