For anyone who's ever gone to a show at Lee's Palace and gotten the late-night munchies afterwards, New Generation Sushi is always THE place to go.

But a recent fire at the Annex sushi spot now leaves loyal customers without their friendly banter with staff and not to mention favourite spicy salmon rolls and yam tempura. And they're showing their love with many signatures on posters taped to the restaurant's window.

Co-owner Charles Zhou explains over the phone that the blaze sparked in the kitchen on Dec. 16 at around 4 a.m. No one was working at the time. Right now, investigators are still trying to figure out how the fire went down and how much the damage will cost.

"We hopefully will re-open in a couple of months because the dining room and kitchen need to be entirely rebuilt," says a wistful Zhou. "Still, a lot of customers care. Look at the signs; that in itself is a good sign."

He says he recommends his staff to seek Employment Insurance or look for other jobs in the meantime. A sad end to 2005, but with any luck, 2006 will be brighter for New Generation Sushi.

New Generation Sushi is located at 493 Bloor Street W., just east of Bathurst. To send your support, you can e-mail them at NewGenerationSushi@NewGenerationSushi.com