A massive fire in London has destroyed about 14 businesses and caused millions of dollars in damage.

The fire at 1700 Hyde Park Rd. started outside Porcino Restaurant late Thursday afternoon and quickly spread.

Police closed Hyde Park Road from Gainsborough Road to Fanshawe Park Road and urged people to avoid the area.

The plaza is a fixture in the area - had businesses such as a paint store and piano business.

It is estimated that the grand pianos destroyed are worth millions alone.

Jennifer Snitch owns a travel agency in the plaza. "Quite a few tears. Not so much yesterday, but when we came here and saw our livelihood is gone, it's heartbreaking," says Snitch.

Tyler Arndt was working in the restaurant when the fire started. He says 25 people were inside at the time.

"Around 6:30 I was just putting some pans away. One of the waiters, who was having a smoke, came in and said there is a fire out back. So, we all exited the building," says Arndt.

Smoke from the extensive blaze could be seen from far away and sent people to social media to share information.

The Fire Marshal's Office has been called in to investigate. A cause has yet to be determined.