A Belmont deli went up in flames, sending smoke seeping into the apartments above.
The fire started inside the Belmont Gourmet Deli on Belmont Avenue and East 187th Street at around 6 a.m. Tuesday.
Officials say the blaze was quickly put under control, but the shop was left with broken glass, charred furnishings and electrical wires torn from the ceiling.
Tenants say it was a scary start to the day as they rushed to evacuate their families.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.