Demolition of fire-collapsed Shoto and Candy Factory in Lexington, NC, to start August 3

Demolition of Shoto Japanese Steakhouse and Seafood and The Candy Factory in Uptown Lexington, North Carolina, is set to start August 3, following a May 19 fire that collapsed both buildings. Because the structures are unsafe to enter, standard asbestos assessments have been replaced by additional state permitting, and crews will first install bracing and fencing before visible teardown work begins. Owner Stephanie Huynh has accepted a demolition bid and hopes to rebuild within two years; Shoto plans a food truck in mid-August at the Brewer's Kettle.