A popular Edmonton-area restaurant will remain open, thanks to an anonymous benefactor stepping forward at the eleventh hour.
Since announcing it would close at the end of September, French-Canadian fine dining spot Chartier in Beaumont has seen a deluge of supporters fill the restaurant's reservation books and tables.
"The response from this community has blown us away," Chartier owners Sylvia and Darren Cheverie wrote on social media this week. "We even had to call in support from folks in the restaurant industry, the community and Chartier alumni."
Because of being fully-booked through September, the Cheverie's add they are able to pay all staff and vendors and have now been given a lifeline--an anonymous investor from Beaumont--that means the restaurant can keep moving forward.
"It's a powerful demonstration of faith in the connected strength of this wonderful community," read the post.
Hundreds of followers have commented on the restaurant's Facebook page following the announcement, with words of thanks and encouragement.
"I’m so happy you’re continuing on. My husband and I had our wedding dinner at the restaurant in 2016. Best decision we made for our wedding. The photos and memories always bring back the flavours," wrote one follower. "Best news ever! Brought tears," said another.
The restaurant will close as scheduled after Sept. 30, not for good but for a rest, cleaning and re-set of the menu, based on customer feedback over the last six weeks, wrote the owners.
Doors are set to re-open at Chartier Restaurant at the end of October.
