The man behind a decades-old eatery in Saanich is reflecting on his time as a restauranteur as he hands over the keys to new owners.
1550’s Pub Style Restaurant on Cedar Hill Cross Road is now closed, according to long-time owner Keith Campbell, who says the rumours are true — he’s sold the business after operating it for 30 years.
“There have been many rumours circulating in the past few months about the sale of 1550’s,” wrote Campbell in a December Facebook post. “It is time for me to pass the torch to someone else. It has been a lifetime of meeting wonderful people within our neighbourhood and making friendships that will last a lifetime.”
1550’s closed on Jan. 2 to make way for something new.
A subsequent Facebook post notes the owners of The Rack West Coast Bistro have purchased 1550’s, with plans to renovate the building, open it under the new name and offer customers “a fresh, exciting new dining experience.”
This will be the second The Rack location in Greater Victoria. There’s already one on Millstream Road in Langford known for its breakfast, lunch and dinner options, and now the owners are expanding to bring their offerings to Saanich.
“The new owners are well-versed in the restaurant business, and I truly believe that their model will be a positive one for our community,” said Campbell.
However, it wasn’t an easy decision for the restaurateur, who says owning 1550’s has come with “a lifetime of meeting wonderful people within our neighbourhood and making friendships” that he’s hopeful will last for years to come.
“I cannot thank you enough for the continued support,” said Campbell.
“Without your support, we could never have done it. From the bottom of my heart, I thank every one of our customers for the years of support,” he said, adding last month that he would “still be working at the restaurant to ensure an easy transition for the new owners, my amazing staff, and, of course, for our customers.”
The restaurant is on track to reopen on Jan. 9, “renos permitting,” they added. They say people can stay tuned to their Facebook page for updates.
“Your patience and support mean the world to us during this time. We can’t wait to unveil our fresh look and start this new chapter with you!”
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Ethan Morneau
