A widely praised Yellowknife restaurant closed its doors on Sunday after one, last sell-out weekend.
Twin Pine Diner, operated by Robin and Karen Wasicuna, had long faced an uncertain future.
The Wasicunas, who opened the diner in July 2015, say they have no immediate plans to reopen elsewhere.
Well before the diner’s scheduled 10am opening time on Sunday, a line of eager prospective customers stretched out of its doors toward Franklin Avenue.
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The Wasicunas returned to Twin Pine Diner to see out its lease after attempting, but soon ending, a partnership with local club Harley’s earlier this year.
“After a failed attempt at growth, a new partnership, and a few hiccups early this year, we were able to move back into our little space and utilize the time left on our lease,” Robin Wasicuna wrote on the diner’s Facebook page ahead of its final weekend.
“Karen and I and our entire crew would like to thank you for the last four years. We were able to create and fulfil a lifelong dream opening Twin Pine Diner. All of our guests meant so much to us.
“The culinary scene in this town is now in good hands, so many great places to eat. Our food scene is growing and we are incredibly proud to have had a part in establishing it.
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“We are incredibly sad to go,” said Wasicuna, “but it is time. To my crew, past and present, I love all of you. You all played a part in helping us recognize our dreams.”
In response, residents said the diner would be “sorely missed,” many calling the cosy café a family favourite. It won a customer service award from the city’s chamber of commerce in 2018.
Wasicuna’s contribution to Yellowknife’s food scene is expected to live on through the addition of a downtown taco truck this summer.
“We cleaned up the beast,” he said, referring to a food truck purchased last year. “See you on the streets!”
