08/24/2016
It is with great regret that I announce the end of an extraordinary culinary and social adventure here at Restaurant Le Cartier/Pub St-Malo.
I arrived here three years ago with the goal of promoting and advancing the gourmet raw food food approach here in the Eastern Townships, prioritizing gluten and dairy free menus (and of course the healthy anti-inflammatory approach of Dr. Jean Seignalet). I believe that we achieved just that, and will look back on these three years as some of the most creative and exciting experiences we can have in the restaurant world....challenging the status quo and being avant-gardiste.
If I could have continued with this exciting project, I would have done so. However, the administrative costs (as a tenant) were way above and beyond that which the restaurant could sustain, given the slight downturn in the economy, and the restaurant industry as a whole. Unfortunately there was no possibility of reducing these costs.
With the help of many dedicated employees as well as the support of our much loved clientele (most of whom were regulars), I saw an exponential increase in the demand for these dishes since the day I started. None of this could have been achieved without the hard work and a passion for healthy 'real' food of the kitchen team, led by the talented Erick Bond (and Fred Lavoie in charge of the raw and vegan menus these past three years). We almost always forget the role of the dishwashers, without whom (trust me) nothing would function. Antoine D and Rami S, for service beyond the call of duty....thank you! My profound thanks to all of you for everything.
For those service staff who gave their all, led most recently by the smiling and extraordinary Antoine Gagnon (floor manager).....thank you for your passion for your art and team work despite the challenges of this difficult industry where, in the space of 15 minutes, it is possible for a smooth, enjoyable evening can turn to 'the night from hell' :)
To those dedicated people 'behind the scenes'... Francois L, Mymy, Marte, Bertrand and Etienne, you have also made it possible for us to be the best we could for our clients. Thank you, and good luck for the future.
Deepest gratitude to our suppliers, especially those small, local and eco-responsible entrepreneurs who believe in the mission of 'real food'. This partnership was essential to what we were doing here at Le Cartier, and I very much regret the unexpected end to this part of the adventure.
To my dear patient family, which has supported and encouraged me daily, all my love and gratitude.
And finally, to all the wonderful people who have passed through our doors, shared with us this vision of conscious food, supported us in so many ways...and became our larger family....thank you from the bottom of my heart. We will never forget the magical moments on the terrace, nor the passionate debates over a glass of organic wine, nor the way you opened up your heart to us.
It is my intention to continue with my workshops, courses, consultations and love of conscious food.......the adventure continues!
Namasté
Veronica
