05/01/2024
Yep, the post that every business owner fears they'll have to make one day, is upon us. It still feels surreal to say out loud, but Bear & Joey will have its last service this Sunday, May 5th, exactly 4 years after its opening.
We'll spare the factors out of our control; the crippling effects of COVID on a new, unsupported business, the economy, the costs of well, everything, and instead take the opportunity to highlight and thank the many people who helped create our little hub of energy- those on both sides of the counter.
Victoria welcomed our concept and team with open arms, and the continued support has been overwhelming. Having owned four restaurants now, I've never witnessed such a kind, well-wishing community show so much love and support, for such a mixed bag of people, just showing up to do what they love- Hospitality.
Our people (past and present) have been the fabric of Bear & Joey, and I've been so privileged to work alongside them for the past 4 years. They are our everything and have been so supportive, caring and creative at every turn along the way. I am so incredibly grateful for them and forever proud of their professionalism and grace. Our children grew up at Bear & Joey and I believe much of their early development is thanks to our warm, loving and patient team, who would go out of their way to connect with them. Steph and I will be forever indebted to you for this and thank you to no end.
Reflecting on these 4 years, operating a new restaurant has been, well, triage. There have been periods of thick, unrelenting darkness, tears of anguish, daily knots in my stomach, crippling self-doubt, all the while balanced with excitement and pure hospitality bliss.
As a team, we've been invited into people's daily lives, and view that as such an incredible privilege. We've shared in people's victories and helped shoulder tough times. We've watched families expand, kids grow, and grieve the loss of loved ones. The wonderful connections, and relationships we've made will continue, and be forever cherished, by our whole team.
It's a tough pill to swallow, knowing that if our timing was just a little better, and we got just a little bit of help during COVID, things would have been different. Bit of a "shoulda, coulda, woulda" sort of deal I guess. I do find peace, in believing things happen for a reason, so I patiently await this light bulb moment...
In the meantime, we are taking a breather, and cheering on our industry peers from the sidelines. Whilst I already miss our team, our community, and the buzz of 1025 Cook Street, I look forward to being more present at home and making up for some missed moments with my wife and children.
From the bottom of my heart, thank you to everyone who made Bear & Joey what it is. We couldn't have done it without you xx
Pete, Steph, McKenzie, Ledger & the Bear & Joey Team
