Controversial bikini-themed Kamloops eatery closes

Photo: Glacier Media

The Teenie Bikini Bistro — a controversial restaurant that opened in Kamloops in late May — has shuttered its doors.

The establishment has been criticized for asking staff to wear bikinis or one-piece swimsuits.

A note on the door reads "closed for renos."

Owner Leeann McArthur confirmed she has closed the eatery due to "family emergencies."

In an earlier interview, McArthur said she had been thinking about opening the restaurant for a couple of years, after seeing the success of chains like Hooters.

"I had heard that there was a bikini coffee shop in the States and then I realized there was nothing even like that in Alberta or B.C., so I just decided to finally do it," she said.

At this time, it's unclear if the business will reopen.