Vernon's Outboard Waterfront Pub not renewing lease, won't open in spring

Photo: Facebook

A favourite lakeside Vernon watering hole and restaurant won't be reopening the doors in the spring.

The Outboard Waterfront Pub closed for the season in September, but management posted on its Facebook page this week that they will not be renewing their lease.

"We would like to share with our amazing customers and community that our lease is up at the Outboard, and for a handful of reasons, we have decided not to renew it," the owners wrote.

"We have been so fortunate to work with enthusiastic and talented employees, suppliers and community partners over the years, and they all have our gratitude for their contribution in making the Outboard such a special place.

"Most of all, an enormous thank you to our customers whose support, feedback and often, friendship, has meant so much to us and our team."

Owners Anne and Campbell added: "We are not sure what the future holds for the location, but we sure hope that something great moves in, since we would really look forward to enjoying a seat on the patio as guests, where we’ve had the utmost pleasure of serving so many of you over the years."

Outboard gift cards can be redeemed at the owners' other restaurants, which include Diner on Six in Vernon and Norman’s Diner and Turtle Bay Pub in Lake Country.

As the Outboard closed for the season in September, management thanked staff and customers for their support through the pandemic.

"The past couple of years have presented challenges for all of us, and restaurant workers are no exception. We’ve seen team members endure some unacceptable abuse during this pandemic, but the silver lining has been in those individuals that have come into our establishment with nothing but good intentions.

"Our staff deserve a tremendous amount of thanks and praise for bringing their best efforts to work despite the stresses that a pandemic, a national restaurant labour shortage and a horrific wildfire season have brought to their lives."