Whitehorse, YT – Cara Millar and Brian Charmin’s decision to purchase a beloved downtown restaurant was the culmination of months of deep contemplation and planning.
Klondike Rib and Salmon closed their doors last summer after Donna Novecosky, the previous owner, retired after some long-time employees also decided to leave.
The over 120-year-old building then sat empty until Millar’s love of the building and Charmin’s love of cooking led the duo to reach out to Novecosky to purchase the restaurant.
“This building always called to me, I love this building. It just feels like home. The only thing it’s missing right now is a whole bunch of laughter, and conversation,” said Millar. “And food,” added Charmin with a chuckle.
Although the new owners were stressed over the whirlwind speed of the transition, they credit Novecosky with helping them by sharing her detailed knowledge of the restaurant.
After receiving the keys on June 6th, the new owners have been cleaning up and reorganizing while ordering supplies and hiring staff. Charmin, who will serve as the head chef, noted that they’ve mostly filled their positions and have a staff of long-time restaurant veterans and brand-new kitchen converts.
While maintaining classic menu items like ribs, salmon and halibut and chips Charmin plans to introduce a few new menu items he’s made at other places. The key menu addition? A Bison Shepherd’s Pie.
A photo of Klondike Kate is proudly displayed amongst a collection of eclectic decor in the restaurant. Photo Courtesy of Macklen Linke/CKRW.
Although there are a few small tweaks to the menu, one thing is certain: the eclectic decor and charm inside the restaurant will remain.
“Oh no, we’re not changing a darn thing! No, no, no, no, are you kidding me? The ghosts would kill us,” Millar joked.
Due to the building’s lack of insulation and heating, Klondike Rib and Salmon will continue to operate seasonally with Millar saying it would be, “really unpleasant at 40 below in December.”
Despite the seasonal limitations the duo hopes to have their operating season last as long as possible, serving patrons from May to September.
As Millar and Charmin look towards the final days ahead towards their reopening on Friday, June 21st, they ask Whitehorse to keep their minds open and mouths hungry.
“We just ask people to give us a chance. Be kind, you know?” Cara adds, “We want this place to be what everybody wants it to be.”
June 19th Update: The new owners have since had to push the reopening past the June 21st date due to unforeseen circumstances. They apologize for any inconvenience.
