BEFORE AND AFTER | Corner Pocket at the Griz Inn

Claude and Lillis Perreault were the proprietors at the Grand Central Hotel for eight years. The lease ended in April 2008.

Claude Perreault, born in Quebec, came to Fernie in 1995. After running the HI-3 Lodge with his business partner Peter for two winters, Claude decided to take on the challenge of running the hotel side of The Grand Central with is Swedish wife Lillis in the summer of 2000. In the summer of 2001 the opportunity of taking over the bar and the restaurant at The Central presented itself and the couple decided to go for it. With the help of an amazing staff throughout the years, and consistent and a supportive client base, The Central quickly became an evening landmark in Fernie.

Once their lease was finished at The Central, Claude and Lillis had some choices to make. There was an opening to run the food and beverage part of The Fernie Golf & Country Club, and with their experience and following they decided to pursue this operation during the summer months. After a busy summer, they felt the need for an addition during the winter season. That is when the Griz Inn opportunity became an attractive option for the team.

Claude and Lillis’s long time kitchen manager, Fredrik Bergkvist, became a partner in the business during this transition. Fredrik has close to 20 years of experience in the hospitality industry, including his six years as kitchen manager at The Central working with Claude and Lillis. This change has allowed the team the ability to offer year round employment for some of the staff that has been with them for a long period of time on a seasonal basis - a very significant aspect of their move to the ski hill.

While Claude and Lillis miss the days of The Central, the move has been a positive step towards the lifestyle they are aiming towards. Having said that, the busy lunch and relaxed dinner crowd is a huge change from the late night bar scene that was their life for many years at The Central.

While their location has changed, Claude, Lillis and Fredrick endeavor to retain their local support by working hard to build the après ski component of the business and continuing to offer a venue for live musicians in Fernie.

The space at the Griz Inn offers a lot of opportunities for the team. They are working hard to increase the number of bigger events they can accommodate, and having two large capacity restaurants that complement each other seasonally is an added bonus.

When did you your lease begin at this location?

We began leasing the space in the Griz Inn
December 1, 2008.

What was your ultimate goal, renovation wise?

Our goal was to make a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere where our local supporters and visitors would feel welcome and at home. Also, we wanted to keep renovations at a reasonable cost.

What was the renovation process like, and what was the time frame?

At times very stressful as you can easily open up a can of worms. There was much more to it than we expected. The building had been almost unused for one and a half years, which probably added a lot to the renovation process. We wanted to open at the same time the hill opened and were two weeks behind!

How would you describe the design style you used?

A modern European style while not too exclusive looking.

Is there anything you would have done differently?

As first time “builders” we learned that we should have sat down with all trades prior to beginning the project. Checking all appliances, making sure we had the capacity with power and plumbing. Kitchen renovations are extremely expensive. Many surprises and unexpected costs were added to our plan and budget.

Ultimately were you pleased with the final result?

We are very happy with the result, but would love to answer this question again in March!

What value do you think this renovation has added to the space?

We hope it increases business and makes it more attractive for larger events, at the same time being a cozy location for patrons to return to for their favourite meal!

What is one renovation/design rule you live for?

Do not let colours scare you. They add so much to the space and are always easy to change. Comfort! It allows people to feel at home while away!