We have decided to continue, say co-owners Katherine Corbeil and Johanne Lauzier in one voice. The two women were on the show It’s Even Better that afternoon.
It was a decision of my precious and loyal partner to retire, explains Johanne Lauzier. We are lucky to have had the same chef for over 19 years, he also wanted to slow down. I didn’t want to go on alone.
We wanted to leave room for the youngest, adds Katherine Corbeil.
Johanne Lauzier interviewed for the closure of the Bistro Sous le Fort.
Photo: Radio Canada / Felix Duchesne
The restaurant was bought by restaurateur Fabio Monti, who runs L’Atelier on Grande-Allée, according to the co-owners. The bistro will change its name, Katherine Corbeil said. We are very proud that he is, he is a credit to our profession.
This little restaurant at the foot of the funicular in Old Quebec is therefore changing hands. We’re in the loveliest part of the city, praises Katherine Corbeil.
The challenge of being a restaurant owner
Without my partner Johanne I would never have realized this dream of my own restaurant, because in this business we work a lot for others. I wouldn’t say the opportunity came on a silver platter, but there was a dynamic, relates Katherine Corbeil.
However, the two women recognize that gastronomy is not an easy environment at the moment.
There are several factors, yes there is Katherine’s retirement, but there are work issues and above all everything that is coming: the increase in the cost of groceries for example, the arrival of restaurant technology. You must be creative and inventive. But there is a good successor.
“We were the Gauls in there, a big challenge awaits the youngsters. But when you’re passionate, you don’t see challenges in the same way.”
— A quote from Johanne Lauzier
Despite the fact that it’s in a tourist area, the two employees have long struggled to attract local customers. We didn’t want it to be seen as a tourist trap and that’s a success for us.
Co-owner Katherine Corbeil interviewed for the closure of Bistro Sous le Fort.
Photo: Radio Canada / Felix Duchesne
On Sunday the reservation book is full. Loyal customers will be present in the evening to underline the history of this restaurant. We will be emotional for sure, concludes Katherine Corbeil.