A casual Vancouver restaurant launched in the early weeks of the COVID-19 pandemic is saying a heartfelt goodbye to its customers after three years.
Chimec, which opened in April 2020 at 835 Denman St in the West End, managed to become a local favourite for Korean fried chicken. On Thursday evening (May 11), the business posted a closure notice on its social media feeds, offering deep thanks to its guests.
"It is with a heavy heart that we say farewell to you," reads the goodbye message. "We were warmly welcomed in the West End and pushed through three years here, but it seems our time has come to an end."
Chimec's operators continue: "We want to express our sincere gratitude to each and every one of our customers. It was an amazing privilege to serve this wonderful community and create beautiful friendships. Thank you all for your loyalty and support. We will truly miss you."
The restaurant did not elaborate on what led to the closure, however, a real estate listing indicates the business was put up for sale earlier this year.
"These guys make good chicken and go the extra mile to please their customers -- throwing in an extra piece or two, free cookies -- they care about their customers," wrote one Yelp fan just a couple of weeks ago about Chimec.
Chimec was known for its fried chicken, served by the breast and thigh, wings, and tenders, or loaded onto massive sandwiches. Sides included Caesar salad, fries and yam fries, as well as coleslaw.
"Best chicken in town!" remarked one Chimec fan on Instagram.
The closure appears to be immediate; online ordering for the restaurant is closed and the Chimec website shows the hours as being "closed" every day.
