End of an era for Chez Yvonne’s, Cavendish restaurant

**Longtime Cavendish restaurant Chez Yvonne’s listed for sale after 58 years**

**CAVENDISH, P.E.I.** – Chez Yvonne’s, a seasonal restaurant in Cavendish, has been placed on the market after 58 years of continuous family ownership.

Owners Paul and Linda Larkin, who purchased the business from Paul’s parents 38 years ago, stated that they are looking to retire to spend more time with their family.

“It’s just time,” Paul Larkin said during an interview on Sept. 2. “At our age, your health can change drastically.”

The couple noted that they approached their three adult children about taking over the business, but all three have established careers elsewhere and declined to take on the seasonal operation.

Despite the listing, the Larkins emphasized that they have no intention of closing the restaurant. They plan to continue operations until a buyer is found. “We’ll run it for the next 10 years if that’s what it takes,” Linda Larkin said, though Paul noted that timeline may be flexible.

The sale comes with no stipulations regarding the future of the business, allowing new owners to make any changes they see fit. However, the Larkins expressed a hope that the restaurant’s signature menu items—specifically its turkey dinners, club sandwiches, and hot turkey sandwiches—remain.

To ensure the business remains in good condition for a future buyer, Paul Larkin said he has continued to invest in upgrades. Recent improvements include a $20,000 heating system, $2,500 in new freezers, new flooring, and additional seating.

“When the new owner does come along, everything that needed to be done is done,” Paul said. “I won’t be passing on the troubles to the next guy.”

The Larkins credited their success to a dedicated staff, some of whom have worked at the restaurant for decades. They also highlighted the support received from the provincial government during the COVID-19 pandemic, which they said was essential to the restaurant’s survival.

Reflecting on their tenure, the couple noted that while the sale is “bittersweet,” they remain focused on the daily operations of the restaurant for the remainder of the season.

Article and image source: saltwire.com