In a shocking turn of events, Sea Glass Waterfront Grill in Sidney has permanently closed its doors after more than a decade of serving delicious meals. The announcement came from the owners, Ann Lockley and Zach Vincent, who cited skyrocketing operating costs as a primary reason for this heartbreaking decision.

The popular eatery, located at the picturesque Van Isle Marina, has been a cherished spot for locals and tourists alike. “It’s a decision that came with heavy hearts,” Lockley shared in a heartfelt social media post. In an age where inflation is reshaping dining experiences, she emphasized that "Sea Glass is not alone — all restaurants are struggling." Lockley pointed out that, without significant changes, it might not be long before a burger and fries costs over $30.

Lockley and Vincent, who took over the restaurant from Ron and Maureen Vincent in September 2022, explained that their costs have exploded, increasing three-fold since their arrival. “We could raise our prices, but we don't feel right charging what we’d have to even break even,” she wrote, reflecting a sentiment echoed in many establishments across the country.

The restaurant's permanent closure is part of a troubling trend on the Saanich Peninsula. Just a stone's throw away, Café Zanzibar in Brentwood Bay is scheduled to close its doors for good on December 31, and Blue’s Bayou Café, which has been in business for 25 years, is also shutting down. The situation raises serious questions about the future of dining options in the region.

Recent data from Restaurants Canada paints a bleak picture for the restaurant industry. A staggering 70% of restaurants reported a drop in guest counts compared to the previous summer, while 81% experienced lower profitability. The report suggests that only 15% of restaurant owners feel the current business climate is favorable. The CEO of Restaurants Canada, Kelly Higginson, warned that without political action addressing affordability and operational costs, the outlook for restaurants remains grim.

Lockley expressed gratitude in her farewell post, thanking patrons who celebrated memorable moments such as birthdays, anniversaries, and even weddings at Sea Glass. As she navigates through this closure and the end of her partnership with Vincent after ten years, she remains hopeful for the future of their beloved community. “We are working to ensure our staff is taken care of and making plans for any leftover perishable food. Gift card details will be announced soon!” she reassured fans.

With the closure of Sea Glass Grill, not only is the community saying goodbye to a local favorite, but it serves as a stark reminder of the difficulties restaurant owners face in maintaining their businesses amidst rising costs and changing consumer habits. This sudden closure leaves many wondering: What will happen next in Sidney's dining scene? Will more beloved restaurants follow suit, or can the community rally together to support local businesses? Only time will tell!