Getting down to business

Rip & Richard's recently received an award for its business lunches

The summer staff at Rip & Richard's provided service with a smile. — Vanessa Croome photo

The new owners of restaurant Rip & Richard's in Fernie are Claude and Lillis Perreault. Their company CP Catering (the same that bought Rip & Richard's) won the 2011 Fernie Entrepreneur of the Year Award. Lillis had a chat with Kootenay Business about their successful venture.

How long have you had the business?

We bought it in June of 2011.

What is your background?

We have been in the hospitality industry for 20-plus years. Claude and I met in Fernie and formed CP Catering in 2008. We have been running the food and beverage department at Fernie Golf and Country Club and Corner Pocket Brasserie at Fernie Alpine Resort.

What do you enjoy about Rip & Richard's?

We looked at this location when we came to Fernie. It came up for sale at a reasonable price this spring. The location is fantastic. It is just beside the river with views of the Lizard Range. It is good for business.

To what do you credit your success?

Hard work and great staff.

Why does your establishment suit business lunches?

We have always tried to serve our food in a timely manner. It was a bit of a struggle at first but I believe that we have nailed it down now. We understand that by the time our guests come in the door, they might only have another 45 minutes before they need to head the other way, so our goal is to be able to serve our customers in a timely manner for lunch. In the summer, it is a bit different. The patio is a great location. People love the flowers that we put out there. We will do everything in our power to serve as fast as we can.

What is your favourite menu item?

Rotisserie chicken.

What does the name mean?

It was the previous owner's name. It has been Rip & Richard's for the last 17 years. We have a name suggestion competition this month and are hoping to get some help from the community to find a new name for our venture.

Can you tell me about the upcoming renovations?

We will make some changes to the inside such as colours, lighting and seating. In April next year there is more to come. We open in December, and will feature our rotisserie chicken, ribs, steaks and other new items from all around the globe.