Ronald and Mark Wan took over from the previous owner in 1972, and not much has changed since. The menu has stayed the same along with the decor of the restaurant, a constant in the lives of many locals.

Ronald said this is why the restaurant has been so successful.

“Why would we change anything if it has worked for us? It’s worked for more than 40 years. People continue to come after all this time,” he said.

The brothers were in their 20s when they first moved here and Mark said they have watched generations of locals grow up throughout their time owning the restaurant.

“We’re now onto seeing the third generation of families since we bought the restaurant, it’s been a long time. We’ve seen a lot of people grow up in the community,” he said.

Mark said the customers throughout the years have been wonderful.

“All the loyal customers have been very supportive throughout the years and also now that we’re retiring, they’ve been very positive and happy for us,” he said.

Mark’s wife Mylene has also been a big part of the business, their two sons grew up in Kempsey while Ronald has coached local football for close to 40 years.

“It won’t be the same not being in the restaurant all the time, but it’s time to retire,” Ronald said.

Past and current staff threw a party for Mark and Ronald and also held one last dinner at the restaurant on Tuesday.

“We hadn’t seen some of them for 20 years, it was great to see everyone again and see what they’re up to. More than 20 people came to the dinner as well,” Mark said.

“It was nice to see everyone and they all congratulated us for all the years we’ve been here,” Ronald said.

“Our customers over the years have been very passionate and wonderful,” he added.

Both Ronald and Mark will be staying to ensure the restaurants transition over to the new owner, a local chef who has been working in the restaurant for a couple of years, is smooth.

“We want to help him and teach him the business side of it, we’re hoping he’ll keep the menu the same and we’re sure he’ll do well,” Ronald said.

Ronald and Mark are looking forward to holidaying, spending time with family and enjoying retirement. 

They both want to thank all of their staff and customers throughout the years.

“The staff have been really great, I want to thank them for working with me. And thank you to all the customers,” Mark said.

“Thank you Kempsey. We’ve made so many friends here. Thank you everyone for supporting us through the years,” Ronald said.