A popular diner is closing its doors after 55 years. The family business has been a staple of Ottawa for several generations.
At Brookfield Restaurant, Joyce Abboud has been an owner with her husband for decades.
Abaaoud took over her family business in the 1980s, but has worked there since it opened.
“It was July 1, 1967, the centennial and Canada Day,” she said. “It really was a special day and I worked that day at 12 years old.”
The restaurant serves breakfast and lunch with some Lebanese dishes on the menu. The Brookfield Road location started as a candy store and still has a storefront.
“We always welcome people when we come here and we always have conversations. It’s very much like a homey atmosphere,” said Tracy Strachan, who serves as a server and cashier at the venue.
Over the years, the restaurant has become a place for sentimental meetings.
“During the pandemic, when I couldn’t see anyone else, I could come and visit Joyce,” said Christina Lamott, a friend and client. “She takes care of everyone who walks through the door.”
Some customers have been coming to the place since the doors first opened.
“Joyce is like a sister, we grew up here,” said George Brown, who is a former councillor. “It is sad but understandable why Joyce is resting and it is good news that she is being transferred to another independent community, but we need community meeting places.”
After 55 years in business, Abboud says it’s time for a new chapter.
“I have other things to do,” Abaaoud said. “I have four young grandchildren and two daughters and a wonderful husband so I really want to spend more time with them and I find the shop takes up too much of my time.”
The location will be transformed into another restaurant offering Greek food. Abaaoud’s last day is January 31.
“We’re going to miss the heroes, you know all the people that came,” Abaaoud said. “The friends we’ve made, it’s a real hangout.”
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