Gavin Kaysen announced that Wayzata’s Bellecour is closing permanently.
Owner Gavin Kaysen stated that the COVID-19 pandemic and the economic fallout contributed to the closing.
Below is the letter Kaysen posted on social media:
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Dear Friends,
A little over three years ago when we opened Bellecour in the community of Wayzata, I realized a dream. I had envisioned having a French bistro and bakery since I first began cooking. The intention from the beginning was always the same, to provide delicious food and warm hospitality in a setting that would transport you to France. We’ve done that with the buttery croissants made by Chef Diane and her team, with the escargot by Chef Laurence, and with the welcoming service from our entire staff. This has never been just a restaurant to me, it has been part of my life’s work, and something I have spent over 20 years working for and towards.
As you know, the future of the hospitality profession has been rocked and will continue to be rocked by the pandemic. We have worked incredibly hard to create joy for the community and our team. In addition, over the last four months, we have done everything we can to pivot, adapt and change models in an effort to support the community, provide meaningful work for our team, and have a space to welcome you back to once again. As the days and weeks have gone by, we have realized that in a location that is so dependent on seasonal success we are losing more than we can sustain. When the pandemic came, it was just as we were gearing up for the season, and our ability to bounce back has been extremely limited.
As a result, we have come to the painful decision to close Bellecour effective immediately. The loss of this restaurant fills me with sadness and frustration, but I remain humbled by the overwhelming support from my management team and guests.
We are continuing to work hard to turn this moment into a positive and focus all of our efforts on Spoon and Stable, Demi and the Bellecour Bakery Pop Up located at Cooks of Crocus Hill in the North Loop. I want to thank each of you for your outpouring of support and for joining us at Bellecour to create lasting memories. It has been an absolute privilege to cook for you and to serve you in this space.
-Gavin Kaysen
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The announcement comes just days after it was announced that one of Bellecour’s team members recently tested positive for COVID-19.
Editor’s note: Wayzata.com asked if the current construction on Lake Street was a contributing factor to the business closure.
Bellecour’s response did not specifically address that question.
2 responses to “Wayzata’s Bellecour To Close Permanently”
So sad to learn this! I loved loved loved Bellecour! You had an amazing team there and deserve to find success as you pivot (again)!
Oh no! So very sorry hear. 😢.
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