Around Back Bat - Lower Burrell

Yesterday, around back cafe closed its doors for good in its current location. This unpublished evaluation provides a historical perspective on the decline of the restaurant. Originally opened in 2006 by Gary and Janee Wislie, the cafe was known for its energetic atmosphere, friendly staff, and unique menu offerings. However, after being sold to the Meyer family in 2011, the quality of the food and service began to decline. The once vibrant bar became lackluster, with unhappy and stressed staff. The closure during the COVID-19 pandemic further alienated its loyal customer base. While the drink selection remains good, the inconsistent food quality and high prices have deterred customers. The current operational model seems unsustainable, leading to early closures and a lack of the former lively ambiance. Despite its downfall, the review suggests that with the right changes, a future entrepreneur could revitalize the cafe and bring it back to its former glory at a new location.

Today, Around Back Cafe closed its doors for good at its current location. I never posted this review until now, but here it is: Not sure what's happening with this place. Over the years, it seems like the owners have let it deteriorate. It's a shell of its former self, with only a few loyal employees hanging on. If Around Back Cafe moves to the Kings location, it's game over. They won't have the same loyal customer base or the same charm that made it one of the best bar restaurants in the area. As someone who frequented Around Back Cafe before 2014 and occasionally since then, I can say that it used to be a vibrant spot with delicious, home-cooked food and a welcoming atmosphere. However, since the ownership change in 2011, things have declined. The menu has shifted towards more typical bar food, and the once-friendly staff now seem unhappy and stressed. The closure during COVID may have been a misstep, as many loyal customers have disappeared, and the quality and consistency of the food has wavered. The move to the Kings location may be a last-ditch effort, but I doubt it will recapture the magic of the original spot. To any future entrepreneurs looking to revive the spirit of Around Back Cafe, consider getting a liquor license and focusing on good drinks and home-cooked meals in a welcoming setting. We're all rooting for their success, but it won't be easy to recreate the atmosphere and charm of the original location.

I am not sure what is happening with this place. I will provide some historical context below, but it seems like the owners over the past few years have allowed this establishment to deteriorate. It is a mere shadow of its former self. Almost everything has changed, with only a couple of employees holding on. If Around Back Cafe moves to the King's location, it will mark the end of an era. There is little chance they will maintain the same loyal customer base or recapture the magic that made it one of the best bar restaurants in the area. Moving a few miles away will only result in a decline in quality. I used to frequent Around Back Cafe regularly before 2014, and occasionally from 2014 onwards. I visited several times in the past few months when I was back in town, and caught up with friends who are regulars. I want to offer this review from a historical perspective to make a few key points: The cafe was opened in 2006 by Gary and Janee Wislie. Initially, it was unmatched in the area in terms of atmosphere, fun, food, and friendly faces from both staff and patrons. The menu offered a range of dishes not typical of a bar, with items like stuffed banana peppers, calamari, peel and eat shrimp, and dinners that were a cut above. The bar was a gathering place for people of all ages, filled with excitement and positive energy. It was simply the best in the LB/NK area for comfort and enjoyment. In 2011, Gary and Janee sold the business to the Meyer family. While the first five years saw some improvements, the past five years have seen a decline. The menu now features more standard bar food and some favorite dishes have disappeared. Ownership became difficult, leading to unhappy staff and a decline in customer service. The once lively atmosphere has been replaced with tense and unhappy staff. The closure during COVID only made things worse, as the loyal customer base disappeared and the restaurant struggled to survive. The quality of the food has become inconsistent, although the drink selection remains good. Prices have gone up due to COVID-related shortages. The focus has shifted towards takeout, and the current closing time of 10 pm feels limiting. Portions have also decreased, hinting at a business in survival mode. For future entrepreneurs looking to revive the spirit of Around Back Cafe, securing a liquor license and hiring friendly bartenders with the ability to attract a diverse clientele will be key. Bringing back the charm and quality of the early days could be a recipe for success.

The entire dining experience was fantastic! The coconut chicken salad is amazing.

I just tried this restaurant for the first time. The atmosphere was fantastic and had a great vibe. The food was amazing - I ordered the chicken parmesan and my wife had the chicken salad. We will definitely be returning!