Since 1993, loyal customers have flocked to Nelly’s Grill, a casual brunch spot on West 4th Avenue in Vancouver’s Quistilano neighborhood known for its friendly service and eggs Benedict.
But Nelly’s Grill — formerly Joe’s Grill — will close by the end of the month.
Owner Nelson Ma told the CBC he made the difficult decision to close because of the impending rent increase of at least 40 per cent.
“When my rent goes up at least 40 percent, there’s no way we can survive… I decided it’s time to move on,” Ma said.
The new owner of their building, who bought the place last September, told Ma they will increase the restaurant’s rent when their lease expires at the end of 2023.
Nelly’s Grill owner Nelson Ma and longtime manager Joyce Yee are pictured at the restaurant on Tuesday. Ma was told that their rent would increase by 40 percent after their lease ended. (Ben Nelms/CBC)
Ma initially tried to sell the business when the new owner took over, but said the buyers weren’t interested in the rent increase.
“I’m only closing because of the rent, nothing else… It’s not because we’re not doing good business.”
“Smiling faces and the best Benny ever”
Fiona Scott, who lived in one of the two condos above Nelly’s Grill for more than seven years, was a regular customer. She went to Nellie’s the first week she moved in and said mum and the staff soon became family friends.
“They were always very welcoming and it was very evident from the regulars they had in the diner. I was happy to become one.”
Fiona Scott lived in one of the condos above Nelly’s Grill for seven years and was a regular customer. (Fiona Scott)
Scott had to move out last month because the new owner has been renovating the apartments for more than a year, she said, adding that she has no plans to return.
“I don’t think I ever got a clear answer as to whether I could come back. I’m sure the rent has almost doubled,” Scott said.
Scott said she will miss the community at Nelly’s and her favorite order, Kitchen Sink, which she describes as “a good plate of everything.”
“They are family… their legacy is smiling faces and the best babies ever.”
Patrons at Nelly’s Grill in Vancouver on Tuesday. Many say the restaurant is known for its friendly service and eggs benedict. (Ben Nelms/CBC)
Jane McFadden, executive director of the Kitsilano Business Association, said Nelly’s is a neighborhood staple — a great spot for early risers who want a good breakfast, those nursing a hangover and everyone in between.
“This staff and this environment will be truly missed by all.
“It’s just sad to see him go.”
“Local treasures will be taken off the market”
The building’s new landlord, a company called Novena Land, also owns the buildings on West 4th Avenue that housed Bishop’s Restaurant and Peak Golf at the previous location.
episcopal closed earlier this year due to a rent increase, while Peak Golf told the CBC they moved to a new building for the same reason.
Novena Land did not respond to CBC’s request for an interview.
Nelson Ma pictured at Nelly’s Grill in Vancouver on Tuesday. He says he is looking for a new place to work in the future. (Ben Nelms/CBC)
Vancouver city councilor Colleen Hardwick, a longtime customer of Nelly’s, said she was “heartbroken” to see the restaurant go.
She says the city can do little to protect local businesses because commercial rent protection falls to the province.
“Speculators are getting in on the act and it’s going to transform the neighborhood.” As we’re already seeing, the mom-and-pop stores, the local treasures, will be taken out of the market,” Hardwick said.
While Nelly said goodbye for now, Ma said she is looking for a place to work in the future.
“I have very good loyal customers and I thank them very much. I really appreciate all their patronage all these years.”
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