Pineville Grill Closes After Two Decades Of Service

They survived a devastating fire, made lots of delicious pancakes and fostered a lot of friendships.

But the folks at The Pineville Grill have closed the doors after 21 years of business.

The last breakfast was served on July 16.

The sign on the door of the Pineville Square business says, "Closed For Good."

The Rivard family launched the business 21 years ago, on July 31. "Grandma made her dream a reality and took over a restaurant," Amy Rivard wrote on a Facebook post. "It's not always been easy and it's not always been fun but it's always been home!"

When the family got its start in the restaurant business, they leased the space and continued to call the restaurant the Old Timers Cafe.

In January 1997, the family experienced a devastating fire, just months after taking over. The fire destroyed the kitchen and most of the dining room. The cafe remained closed for clean-up efforts until April 15.

In appreciation of the Pineville Fire Department, who saved everything they could from the fire, family members began a new tradition -- an annual firemen's pancake breakfast.

Two years after the fire, Grandma purchased the building and changed the name to The Pineville Grill.

Lots of cups of coffee and breakfasts have been served. Friends and neighbors met to share news. Locals as well as those who vacationed here passed through the doors.

Family members say they have been blessed to all work as a family at the business, and have made many friendships over the years.

"Needless to say it's been a long 21 years and Grandma is tired and ready for a change," Rivard wrote.

"We are very sad to see it go but excited to see what the future holds!" Rivard wrote. "So thank you Pineville! For making the past 20 years some of the best memories!"

Many have posted on The Pineville Grill's Facebook page, saying they will miss the café, the friendly staff and the delicious food.

Roger Cottrell probably summed it up best when he posted, "You really can't have Pineville without The Pineville Grill. You all will definitely be missed."

General News on 08/17/2017