Throughout the pandemic, owners Kassy and Tyler Scott had to adapt to an ever-changing hospitality landscape. This meant pivots, openings, closures, patio revamps and more - you can read all about it on another post, here - but like many Ontarians, Kassy & Tyler reconnected with their love of the outdoors, and followed this passion in creating Rare Escape. The decision wasn't an easy one, though, and their restaurant will be missed by the community.
"Seeing our dining room full and alive with the electric buzz of happy customers fills up my heart. When guests approach me on a busy Saturday night to say things like “You’ve done a tremendous job here,” or “That was the best meal I have ever had,” it truly brings tears to my eyes and a sense of pride that can’t ever be taken away," Kassy wrote in a heartfelt social media post announcing the pending sale of the restaurant.
Through their challenges and reconnection to nature and wilderness, Rare Escape was born - an intimate outdoor culinary experience that blends the healing powers of an escape into nature with the comfort of a delicious, locally sourced meal. "Go on a peaceful adventure in the woods to find your soul. Once you find it, make sure to reflect in grateful bliss. Nourish yourself with comfort food. Remember that sometimes it’s the most simple act of self care to reconnect with the earth. The hard part is confronting why we lost that connection in the first place," Kassy writes.
Their Lunch in The Woods experience is happening next, on June 11th. Guests are brought on a scenic, half-day adventure hiking through the woods to reconnect with nature and heal the mind, then chef Tyler sets up to cook lunch over an open fire - complete with tips and tricks to do it yourself when the time comes. Tickets are $125 per guest and you can request a spot by emailing connect@rareescape.ca. Plus, on June 25th, they're hosting a guided canoe portage lunch that sounds absolutely magical. For the most up-to-date information, follow them on Instagram.
