The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 19
May 15, 2009
Brent Miller, Cathi Jakubiz and Ben Reed are eager to serve you. Photo by Cayla Gabruck
Ray Ray’s owners ready for summer By Cayla Gabruck Pioneer Staff Nothing says summer like a cold beer, a hot day and a breathtaking view. Nothing says summer like Ray Ray’s Beach Pub. Invermere’s newest restaurant and pub near Kinsmen Beach is the perfect place to enjoy a summer day. “Our vision was to make a place where generations of people can grow up and enjoy – someplace where they can make memories,” said new owner Ben Reed, formerly of Calgary. Ben, 34, and his partners, Cathi Jakubiz, 37, of Calgary and Brent Miller, 33, of Leduc, officially took over the former Station Pub in mid-March. An entrepreneur, Ben always dreamed of owning his own restaurant. His interest in the food industry developed while he was attending university in Ottawa. Cathi brings a wealth of knowledge to the business, as her family has owned restaurants in Banff including the King Edward Hotel, Cassis Bistro and Out of Bounds, a popular sports bar. Brent brings technical know-how to the business, taking care of finances and mechanical issues. He will also be trying his hand behind the bar. When the group first saw the restau-
rant last fall, they were instantly sold on the location. Now, with a soft opening and numerous renovations under their belt, the trio says: “Bring on summer!” One of their goals is to showcase live music that most people will enjoy. “We will have a live band every weekend from now until September,” Ben said. Featuring an eclectic menu full of fabulous food, 12 types of draft beer, 36 bottled varieties, six different coolers and a wide range of non-alcoholic beverages, Ray Ray’s Beach Pub is definitely worth a look this summer. There is also a family section, making it suitable for everyone. So far, the pub has had a great response from patrons and even a few words from competing businesses. “Our menu says, ‘Arguably the best burger in the valley, possibly the world,’” Ben said. That claim has earned the new pub a challenge from Luxor Creek Cantina, located at Spur Valley Greens Golf Course. Patrons are invited to test a burger at both establishments and place their votes for best burger in the valley. The contest will close on July 1st. Ray Ray’s will hold its long weekend kick-off party this weekend, featuring performances by The Groove Demons of Calgary.
Join us May 15th– 16th for our…
LONG WEEKEND KICK-OFF PARTY! Live Music Friday & Saturday:
The Groove Demons from Calgary
12 Beers on Tap! Crazy Drink Specials all weekend! Try our ‘Best Burger’ Special. NEW ATMOSPHERE ATMOSPHERE NEW ATTITUDEE
Open Sunday – Thursday, 11:00 a.m. – Midnight Friday – Saturday, 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 a.m. 1701 - 6th Avenue, Invermere (Formerly the Station Pub)