After two decades of serving the same community, a family-owned Thai restaurant on Kingsway in Burnaby has closed its doors for good.
We spotted a farewell note taped to the front door of Green Basil Thai Restaurant along Kingsway.
“After 20 wonderful years, our family has made the decision to retire and close this chapter,” the note reads.
It is signed by “The Green Basil Family.”
The message goes on to thank customers for the years of support.
“From quick lunches to family dinners, birthdays, celebrations, and the familiar faces we came to know over time, thank you for letting Green Basil be a small part of your life,” it reads.
“Your support, your kindness, and the memories you’ve shared with us have meant more than we can ever properly express.”
Green Basil Thai Restaurant opened back in 2006 and sat on the busy stretch of Kingsway near Metrotown in Burnaby.
The restaurant served dinner nightly and had built a loyal following in the area over the past 20 years.
During its time, it has been awarded in the Best Thai category by Burnaby Now and mentioned by other local publications.
But unlike many closures in the region that are driven by rising costs, lease disputes, or redevelopment, this one comes down to a personal decision.
The family behind Green Basil is retiring, marking the end of a chapter they chose to close on their own terms.
The space is not sitting empty for long.
We spotted signage for Yin Ji Chang Fen already up on the unit, signaling what is taking over.
Peeking through the windows, crews were inside gutting the place, and a hiring sign for kitchen staff was posted.
Yin Ji Chang Fen is a popular Cantonese rice noodle roll chain that currently operates a location in Richmond on Alexandra Road.
The Burnaby spot would be the chain’s second location in BC and its first in Burnaby.
Green Basil Thai now joins other recently closed food spots in Burnaby like Arisu, Sushi Toki, and Macu Tea.
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Address: 4623 Kingsway, Burnaby, BC