Robin Charles and Feng Zhang are optimistic about their future as new business owners. (Derek Cornet/larongeNOW Staff)

By Derek Cornet

business

New owners for Vickie’s Saigon Bistro

Jun 23, 2022 | 1:07 PM

Vickie’s Saigon Bistro in La Ronge is officially under new ownership.

Lac La Ronge Indian Band member Robin Charles and his wife, Feng Zhang, took over the restaurant on June 21 from the previous owners who will be moving to another province.

Charles explained the first couple of days have been busy.

“This is my first time doing Asian cuisine,” he said. “Some of it is brand new on how to do things, especially with times and temperatures. I want to make sure it’s cooked accurately.”

Charles mentioned there won’t be any major changes to the menu, so residents can expect to continue ordering their favourite dishes. He noted there could be some additions in the future with a limited-time menu with his and his wife’s homestyle cooking, as well as a bar menu if the business is able to obtain a liquor license.

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Charles would also like to plan for renovations to the restaurant such as new flooring and an update to the décor. He wants to add outdoor plants near the front entrance, as well as include a patio set for those who want to sit outside for coffee or tea.

Charles would like to resume indoor dining soon, as well as branch out to catering and delivery.

“I enjoy the fact my wife is happy here,” he said. “She likes this restaurant, she likes this area and she likes how it panned out.”

Charles noted opening a restaurant is a dream come true for Zhang, who in recent years immigrated from China to Canada. He said they were approached around a year ago about taking over Saigon Bistro and his wife has worked hard to learn the recipes and understand the financial side of the business.

“I told my wife communication is everything,” Charles said. “As long as everyone gets their food and we make sure it’s cooked proper in the same time and make it look and taste the same or better is even better.”

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derek.cornet@pattisonmedia.com

Twitter: @saskjourno