Two additional features of the new Chemainus Public Market, coming to the former Chemainus Foods building, have been revealed.
In addition to Captain Andy’s Fish and Chips and the space being made available for booths announced previously, there will also be a section at the front of the building to be known as Archie’s Ice Cream Parlour and Diner, with Wizard’s Arcade at the back of the building.
Those plans were unveiled during the recent Our Chemainus - A Celebration community event hosted by the Chemainus & District Chamber of Commerce where market manager Laurie Douglas was in attendance to answer questions.
The parlour and diner won’t be a typical shop where patrons just buy ice cream cones.
“What we are hoping to do is create the old soda shop type of thing,” said Douglas.
To rekindle memories of yesteryear for members of the population old enough to remember such establishments and generate the right atmosphere for all ages to enjoy, it will, of course, include an old-fashioned jukebox.
Floats, sundaes and milkshakes will be sold, not just ice cream. The menu will also include fun foods like chili, hot dogs and pizza by the slice.
The retro vibe can be accentuated by including the location as part of ’50s car shows in the parking lot and other special events.
The fish and chip shop and ice cream parlour and diner will each be located at opposite ends inside the front entrance, with prime retail space available in the middle.
The arcade at the back will include a pool table and a variety of games.
“Maybe people would be interested in a board game kind of club,” Douglas added.
There are all sorts of possibilities, depending on public interest and demand.
A meeting room at the back measuring 15 feet by 22 feet will provide lots of other opportunities.
“It’s a multi-purpose kind of area,” said Douglas.
It can accommodate about 20 people and will be available to rent in a three-hour block or at a daily rate.
The primary concern to date has been getting everything in order with the building’s heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems.
“Next thing will be the bones for the eatery and then the layout for the booths,” Douglas indicated.
The target date for the market’s opening is now at the end of February 2020.
“We’re hoping to have an open house once things are roughed in a bit better,” said Douglas.
“We don’t want to take away from existing businesses,” she emphasized. “We really hope to be working with the community. I’ve lived here all my life and I plan to promote other businesses.”
