By Melissa Smalley
The refurbished restaurant and pub at the Marmot Ridge Golf Course – now under new ownership – is set to open this week, and those behind the Prospectors Roadhouse are hoping the eatery becomes the "social heartbeat" of the Cariboo.
The 29-acre property was purchased in September by the owners of the Flying U Ranch, and according to a release, plans are in the works to expand the golf course in addition to revitalizing the restaurant.
"The golf course is an excellent tie-in for the Flying U Ranch," says John Lovelace, president and CEO.
"Many of our ranch guests are looking for additional activities. On the other hand, membership at the golf course will give local residents reciprocal privileges at the ranch, including use of the waterfront and boats and riding packages."
Expansions at the golf course are expected to include kids' golfing, golf-and-dine packages, receptions and weddings, Lovelace says.
Finishing touches are being put on the renovations of the Prospectors Roadhouse, which owners say will feature a certified red seal chef cooking "western-style home-cooked recipes," as well as special events throughout the week, such as Sunday brunches, live music on Saturdays and Baron of Beef cookouts on Fridays.
According to Lovelace, the re-opening of the restaurant has resulted in 28 new staff members being hired, and all existing staff at the golf course were offered positions to stay on with the new ownership.