CARIBOU, Maine – Bechard’s Grille in Caribou has new owners and a new name.
Caribou couple Chad Saunders and Miranda Dewitt purchased Bechard’s two weeks ago after owners Rae and John Rossignol announced that the restaurant would close by April 1. The Rossignols took over Bechard’s last summer but struggled with a decline in customers, especially after a dismal snowmobile season.
Thanks to Saunders and Dewitt, who are engaged to be married, the restaurant located at Skyway Plaza will remain open. On or after May 1, they hope to have installed new signage branding the business as Sizzle & Slice.
“We’re very relieved and so happy that [Bechard’s] will keep on going,” Rae Rossignol said. “I love the new name and the fresh ideas Chad and Miranda will bring. They want to bring back live bands and DJs on Saturday nights.”
Saunders manages Tim Hortons restaurants in Presque Isle, Caribou and Madawaska and Dewitt currently works at the Caribou Tim Hortons. Saunders said he plans to stay with Tim Hortons while also operating Sizzle & Slice.
Saunders and Dewitt eventually plan to change aspects of the restaurant’s interior but are currently focused on the transition in ownership.
“We’ve always been in food service and wanted to do something of our own,” Saunders said. “We wanted a name that would stand out and get people talking.”
Three employees from Bechard’s have remained with the business, while another seven found other employment after hearing of the initial closure. Sizzle & Slice has hired people to replace those who left, Rossignol said.
