As posted by a contributor to the Eat At Joe’s forum, a message from Tim Mallett of Great Restaurants Inc. to Blue Water Grill customers.

To Our Valued Customers:

As we get closer to the end of 2008, we also approach the 20th anniversary of opening Blue Water Grill. Twenty years is a long time in the restaurant industry and I believe we have made a significant change to the St. Louis dining scene. We have introduced simply prepared seafood, tapas-style dining, wine flights, etc., and the idea that you could go out for a nice meal without spending a small fortune. They may seem like common practices now, but 20 years ago they were unheard of. I feel we have been successful at our mission statement of providing a high quality hospitality experience with emphasis on creativity, superior service and value.

But as we all know, we live in some very uncertain economic times that have made the restaurant industry extremely challenging. Our customers have less disposable income to spend on eating out and business has suffered. So when my lease is up in November, I have decided not to renew it. Blue Water Grill will serve its last customers on Saturday November 8th.

Although a difficult decision, I am still hopeful of what is to come. Big Sky Café and Remy’s Kitchen & Wine Bar are independently operated and will not be affected by the closing. Each is responsible for their business and profit, and I am positive that we can come out better on the other side. But we need your help. I strongly urge you to support as many local independent restaurants (i.e., us) and let them (us) know how much you like what they (we) are doing and how to improve.

Many of you starting coming to Blue Water Grill with your parents to celebrate milestones and occasions, and you now bring your own families to continue the traditions. Thank you for including us in your family memories; it has truly been an honor. I hope you continue to think of us and celebrate with us at our other “Great Restaurants”. I am also grateful to the 20 years of staff. These great employees not only have produced some great products, but have provided amazing personal service too. They are the ones who have made us a “Great Restaurant”.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact me by going to our web site. While you are there, please be sure to sign up for the Big Sky Café and Remy’s Kitchen & Wine Bar newsletters so that you can find out about some of the new and exciting things we have planned for 2009.

Thank you for your support. Sincerely,
Tim Mallett