Confirmed: Aquilini Buys Toptable Group

Those Wine Festival rumours were true. The Aquilini Group (who also own the Canucks) has acquired full ownership of one of Canada's leading hospitality brands – Toptable Restaurant Group from proprietor Jack Evrensel, who will be staying on in a consulting role. The group, which includes some of the biggest name restaurants in Vancouver and Whistler will apparently be unchanged.

"Aquilini Group (AG), one of Vancouver's most diversified companies, with holdings in real estate, development, sports and entertainment and renewable energies, has acquired full ownership of one of Canada's leading hospitality brands – Toptable Restaurant Group – from proprietor Jack Evrensel on Tuesday, March 18th, 2014.

Evrensel will be engaged in a consulting capacity to oversee the continuation of the legendary Toptable Group experience, and operations remain unchanged.

"Our team has never been stronger nor this rich in talent, and this is due to the commitment and passion of our award-winning chefs, renowned restaurant and wine directors, and dedicated employees," Evrensel added. "I'm proud of the three decade reputation Toptable Group has established, which is built on the foundation of pursuing excellence without compromise, a generosity of spirit, and a love of food and wine. I'm pleased that Toptable will continue on the same path that acknowledges these founding principles.

"I am also very pleased that the Aquilinis will bring their passion for hospitality to Toptable," Evrensel said. "This is a very positive alignment that will ensure the continuity of all Toptable properties."

Established in 1981 with the opening of Whistler's Araxi restaurant, Toptable Restaurant Group has grown to include renowned Vancouver restaurants CinCin, West, and Blue Water Cafe, as well as the chocolaterie, patisserie and cafe, Thierry.

The terms of the transaction will not be disclosed."
· Toptable Group [Official site]