ONE of the Island’s much-loved beach cafés is to close its doors this weekend after nine years of serving food, drinks and good times to locals and visitors.
Kismet Cabana is hosting a Farewell to Ouaisné Fiesta for its customers this Saturday, from 3pm to 11pm.
However, owner and founder Chris Lister has hinted that there may be a new chapter for Kismet as he hopes to take the private catering side of the business to “the next level”.
Speaking to the JEP, he said the business was looking to set up a front-of-house shop somewhere else in the Island to showcase its catering.
He said: “We aim to showcase what Jersey has and what we do best in produce, from different farms around the Island, and then using that to put together delicious local dishes.”
Mr Lister said he decided to found the beachside kitchen in 2015 because he wanted a “new challenge”.
After travelling around the globe to far-flung locations such as New Zealand and Australia, he held chef roles at The Salty Dog, El Tico, and other well-known Island eateries, but decided it was time to try something new.
“My career has always been about challenging myself, and now it’s come to another stage in my life where I need a new challenge. It is a big decision and may be a huge risk, but sometimes being comfortable isn’t the be-all and end-all.
“This should also give me more time to spend with my family, rather than working Sundays.”
Mr Lister said that the lease on the Ouaisné site had come to an end and he had decided not to renew it.
There were other reasons behind his decision to close the café, but Mr Lister did not want to talk about them.
“There will still be a café down there, someone will take it over, but it won’t be Kismet Cabana,” he said. “Because that’s just the direction we’ve decided to take the business.”
The highlight of his nine years at Ouaisné has been the people, he added.
“There are several locals who have played a huge part in Kismet, whether it’s helping with the building or repairs, or fixing a hole in the roof.
“It’s great down here and we’ll miss it. We know most of the people walking with their dogs by name. The sense of community that Ouaisné has and the people it attracts, it’s a beautiful place. It will always be my favourite place.”
He said that he was looking forward to Saturday’s event: “It’s going to be great to see everyone who’s been a part of Kismet, and to have a final farewell. We’ll have paella and we’ll talk about the good times.”
As well as the famous Kismet paella, there will be live music from Nic Dinnie and Rick Jones, plus a Modok Silent Disco.
The event description said: “After nine incredible years of cooking up fresh flavours, creating unforgettable vibes, and refining our craft, it’s time to raise a glass to our next chapter. But not before one last epic party! We’ve also got a few surprises up our sleeves, because what’s a Kismet event without a twist?
“This is our chance to honour the journey, the tribe, and the community that’s made Kismet Cabana what it is so far. Let’s celebrate the memories we’ve created, the magic we’ve shared, and raise a toast to the exciting adventures that lie ahead.”
