The Belvedere Restaurant property — a Saranac Lake landmark that has been owned and operated by the Cavallo Family for nearly 90 years — has transitioned to new ownership as Chrissie Wais and John Levy have taken the helm at the historic business.
The ownership transition marks a new chapter for the Belvedere, which originally served as a boarding house before the restaurant opened in 1933.
Levy has made updates to the restaurant’s offerings including weekly specials, an upgraded menu, a new point of sale system and additional staff. The couple sees significant opportunities for growth due to the property’s adjoining acreage, proximity to the new Adirondack Rail Trail and easy access to outdoor experiences and downtown events.
Previously unknown to each other, they came together thanks to a mutual friend. Levy owns and operates the restaurant and Wais owns and manages the property.
Over the last two years, Wais and Levy accessed local business support services and resources through the Saranac Lake Area Chamber of Commerce (SLACC) and the Center for Businesses in Transition (CBIT), including matchmaking opportunities that connect aspiring business owners with available businesses. SLACC Executive Director Rachel Karp is one of 13 CBIT community liaisons across the North Country who are trained to support businesses through the ownership transition process.
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