Popular Wichita restaurant with a healthy niche is closing due to staffing issues
Years ago, Charolett Knapic’s own health problems prompted her to try a new way of eating, and when it worked for her, she wanted to share what she learned with others.
“I was amazed at how good I felt just giving my body what it needed to just do its work.”
She’s done that for others for six years with her Beautiful Day Cafe, but a disappointed Knapic is now closing the business.
“I’m just so proud of what we were able to offer and that we could provide clean food for people who realized they really needed it for their health,” she said. “Just to be able to have food that hasn’t had the chemicals added or (been) cooked in a microwave or cooked in aluminum cookware and foods that are low glycemic. I’m just sorry to not be able to offer that any more.”
Knapic says she’s been struggling to find staff.
“It’s just been very difficult trying to find help to prepare the food especially, and we do so much from scratch.”
She’s been paying employees overtime to keep working, but Knapic said she can’t afford to keep doing that.
“The overtime just killed us, plus everybody’s tired and worn out and a little edgy.”
Ideally, Knapic would like to sell her business, which includes an almost 1,500-square-foot building on a 17,000-square-foot property at 2516 E. Central that includes a garden. She also would share her recipes with the buyer.
Oct. 17 is the restaurant’s last day in business. Until then, it will be open Thursdays through Sundays.
Knapic says at 65, she’s also looking to slow down some. Her Echo Landscapes will remain in business.
The restaurant was a special venture for her, she said.
“We’ve just met so many great people.”
However, she added, “Cafes are not easy. It’s the toughest thing I’ve ever done in my life.”
Knapic was happy to have six years with the restaurant and wanted to say “just a big thank you for people’s support in helping to make that dream come true.”
This story was originally published September 27, 2021 at 11:17 AM.