After 31 seasons, The Farm Restaurant in Port Austin, a cherished Michigan dining landmark, will welcome new ownership in 2025.
Iconic Farm Restaurant Owners Pass the Torch
In a heartfelt announcement, Pam and Chris, owners of the famed Farm Restaurant in Port Austin, have revealed that 2024 will mark their final season at the helm. After an impressive 31-year tenure, the couple is stepping back from the restaurant business to explore life beyond the industry. The restaurant, known for its elevated culinary experiences and warm hospitality, has long been a cornerstone of the local dining scene, attracting both residents and visitors to Michigan’s Thumb region.
The transition to new ownership will take place in January 2025 when Jim Selke, along with his wife Beth and son Justin, assumes control. The Selke family, well-known in the area as the proprietors of Sandy Dunes Adventure Golf, plans to carry forward the legacy of quality and excellence established by Pam and Chris.
Commitment to Continuity and Excellence
To ease the transition, Pam and Chris have committed to staying on in their current roles throughout the 2025 season, ensuring a seamless handoff. The restaurant’s celebrated team, including Sous Chef Mirsad Cunmulaj, will also remain. Cunmulaj, a veteran of the kitchen, is set to take on the role of head chef once the time is right.
The Selkes have assured patrons that operations, including the restaurant’s seasonal hours and popular off-season events, will remain unchanged. “Our top priority is maintaining the exceptional dining experience that Pam and Chris worked tirelessly to create,” Jim Selke shared in the announcement.
Fond Farewells and a Lifetime of Memories
For Pam and Chris, the decision to step away after three decades is bittersweet. “This announcement is bittersweet for us but after such a long run, it is time that we start looking at life beyond the restaurant business and the commitment that it takes to be the best,” they expressed. The couple also highlighted the lasting memories of serving generations of diners who have made The Farm Restaurant a special part of their lives.
While the restaurant moves into a new chapter, the legacy left by Pam and Chris will remain an indelible part of its identity, and their presence throughout the 2025 season ensures continuity and stability during this transition.
A Legacy of Excellence in the Thumb Region
The Farm Restaurant’s journey under Pam and Chris has been marked by dedication to high-quality cuisine and a commitment to fostering community. Their influence extends beyond the restaurant’s walls, with the space serving as a backdrop for countless celebrations and gatherings.
The Selkes, no strangers to hospitality through their ownership of Sandy Dunes Adventure Golf, bring both a love of the region and a deep respect for The Farm Restaurant’s history. This blend of continuity and fresh vision promises to keep the restaurant a must-visit destination for years to come.
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