Call to Support Mark and Honour The Coastal Cafe

Hey everyone,

My name is Geoff. Much like you, I was crestfallen to learn of the untimely closure of The Coastal Cafe. I have of course no direct connection to it, only that it is/was one of my most favourite restos in Halifax and was the first place on my recommendation list for anyone visiting. I have made sure to connect with Chef Mark Giffin about starting this before doing so.

Let's all celebrate and honour this beloved establishment that holds a special place in our hearts—the one and only, The Coastal Cafe. For 16 years, this small but welcoming restaurant on Robie Street in Halifax has nourished our souls with its imaginative and rich breakfast options, leaving an indelible mark on our culinary experiences.

The Coastal Cafe was more than just a place to grab a delicious meal; it was a gathering spot where friendships were formed, ideas were exchanged, and memories were created. The community rallied around this cherished establishment, ensuring that it was always bustling with activity. However, the restaurant's journey has come to an unexpected and unfair end.

The devastating impact of COVID-19 restrictions and lockdowns has already taken its toll on countless businesses, and The Coastal Cafe was not spared. To add to the heartbreak, the city now requires the land on which this gem stands for a rapid transit corridor. You can read all about it and in Mark's own words here: https://bit.ly/3X5XQRM. This unfortunate turn of events has left Chef Mark Giffin, the passionate owner of The Coastal Cafe, in a state of emotional and financial purgatory.

But now, it's our chance to give back and show our deep appreciation for everything Chef Mark has created for us over the years. We have the power to come together as a community and support him during this challenging transition period. Let's demonstrate that the impact of The Coastal Cafe went far beyond the confines of its walls.

We are reaching out not only to those who frequented The Coastal Cafe and reveled in its incredible food but also to the businesses that benefited from the increased foot traffic generated by this beloved breakfast spot. To other restaurants who can relate to Mark's story and the challenges faced by small, independent eateries. And to all those who hold fond memories of indulging in "The Durty Burd," the iconic breakfast sandwich that stole our hearts.

By "tipping" Mark now, we can collectively express our gratitude for the joy, inspiration, and welcome space he provided us. The goal is to raise funds to help ease the financial burden of this transition, enabling Chef Mark to embark on his next chapter with a renewed sense of hope and support.

We invite you to join us in preserving the legacy of The Coastal Cafe by donating generously to this GoFundMe campaign. Every contribution, no matter the size, will make a difference and demonstrate the strength of our community. Together, we can ensure that Chef Mark Giffin knows how much he and his creations meant to us—how they touched our lives and enhanced our community.

Please share this campaign with your friends, family, and colleagues who have had the pleasure of experiencing the magic of The Coastal Cafe. Together, let's create a wave of support that Chef Mark can ride into his future endeavors, knowing that he has left an everlasting mark on Halifax and its passionate food-loving community.

Thank you for being a part of this journey and for helping us express our gratitude to Chef Mark Giffin.