In the small community of Ingonish in Cape Breton, the Coastal Restaurant has been serving locals and travelers for almost 50 years. Behind the Coastal Restaurant's success story are two friends who met at Cape Breton University.

Keith Moore and Jason LeBlanc met in the Bachelor of Hospitality and Tourism Management (BHTM) program when their training placements were at the world-renowned Keltic Lodge. Known for its stunning ocean views and high standards of hospitality, they got a firsthand look at what it took to run a successful operation in the tourism industry.

Their time at CBU provided them with an education and offered them the work ethic and business knowledge needed to succeed in the demanding hospitality sector.

Keith and Jason’s training in hospitality in Ingonish gave them a solid foundation and a clear understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities within Cape Breton’s tourism industry. Their early careers grew directly from their student placements at the Keltic Lodge, where Jason held roles in food and beverage before expanding his experience to two other properties. Keith also began at the Keltic Lodge before moving on to several successful seasons at Dundee Resort & Golf Club.

In the fall of 2005, the pair learned the Coastal Restaurant was for sale. A small but loved establishment, Coastal Restaurant had become a staple in the community. Keith and Jason saw an opportunity they couldn’t pass up.

Owning and operating a seasonal restaurant in a rural community comes with its fair share of struggles. The long hours, especially during the peak tourist season, often meant 12-16 hour workdays, juggling staffing shortages and unpredictable weather that could make or break a season. Unlike restaurants closer to cities, with steady foot traffic, Coastal Restaurant’s success depends heavily on Cape Breton’s tourism industry.

Keith and Jason leaned on the knowledge they had gained at CBU, from business management to customer service excellence, ensuring that every plate leaving their kitchen reflects their reputation. They’ve embraced innovation, adjusting their menu and business to cater to changing customer demands while staying true to the restaurant’s identity. This even led to an appearance on the Food Network in 2012.

This year, Coastal Restaurant marks its 20th anniversary under Keith and Jason’s ownership. What started as a dream between two young students has grown into a local institution, drawing visitors from around the world.

For Keith and Jason, 20 years is a testament to the friendship, education, and a dream that brought them here. As they look to the future, they remain proud CBU alumni, forever grateful for the experiences and connections that set them on this incredible journey.

From classmates to business partners, from struggling young entrepreneurs to seasoned restaurateurs, Keith Moore and Jason LeBlanc have proven that with passion and perseverance, anything is possible. Here’s to 20 years of the Coastal, and many more to come!