Inuvik (Jan 14/05) - For 10 years Hans Mauer has operated two of Inuvik's most popular restaurants.

When he wasn't serving the who's who of Inuvik and beyond at his Green Briar dining room, Mauer was overseeing the action down the hall at the Sunriser Cafe - better known to regulars as simply, "the coffee shop."

Both eateries were located in the soon-to-be-demolished Mackenzie Hotel.

"I have to learn how to relax a bit," he said. "This business is go, go, go. You had to be ready three times a day and there's never any time to say leave it 'til tomorrow."

Originally from Switzerland, Mauer trained under the rigorous expectations of master chefs who "thought they were God."

It was that kind of atmosphere that prompted him to come to Canada "to get away from that kind of thing."

Since arriving here in 1976, Mauer has cooked for many of the country's finest restaurants, including the Jasper Park Lodge, and he has become a Canadian citizen.

His vocation has also taken him to Singapore and prior to coming to Inuvik, Mauer managed the food services for an oil drilling outpost in Western Siberia.

Like many who come North, Mauer says he always wanted to try living here but only for "about five years." Ten years later, Mauer has made Inuvik his home and left a legacy of good times and great food.

"It was fine dining for Inuvik," said Mauer of the Briar's reputation. "We made it personal, people liked the service and it was an entertainment for many people. We didn't always succeed, but you know how it goes."

As for the coffee shop, heralded as "the centre of Inuvik" for the years and years of gossip uttered under its roof, Mauer says he has lots of fond memories.

"Many decisions for the town were made at that round table," said Mauer. "Art Carrier has to be one of my favourite customers. He had his seat and was the Godfather of the coffee shop when he sat there."

Patrons of the Briar and the coffee shop agree there is a void in town without the two popular gathering spots.

Out of business

- for now

Mauer called it quits in the restaurant business on Dec. 23, with a last supper of the Briar's famous ribs for his loyal patrons.

Mauer does not have any immediate plans to get back into business, but he's not ruling it out.

"We'll see what happens with the oil and gas boom, but for now I think I'll just take it easy."

Part of Mauer's new "take it easy" regimen will be learning how to play the piano he just bought.

Sitting at the large upright - complete with the Green Briar sign a "very dear friend" bought for him at the recent Mackenzie Hotel auction, it would appear Mauer has some practising to do.

"I don't know if I'm ever going to play the piano, but it's here when I'm ready."