Karen McOuat
Northern News Services

NNSL (Aug 31/98) - Come and get it! Today is the last day of the Wildcat Cafe's 1998 season.

Like Yellowknife's pioneers, visitors have trekked in from around the territories, the country, and even the world to take part in the Wildcat experience.

In fact, the Wildcat's legend has been enshrined in the Museum of Civilization with an exact replica.

Tourists have to stop by at least once during their visit. "Everyone will ask if you've been there," explains one visitor, "and until you have, you can't look them in the eye!"

People come to soak up the atmosphere of the log cabin and, of course, the authentic Northern dishes, such as caribou and muskox meat.

"The food this year is exceptional," assures Ann Peters of the Old Stope Association, the non-profit group that maintains the cafe.

Indeed, the menu is constantly being revamped, offering more variety than it did in 1979, when it listed only three items.

Built in 1937, the Wildcat operated continuously until 1951. Closed for 28 years, it was renovated and reopened in 1979, when the city leased it to the Old Stope Association.

Next season is the Wildcat's 20th anniversary - that's longer than its original run. Celebration plans include a possible reunion of past staff members.

"No one really knew how popular it would become!" says Peters, sounding a bit surprised herself.