The Green Willow / Sunshine Restaurant History Violet Norris was well known by her family and friends. Everyone enjoyed Violets cooking so much they told her that she should open a restaurant. Well in 1964 Violet did just that. Paul Franklin and Marv Underhill built Violet a small lunch counter and she named it the Green Willow in honor of the big willow tree that sat in the front yard of their home, which was conveniently located next door. Violet quickly became popular with the local farmers and was well known for her footlongs, malted milk shakes and yummy homemade desserts. Charlie; Violets husband was equally popular with the youngsters, sneaking them bags of candy when Violet wasn't looking. The business thrived and Violet retired in 1972, selling the restaurant to Doug Scott. The Green Willow saw a number of owners over the next few years including Juanita Smyth and Christina Anderson. In 1990 Peter and Mary Tsang of Port Rowan bought the property and the Sunshine Restaurant was born. Peter and Mary expanded the restaurant to include an upgraded kitchen and a residence in the back. They served their popular Chinese food for 17 years.
In December 2007 Peter and Mary retired to St. Thomas and sold the restaurant to Rick and Rainey Weisler of Cambridge. Their young family bring a new energy to the building and make you feel as though you're a guest in their home and not just a customer passing through. The old booths still hold with them a rich history of lively conversations, many a coffee and always a good friend.
And in those rare quiet moments, you can almost see Violet smiling behind the counter!
Sunshine Restaurant! Where there are no strangers, just friends you haven't met yet.