The William Tell Restaurant began in 1964, with founder Erwin Doebeli and two partners, emphasizing personal service, leisurely dining and a European approach to food. In 1971, the partners decided to separate by mutual agreement, and Erwin continued his passion for excellence and customer satisfaction.

In 1983, the restaurant moved to its present location in the newly built Georgian Court Hotel. Since then, the restaurant and Erwin have received innumerable awards and accolades. In this past year alone, The William Tell has been recognized with top awards from The Vancouver Sun, Vancouver Magazine, WHERE Magazine, and the AAA.

The BC Restaurant Food Services Association recently bestowed “Restaurateur of the Year” upon Erwin, as well as inducting him into the newly established Restaurant Hall of Fame. In recognition of his long-standing support of the Rotary Club Charities, he was the recipient of the Paul Harris Fellowship award, Rotary International's highest designation. The City of Vancouver issued a Proclamation for “Erwin Doebeli Day” October 18 th , 2005.

After a long and illustrious career, Erwin and his wife Josette who has also been active in the business for many years, began a well-deserved retirement in May 2005 and took off for an extended visit to Switzerland and other parts of Europe.

The Next Generation

Philippe Doebeli has now taken over as Owner/Manager, following several years as Food & Beverage Manager. Philippe took his three year apprenticeship under the tutelage of his father, and in 2000 went to Europe to broaden his experience. Philippe worked at Hotel de la Navigation, Lausanne, Switzerland and the illustrious Le Montreux Palace in Switzerland. He then continued on to the great wine regions of Europe, returning to Canada to work at the renowned Relais & Chateux Post Hotel in Lake Louise, where he had the opportunity to work with one of the finest wine lists in North America.

At The William Tell – also serving as Sommelier – Philippe created one of the finest and deepest wine lists in the City.

Philippe has pursued several studies in the industry, including: British Wine & Spirits Trust Certificate & Higher Certificate, American Hotel & Motel Educational Institute – 11 courses completed, awarded a Hospitality Operations Certificate and a Human Resources Management Specialization Certificate, and L'accueil au Service – Guest Service & Hospitality Certificate.

Philippe is an avid skier, soccer player, film buff, food and wine enthusiast, and accomplished guitarist. He looks forward to continuing the tradition that has been established at The William Tell of fine dining, impeccable service and warm hospitality.

[May 4 th , 2005]

As published in the premiere issue of "Achievers" magazine, May, 2003.