Return of a bistro and a new bookstore

NEW GLASGOW - The beginning of 2023 started with some sad news for The Bistro, a beloved restaurant that has been feeding community members for over 20 years. Owners Heather and Rob were shutting the doors.

Almost six months later, the doors are ready to be reopened by Tom Emmott and Willow Harrison.

You might recognize Emmott, as he had previously worked at the Bistro, and had a private chef business in New Glasgow.

“I had left for quite a few years but always maintained contact with a lot of people. It's such a great area and (I have) some really amazing friends,” Emmott said.

He and Harrison met and shared a passion for the culinary arts. Both are Red Seal chefs and have dreamed of having their own food business.

The couple had big plans for the space, however, the economy wasn't going to cooperate. They decided to scale back and have still found ways to make the space their own.

Emmott commented that being a new business owner has been a learning experience, but he and Harrison are extremely grateful for the support they've received from the community so far.

“Without the support of the community and everybody, we wouldn't have been able to do it,” Emmott added.

“We have people who are begging for reservations already, and dropping off wine, asking when we are open and if they can book a reservation. We've also had requests for Christmas already,” Harrison added.

The couple acknowledges that the restaurant was previously a pillar for food in town, but believes the changes they've made will be received well.

“it's going to be really heavily focused on pasta and have a relatively small menu, we want to start off getting a few things right” Emmott explained.

“We've imported a machine from Italy. So, we are going to be able to make fresh handmade pasta,” Harrison said.

The couple is also excited to offer a learning opportunity for students or new graduates who want to further their education.

“They will have the opportunity to become a journeyman chef and get their Red Seal through our kitchen,” Harrison explained.

The couple expressed their excitement for this new adventure and have big plans. Although there is no set date for opening yet, they are aiming for early July.

“We are rooting ourselves here and we want to expand,” Harrison said, “There are really great people who have done a lot of work in this town, and we want to be a part of it.”