A TASTE OF DOWNTOWN
St. Thomas
by Sarah Noble from the Elgin/ St. Thomas Small Business Enterprise Centre
@SBECinnovation Restaurants are central to the idea of the local experience - one of the best ways to immerse yourself into the culture of a place. Restaurants are the inside scoop on the business, social, intellectual, and artistic life of a thriving society. Business ideas sketched on napkins, first dates, lively debates, and sublime opportunity to discover new flavours immersed in authentic environments. The location of The Bistro has been a pillar in our Downtown for decades. And over the last six years, it has been transformed from a lunch spot to casual fine-dining experience focused on scratchmade dishes with all the airs of homecooked comfort. One thing that hasn’t changed though is the sunflower bread. It’s still as good as my
Food is such a central part of our community experience. Thriving cities are ones that have emerging and dynamic food scenes. And while there is still room for more options in St. Thomas - the food culture has been expanding for years.
way back memories and something I look forward to each time I enjoy a meal with The Bistro. It’s soft and buttery with a little hint of nutty flavour and a perfect crust. It is the ideal accompaniment to just about everything on the menu.
Those Who Create the Vibe
accommodate that sense of home wherever you are as online ordering and takeout are available.
Another favourite that always brings me back is the Cheddar Ale Soup with its bite of cheddar, and creamy texture is the perfect complement to the Railway City Iron Spike Ale. If you have never enjoyed this soup, the cold and grey of January is an excellent opportunity to add it to your lunch or dinner order!
As of this writing, The Bistro is open for indoor dining with the full menu. But when you are reading, please take into consideration any changes to our local situation and check with any restaurant what the current hours and availability are. They appreciate your business in whatever ways you can support our local dining options!
The Bistro offers an extensive menu and daily specials. Whether you are looking for a fresh salad or a hearty steak, they can
You can find The Bistro at 625 Talbot St. in St. Thomas and stbistro.ca.
The First Authorized Retail Cannabis Store in St. Thomas Back in 2018, when the Government announced that the cannabis industry would be a free and open market, Marie and Bob Ross knew opening a store would be in their future. They took the necessary steps to make it happen and opened their store later that December. But they only received their
cannabis in April 2020. While they are proud to be St. Thomas’ first authorized retail cannabis store, Marie and Bob have faced many hurdles. Luckily, they persevered despite many claiming that “cannabis was a millionaires’ business in which regular people would never succeed.” The cannabis industry is ever evolving with new products and producers entering the market constantly. Product testing and research are by far the best ways to keep up to date — and those are the areas in which Bob’s Bud Emporium and its staff excel.
“My favourite part of the business is that it is legal and those who consume can do so out in the open, without shame or hiding it,” says Marie Ross. “Although, there is still work to be done to debunk the myths and stigma surrounding marijuana, its use and benefits.” “We have to thank the great people of this country who have been advocating for the legalization of marijuana for many years. Some of them experienced the benefits of marijuana personally; others knew of someone who benefited from its consumption.” In addition to a knowledgeable and helpful staff, Bob’s Bud Emporium offers a relaxed and inviting atmosphere. Whether you are an experienced consumer or new to the market, everyone, over 19 years of age, is welcome. Located at 483 Talbot Street, Marie and Bob love the relaxed and friendly community spirit of their Downtown St. Thomas location. Ph: 519-207-1022 or bobsbudemporium.ca.
