LE BISTROT Pierre now serves provincial French food across 14 UK locations, but its Derby bistrot is one of its longest standing, having opened in May 1996.
The second restaurant to open in the Bistrot Pierre group has gone from strength to strength and co-owners Rob Beacham and John Whitehead are delighted to be celebrating the bistrot’s 20th anniversary this month.
Mr and Mrs Grace dined in the restaurant for Bistrot Pierre’s birthday this month. They dined on the opening day 20 years ago and have been regular customers ever since. They especially love the Soirée Gastronomique and Dine with Wine evenings.
Rob said: “We started the business in the East Midlands, with our first restaurant opening in Nottingham just a year before Derby, so have a very strong connection to Derby and the region as a whole.
“We’ve grown considerably since opening in Friargate 20 years ago, but the restaurant still maintains a local feel and we work hard to maintain the highest standards of service, food and dining experience – having recently introduced a Menu Enfant to give families a wider choice of meal options.”
A recent refurbishment has meant that the bistrot has been busier than ever. Natalie Heard, general manager, is delighted with the business’ success having started her career as a waitress more than 10 years ago.
“When I first started there were just three bistrots which encouraged a real family feel which has remained since the group’s expansion,” she said.
“Each bistrot has maintained its individuality and the £250,000 refurbishment we had at the end of last year has made a huge difference – our customers love the new look.
“We have built up a very loyal following in Derby, with diners coming back time and time again; customers have been coming to visit us since we first opened our doors 20 years ago. We’re well established in the area and certainly one of the busiest restaurants in Friargate which is something we want to continue to maintain in the future.
“Derby’s restaurant scene is really coming to life now, with bigger groups and restaurant chains moving into the city but when I go out to eat I still come to Bistort Pierre – the crème brûlée is amazing, I’ve got a bit of a sweet tooth,” added Natalie.
Natalie Heard, General Manager
School friends Rob and John set up the business more than 21 years ago and have seen the group grow across the UK – with the next bistrot opening in Birmingham in July thanks to a £9.8 million investment from Livingbridge.
Rob added; “The investment in the business has meant that we can continue with our expansion plans; we’re hoping to open three new locations this year alone.
“Derby has done incredibly well and we’re very proud to have been open in the city for so long – it’s a testament to the hard work of our staff and high quality food we serve.”
