With a bittersweet farewell, Bistro 258 closed its doors for the final time on Saturday, Jan. 9. Located on Historic 25th Street in Ogden, Bistro 258 held a certain charm that allowed for patrons to relax and enjoy the food and company.
“We don’t herd people in and out of here. People like to stay here and chat, and I think in an era when I feel like the art of conversation has been totally lost … you know, to actually sit and have a meaningful conversation with someone over dinner, this is the place,” commented Bistro 258 owner, Nick Cash.
Cash and his son, Devin, fulfilled their longtime dream of owning a restaurant when they bought Bistro 258 back in 2007. Though they faced economic challenges throughout their ownership, a plethora of loyal customers and an exceptional menu helped keep the restaurant afloat during hard times.
As the economy turned around and the business progressed, the staff and customers became family. While many of the staff have been with Bistro 258 for years, even newer employees knew the restaurant was a special place to work.
“I’ve only been working here since September, but I’ve gotten so close with the staff here. Everybody just treats each other like family and it’s just really sad to go, because I feel like my family’s breaking up,” Josh Maddox, a server for Bistro 258, said.
Cash expressed similar feelings when speaking about his decision to sell the space to Warrens Craft Burger’s owner, Kirk Dean.
“The hardest part was telling my employees,” Cash said.
As for Cash and his son, the two are moving onto new phases in life. When Devin opted out of the company in mid 2015, Cash initially didn’t plan on selling. However, with retirement approaching and an additional full-time job occupying his time, he eventually decided that selling to friend and colleague, Kirk Dean, was the right choice.
Once word of the closure got out, reservations came pouring in and the community gave Bistro 258 a send-off to be remembered.
As the old restaurant is ushered out, a new one will be welcomed in its place. By February 1, 2016, Warrens Craft Burger will have a new home on 25th Street. Despite its reputation as a burger joint, Warrens Craft Burger will showcase a new and improved menu. When Kirk Dean purchased the space from Bistro 258, he also purchased several popular menu items.
Though Bistro 258 will be missed, its unique community atmosphere will live on in Warrens Craft Burger.
“This is classy-old. [Kirk] will make it classy-hip. But he’ll keep a lot of it, you know, and the feel will be pretty similar,” Cash said.
