Our Story
The Journey of Bijou Restaurant
Since its establishment in 2000, Bijou Restaurant quickly became a beloved culinary destination, earning acclaim from both Stratford locals and visitors from around the world. For 26 years, Bijou delighted guests with locally inspired cuisine, cementing its reputation as a true gastronomic gem.
THE BIRTH OF BIJOU
Aaron and Bronwyn Linley opened the Bijou at the turn of the millennium, in the spring of 2000. The only entrance to the Bijou was through the Erie St. back entrance, and the restaurant had seating for just 30 guests. Under the Linleys’ leadership, the Bijou quickly gained prominence as one of Stratford’s best restaurants, featuring a locally inspired prix fixe menu.
NEW OWNERSHIP
Mark and Linda Simone purchased the Bijou from the Linleys in 2015, expanding the seating to 60 guests and opening the front entrance at 74 Wellington St. The Simones maintained the daily-inspired prix fixe menu while introducing à la carte options and small plates. The Bijou retained its strong reputation within the Stratford dining scene and remained a must-visit destination for both tourists and locals alike.
SIGNIFICANT FIRE
On the evening of Friday, October 19, 2024, tragedy struck the Bijou Restaurant as a significant fire caused extensive damage, forcing its closure. Following the fire and the uncertainty surrounding a full rebuild, we felt it was time to embrace a new model that aligns with our evolving culinary vision.
BIJOU RELOCATED TO A NEW, EXCITING SPACE
Bijou relocated to a new, exciting space at 34 Brunswick Street in Stratford as a sister restaurant to Anthony Jordaan’s Braai House. Both restaurants began operating at the location, with Bijou moving into the main level facilities and Braai House continuing on the upper floor. The synergy between the two establishments created an exceptional variety of dining experiences, all under the same roof.
