If you’ve ever happened upon Dugan’s Pub on 401 East Third street, you’ve probably also noticed Stratton’s Market at Dugan’s Pub, a few paces down.
Get ready for a taste of Europe, because the space in-between the two – most recently home to Clean Eatery – will now complete the aesthetic with the introduction of Skye’s Little Bistro.
Skye Ward, daughter to Don Dugan and Tasha Stratton, will be heading up the newest French Bistro taking on the River Market.
Skye grew up around food. At the age of six she was serving her parents French Toast all by herself, and as a teen was helping her dad in his then-restaurant – Markham Street Grill and Pub.
Dugan says, “She’s a real quick learner. She was always very skilled and probably one of the best sous chefs I ever had.”
Ward says, “I’ve been around food and cooking my whole life.” And, even though she’s had plenty of experience working restaurants from the management side, she felt the need to ask an expert about menu development. She brought in Good Food By Ferneau’s Amanda Ivy, a well-known baker and local chef, to consult on dishes.
The idea behind the space is a cozy bistro, a European space to bridge the gap between her mother’s market and her father’s pub.
Ward says, “You have an Irish Pub right here, as well as … a European Country Market. So we thought, what if we try to do some European cuisine? A little more fine dining than the pub, something completely different.”
The eatery will offer a few solid charcuterie boards from around the world, think Italy, France, and even Arkansas. A few highlights include special Italian-style ribs, Saucisson, and Kent Walker Artisan Cheese. Bonus for wine lovers, small tastings are built into the price of the board.
There will also be a handful of fresh-made daily sandwiches to chose from, and a few hot dishes revolving around duck.
Ward says, “Taste wise we’re going for European, a little bit modern, a little Southern – all infused together. We’re trying to keep it pretty simple, and making as much here as we can.”
Chef Ivy adds, “One thing that’s really nice is working with [Stratton’s Market] next door. Tasha works directly with the farmers, so her produce is fresh. Almost by default we get to work with local produce.” This also means that the bistro will be working with what’s in season to change up the menu.
The invite-only soft opening takes place next Monday, with a grand opening date to be announced. Skye’s Little Bistro will be open Monday – Saturday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., initially. Breakfast hours may be added depending on demand.
