How it all began...
 
We both grew up in beautiful Halifax County, enjoyed successful careers for 18+ years and returned home to be closer to our families.
 
Co-owner/ Chef Margaret attended Baltimore Culinary Institute, studied in Ireland and France, owned award winning restaurants in Orlando, FL and Portland, OR and Barbara returned from sunny FLA from a positon as President of a vacation rental company. Though we both grew up here, we only met in 2001. The plan was for Barbara's marketing background to bring the customers through the door and Chef Margaret's culinary skills would ensure they came back year after year. 
 
We wanted to introduce Southside to something that had not be offered before.... an upscale, casual restaurant offering infused New American Cuisine with a cosmopolitan atmosphere.
 
After a year of research, feasibility studies, planning and finding the perfect location -- in a quaint downtown, near 3 major intersections, hotels, industry and a performing arts center to open in 2005 -- BISTRO 1888 opened to 'rave reviews' in March of 2003 and continues to receive great restaurant reviews for guests' exceptional dining experience
 
It has been a wonderful 18 years.  We've had the opportunity to watch little kids turn into young adults and first dates turn into marriages. We have seen downtown South Boston go from mostly vacant buildings on our block to a totally occupied block with unique and wonderful shops.  And, we have enjoyed helping bring that big city feel of 'dinner and a show' to the area with BISTRO's culinary excellence followed by wonderful performances at the Prizery.  Thanks for being a part of our story.
 
We have appreciated all the love and support over the years.  

BISTRO 1888 2003 - 2021
 
Much love, Chef Margaret and Barbara
 
 
   "dinner that can only be described as fabulous (and not in a small town way)" Fredericksburg Free Lance-Star, 2005