About Us
The Evolution of
Bijou Restaurant
Bijou Through Time: A Journey in History
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 25 years, Bijou delighted guests with locally inspired cuisine, cementing its reputation as a true gastronomic gem. While Bijou’s presence may be changing, its commitment to exceptional cuisine and heartfelt hospitality remains at the core of everything we do.
2000
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.
2015
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.
2024
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.
2025
Bijou Evolved
Bijou Culinary Experiences offers a unique journey into the world of fine dining, wine, and gastronomy. Our curated experiences include exclusive Wine Tastings, Culinary Tours, and innovative Restaurant Pop-ups, each designed to delight food enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike.
Step Into a New Era of Bijou Culinary Experiences
Culinary
Tours
Customized culinary tours where every bite tells a story
Portugal & Montreal
Resto
Pop Ups
Stratford locations featuring the Bijou culinary experience
First Event June 6, 2025
Meet the Team
Meet the passionate team behind Bijou Culinary Experiences.
Mark & Linda Simone
Owners
With over 40 years of extensive experience in the culinary industry, Mark and Linda have built a diverse and accomplished career. Over the past ten years, they developed a new vision for Bijou, maintaining the daily-inspired prix fixe menu while introducing à la carte options and live entertainment. Additionally, they have owned and operated a wholesale bakery, cafe and deli establishments, and a successful catering business. Linda holds a degree in dietetics, while Mark brings his expertise with a marketing degree in hospitality. Their combined knowledge and passion for food continue to shape new culinary experiences within the Bijou model.
Evan Trower
Head Chef
Evan has been a vital part of the Bijou team for the past two years and now leads its distinguished culinary team, driven by a passion for cooking that began while catering with his family. This early foundation inspired his path into fine dining, where he honed his craft in some of Canada’s top establishments, mastering precision, technique, and flavour. Trained in classical French methods, Evan combines his refined skills with the rich, locally sourced ingredients of Perth County. Blending tradition with innovation, he creates dishes that tell a story and consistently delivers memorable culinary experiences at Bijou Restaurant.
Peter Williams
Manager
Peter has been a key member of the Bijou team for nearly a decade, starting as a dishwasher and server’s assistant before becoming a server and now Manager. A Perth South native, he developed a strong work ethic on a dairy farm before discovering his passion for fine dining. He later graduated from Niagara College’s Winery & Viticulture Technician program and spent three years at Rosewood Estates Winery, gaining hands-on experience in winemaking. Returning to Bijou with a deep appreciation for food and wine, Peter is excited to help shape its next chapter and bring new, innovative experiences to Stratford’s culinary scene.
Hugh Dwyer
Assistant Manager
Hugh was born and raised in Stratford and has been a valued member of the Bijou team for the past five years. Throughout his tenure at Bijou, he has excelled as a bar manager, curator of Bijou’s live entertainment, and in assisting with front-of-house operations. With an extensive background in the culinary industry—including experience in serving, bartending, hosting, and management—Hugh brings well-rounded expertise to the new Bijou model. Most recently, he has expanded his knowledge of mixology and has played a key role in evolving Bijou’s curated wine pairing program.
Dave Escuadro
Social Media and Communications
Dave has been a valued member of the Bijou team for the past three years. With over 20 years of experience in visual communication, digital media, and brand strategy, he specializes in social media marketing and content design. Dave crafts compelling campaigns that engage and connect with diverse audiences. His expertise in UI/UX, digital storytelling, and multimedia design allows him to create impactful visuals that strengthen Bijou’s digital identity across all communication platforms.