One of Livingston, Montana’s most notable restaurants is the Second Street Bistro, adjacent to the famous Murray Hotel. Chef Brian Mendez has owned and operated the Bistro since 2004, reimagining how the town of Livingston enjoys good eats; after studying and traveling through Europe. The world took note of the famous Second Street Bistro when Anthony Bourdain visited the restaurant for dinner, with renowned guest and local author Jim Harrison, in early 2016. The menu and the food at Second Street are undoubtedly among the best I’ve ever had. The menu at Second Street Bistro changes seasonally, with the availability of locally sourced ingredients, and with Chef Mendez’s signature French flair.
Sitting at the bar, with enough room only for four chairs, I browse the menus unable to decide, so closing my eyes I point at a random item, leaving the decision to my subconscious. Neither my subconscious nor the Bistro ever disappoints. One of my favorite aesthetic points was the wax-dripped candles throughout the restaurant, in some places filling the surrounding area like a frozen waterfall forever cemented in time. The staff at Second Street Bistro are not just servers; they are storytellers, eager to share the tale behind each dish and make your dining experience truly memorable. The Second Street Bistro has something for everyone, regardless of the season.
Unfortunately, Chef Brian Mendez recently decided to sell his version of the Second Street Bistro. The light at the end of this tunnel might be that Brian’s lead Chef will be taking over and will surely imprint a part of himself on the Bistro’s new journey. I do not doubt that when the Second Street Bistro reopens late this spring, it will be better for it. Whether you’re a local or are traveling through Livingston, the Second Street Bistro is a culinary landmark that should not be missed.
*Update* The Second Street Bistro reopened last week under new ownership. Chef Brian Mendez’ sous chef took the reins, and after closing the restaurant for some months opened the doors with a new look, a new menu, and a new flair. I’m eager to take a seat at the bar and explore my favorite points from the new menu but until then those of you who have also been waiting for the restaurant's rebirth, you’ve got your chance.