WILLISTON, N.D. - Allyson Helde, Chef of The Bistro, located in the TrainND-Northwest building, has been serving fresh and flavorful lunches and catering training events since January 2016 when The Bistro opened to meet the demands of TrainND's trainees, clients, and students.

Adding a kitchen on site became a goal for Deanette Piesik, Chief Executive Officer of TrainND, when creating the new training facility.

"We want everyone to have a quality experience with training," explained Bonnie Finch, TrainND's Logistics Coordinator. "Having access to good food on site allows for a better learning environment."

With over fifteen years' experience in the food industry, Helde began her first real kitchen experience at Pierce's Steakhouse in Williston. Helde continued to pursue her passion when she attended Le Cordon Bleu in Las Vegas.

"While attending school I worked for a low-country-style restaurant called Louis's Fish Camp and the fine dining sister restaurant," stated Helde. "From there I got into hotels. I worked at The Ritz Carlton in all kitchens, The Hard Rock Hotel in the banquet kitchen, and The Wynn in room service."

Returning to North Dakota, Helde began catering small events and was offered the position at The Bistro late last year.

The Bistro offers unique daily specials and soups, Monday through Friday between 11:00 and 1:30 p.m. Helde's specials change each week. Since July 10, The Bistro now offers to-go orders from its new menu for pick up during service hours. The Bistro has gained popularity in the community, with one happy customer proclaiming it "a hidden gem in Williston."

"Most of our customers have heard about us through word of mouth or their friends have brought them in for lunch," explained Helde. "We will see out tables turn over regularly during lunch service, which is a great feeling to have as a chef. It means people enjoy my food."

To experience The Bistro's new menu, stop by TrainND-Northwest at 415 22nd Ave NE Williston ND, 58801.

For more information on the Bistro, please contact Bonnie Fitch at 701.713.3790 or bonnie.finch@willistonstate.edu
For additional information regarding WSC, please visit www.willistonstate.edu,
call 1.888.863.9455, or stop by 1410 University Avenue, Williston, ND.