From new menu items to independent films, you can expect to see things that you won’t see anywhere else in town. “It’s more than just a bar, a stage and a bunch of lights,” co-owner Jeff Bates said. “It’s got more character than that. And with an in-house theater and a loungey, mid-1900s atmosphere, the Bistro has character written all over it. From its history to its menu, everything behind its doors is unique.”
The actual building that houses the State Theatre and International Bistro was built in 1937 after a fire in 1929 burned down the Rex Theatre, which used to stand in its place. The State Theatre gets much of its influence from the Rex, right down to the bricks. The same ones were used in the rebuilding of the theater and can still be seen in the walls.
Even the light fixtures are from the 1930s, and the heavy satin curtain hanging from the stage creates that “Old Rex” atmosphere. The Bistro’s influence comes from more than just Rex Theatre, however. As reflected in its name, the International Bistro has a wide variety of menu selections from many other cultures and nationalities.
For example, the Bistro offers many new entrees, such as a rack of lamb, couscous and North African Chicken, a Moroccan dish; plus favorites such as gyros, jerk chicken and numerous salads.
For customers who have a hard time making a decision among all of the choices, the Bistro makes it easy. They offer a meal called “The Odyssey,” meant for two people. The menu states, “This special serving takes you around the culinary world all in one sitting.” This sampling includes four different international foods plus an appetizer, salad, desserts and coffee.
Although it has some fairly healthy selections, the menu has plenty for the big eaters, too. Famous for its half-pound Main Street Burger, the Bistro also offers steaks and pastas for those a little less brave.
“It’s a relatively unique menu for Starkville as far as having lots of different styles to choose from besides just chicken tenders and quesadillas,” Bates said. “It’s evolving kind of like the theater is. The menu is changing, too.”
The entertainment at the Bistro is just as exciting as the menu and reasonably priced. In the past, bands like The North Mississippi Allstars have rocked the stage, and last Thursday night, the crowd was entertained by the musical talent of Planter’s Row. This Wednesday, Mofro will play before they head off to Harvest Fest in Atlanta next weekend.
On Thursday, Sept. 5, the Bistro will be trying out something totally new. For the first time, they will be showing an independent film called “The Earth Will Swallow You” on their new 22-by-18 screen. This screen will also be used for “Monday Night Football,” college football and other sports showing this year.
The Bistro will also have some new seating soon. Remodeling of the upper balcony will make extra room for couches, tables and another bar. The excellent view of the stage will make these some of the best seats in the house, especially on film nights.