Bisbee Royale unveils stunning Art Nouveau renovations and exciting dining options
Bisbee Royale, the newly transformed restaurant and cafe located in Bisbee, has recently opened its doors to the public, offering a unique and captivating dining experience. Under the ownership of Mike Stefaun, the former Bisbee Royale has undergone a remarkable Art Nouveau renovation that has completely changed its appearance and ambiance. Drawing inspiration from the late 1800s architectural movement, Stefaun has combined fine arts and interior design to create a space that showcases the beauty of flowing curves and rounded corners, inspired by the dynamics of the natural world.
As visitors step into the establishment, they are greeted by an abundance of natural light that accentuates the pristine white walls and highlights the intricate stone tiles adorning the walls, floors, and granite countertops. Stefaun's 30 years of experience in construction and his inclination towards hoarding various building materials have allowed him to bring together a captivating interior that combines the old and the new.
One of the standout features of Bisbee Royale is the recessed floor lighting, which transports patrons to a different realm, evoking a sense of wonder and enchantment. Stefaun proudly claims that there is nothing quite like this in Bisbee, making the experience truly one-of-a-kind.
Stefaun's journey with Bisbee Royale began two and a half years ago when he acquired the 8,000-square-foot historic building. Originally constructed as a church in 1918, it later became the Bisbee Repertoire Theater before being transformed into a music and film venue by artist and collector Sloane Bouchever. Eventually, Bouchever donated the building to the local radio station KBRP, which subsequently sold it to Stefaun.
The first task on Stefaun's agenda was to renovate the former theater, leaving it ready for the next phase of his Art Nouveau vision. However, before delving into the theater project, he set out to establish a breakfast spot that would fill a gap in Old Bisbee's dining scene. With unwavering determination, Stefaun accomplished this goal and more, resulting in the creation of two distinct eateries within the transformed space.
The Royale Café, managed by Bunny Knight, specializes in delectable crepes, paninis, and expertly crafted coffee blends. Knight's culinary expertise shines through her vast array of mouthwatering offerings, ranging from blueberry crepes to veggie paninis, all of which have quickly become favorites among patrons. The café also caters to coffee enthusiasts, offering a wide selection of coffee varieties that are sure to satisfy even the most discerning connoisseurs.
Adjacent to the café is the Dragon Sports Bar, helmed by Chef Gavin Holter. This bar and restaurant combo provides a perfect setting for sports enthusiasts and offers an extensive menu of libations and delectable dishes. With seven strategically placed TV screens, guests can enjoy their favorite games without straining their necks. The Dragon Sports Bar serves a variety of dishes throughout the day, including omelets, breakfast burritos, specialty burgers, sandwiches like the classic BLT, as well as sides such as onion rings and homemade house fries. Stefaun has plans to expand the menu to include vegan options, veggie burgers, and charcuterie boards to cater to a broader range of tastes and dietary preferences.
In addition to the delectable cuisine, Bisbee Royale showcases Stefaun's commitment to preserving the building's historical charm. Elements of exposed brick and wood from the original structure have been intentionally incorporated into the café, adding a touch of authenticity and nostalgia. Even the restrooms have been given special attention, with large windows allowing natural light to illuminate the space, complemented by beautiful tile flooring and accent lighting.
While Stefaun continues to excel in the restaurant business, he has a dedicated team working on his long-term project of transforming the former Lyric Theater into a luxury hotel. This ambitious undertaking involves creating a three-story solarium, a fully equipped workout room, a spa, and a sauna, offering guests all the amenities one would expect from high-end establishments. Stefaun's passion for architecture and preservation is evident, as he seeks to leave an indelible mark on Bisbee that will be appreciated for generations to come.
As Bisbee Royale emerges as a must-visit destination in the area, locals and tourists alike are captivated by the Art Nouveau splendor and the tantalizing culinary offerings it presents. Stefaun's dedication to creating an extraordinary dining experience and preserving the town's history ensures that Bisbee Royale will continue to be a cherished establishment within the community.