About Us
Bistro St Michaels originated in 1995, under husband and wife team David and Indra Stein, along with David’s parents, Phil and Sue. After a great 15 year run, the Steins moved on and the restaurant sat empty for a period of time, eventually to be purchased by new owners. Some great updates were made to the building during this time, such as the addition of a beautiful granite bar and cozy booth seating in the back. They also opened up the kitchen, providing the option of “dinner and a show” to bar patrons.
Fast forward to 2017, when Chef Stewart made the acquaintance of the then-owner of Bistro, who offered him the position of Head Chef. Just over a year later, Chef Stewart purchased Bistro St Michaels in March of 2018. General Manager Jennifer Stevens, Stewarts' then fiance, took over the reins in early 2019. Jennifer, who began her journey at Bistro in its early years, fondly remembered the vibrant spirit that once defined the space. Over time, she sensed it had lost some of its signature je ne sais quoi—and together, she and Doug set out to restore that magic. With Doug leading the culinary vision and Jen shaping the guest experience, the couple infused new life into the bistro.​​
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In 2025, now husband-and-wife team Doug and Jennifer became the sole proprietors of Bistro St. Michaels, marking a new chapter for the beloved Eastern Shore restaurant. Their shared passion is reflected in every detail, from the warm, welcoming atmosphere to the exceptional cuisine. Since completing a full interior renovation in 2020 and introducing the serene back patio, Doug and Jen continue to leave their mark on a St. Michaels classic.
Where Taste Meets Tradition
Doug
Stewart
Executive Chef | Owner
Talbot County native Doug Stewart, a firm believer in classic cooking techniques, built his career learning from seasoned chefs and trusted mentors as he steadily rose through the culinary ranks. “You have to take the time to allow flavors to develop, slowly, as they were meant to,” he says—a philosophy that’s become a cornerstone of the Bistro St. Michaels kitchen and the key to the rich, layered flavors in its signature dishes.
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“Nothing is rushed here, and we want that to convey to our guests—inviting them to relax and savor the time and effort that we have all put into ensuring their enjoyment,” he says. That “we” matters. Doug is quick to note that Bistro isn’t just the result of a great chef—it’s the product of a passionate, dedicated team working in sync. From the kitchen to the front-of-house, every member plays a vital role in crafting the experience.​
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At Bistro St. Michaels, that sense of pride and shared purpose is what truly makes the difference—and what keeps guests coming back.
Jennifer
Stevens
General Manager | Owner
Jennifer brings over 25 years of hospitality experience to the table at Bistro. She is passionate about facilitating a top-notch guest experience, providing an upscale yet welcoming environment with attentive service from the friendly and knowledgeable staff. She also continues to hand-curate the wine list to best accompany the cuisine prepared by her significant other, executive chef Doug Stewart, and his proficient culinary team.
“It is all about the complete experience while dining here at Bistro, whether popping in for a quick happy hour bite or relaxing over multiple courses with the perfect wine. Our goal is for it to be memorable and outstanding, every single time."
Host Your Private Events with Us
Plan your special events with us and create unforgettable memories. Our venue is available for private events, offering tailored menus and a charming ambiance to ensure a memorable experience for you and your guests.
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As a sister company of Bistro St. Michaels, Royal Oak Catering provides in-house and off-site catering services that are tailored to your event’s needs. We prioritize fresh, local ingredients and offer attentive service, ensuring your event leaves a lasting impression.
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