"It was a wonderful location with a beautiful view that needed to be better used," explained Tammy Hite, chief of business operations for MWR, about the recent overhaul of the eatery located at Russell Landing on American Lake.

Prior to its renovation, the Bistro was the Russell Landing café, which was open for lunch Monday through Friday, but had only snack bar style offerings. Now, in addition to the cosmetic improvements and expansion, the entire menu has been revamped.

The Italian-influenced bistro will offer lunch and dinner and has a new chef and staff ready to give patrons a great experience. Everything is fresh and made to order, and many things, such as focaccia bread, will be prepared in house. Lunch will have offerings ranging from sandwiches to an arugula salad with a balsamic dressing and creamy goat cheese. Dinner options include rosemary and garlic marinated pork chops and thin crust brick oven pizza. Menu entrees range in price from $12 to $20 (the 16-ounce T-bone is the most expensive item), and lunch can be even less.

Outside there are new walking trails that go around the facility; a small beachfront was created, and an outdoor patio that seats 28 allows for al fresco dining when the weather permits. Curbside service, for the moms who don't want to unload the kids for take-out, will be offered, according to Hite.

Monday through Wednesday, you can grab lunch between the hours of 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. After 2 p.m., the space's semi-private room, which holds about 35 people, is available for small parties, events, or FRG meetings. Thursday through Saturday hours are 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. offering lunch and dinner service. On Sundays, the Bistro will be open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. but will offer a limited menu. The summer season does have extended hours, however, and the rest of the year, the Bistro will be closed Saturday and Sunday.

"We want people to make a day of it," said Hite. "If they are out on the lake or using the marina, they can call ahead to place their orders. There are some open slips right by the Bistro, so we can deliver to the boat!"

The Bistro, which is in Building 8981 on American Lake Avenue, JBLM North, should be fully operational by the end of July. Call (253) 964-0400 or visit www.jblmmwr.com/russellcafe.htm for more information about the grand opening.