Backwoods Bistro is currently housed in the old Sopchoppy Drug Company which was built in 1912 and was home to a full blown pharmacy, soda fountain and doctor’s office in the 1940s. The business continued until the 1950s when Corine Hodge opened up a dress shop, kept the soda fountain
and sold over-the-counter goods. This was a favorite hang-out for the young folk. The first ice cream in the
county was served from this location. It was also an Emergency Alert Center during World War II.
The historic brick building sat vacant for over a decade until Nelson Martin bought the building and renovated
it to it’s current status, complete with the unique alligator tile counter. In 2002, Martin and partners
Robert Seidler and Dave Pierce opened up Sopchoppy Outfitters and Backwoods Pizza. The restaurant was
a welcome addition to the town and brought new life into the downtown. In Jan. 2006, the owners closed
the restaurant and moved on to other endeavors.
In Nov. 2006, the Rice family re-opened the restaurant with a fresh look and a new name, Backwoods
Bistro. Randy and Winky and their two sons are running the operation. Sons, Jesse and Tyler both worked
at the restaurant over the years fulfilling all the various duties from dishwasher to chef. Jesse, now the executive
chef, interned at several five star restaurants in Nashville, TN.
Everyone’s favorite pizzas, sandwiches, entrees and salads are still being served- everything homemade
and fresh. Chef Jesse is continually adding entrées, appetizers and new desserts.
Other enhancements include wireless Internet café and live music on Saturday nights. The restaurant plans
to serve as a community venue for local musicians and artists. Plans are also underway for special movie
nights, youth nights, and competitive cooking events.
Call ahead and your food will be ready to take out or dine in with us.
