The Early Years

The site where Bistro 101 stands bordered a duck pond prior to the first structure that was built here in 1840: the two-story brick home of Judge David Markley. 

In 1848, Tom Hineman, a wagon maker, took possession of the property until 1856 when Mary Dean bought the house and used it as a boarding house. Mrs. Dean was the mother of W.O. Dean, Canton’s premier cigar maker. 

The Canton House

In 1867, Mayor Hemenover purchased the property and opened a hotel which he operated with his brother Judge Hemenover and nephew Edwin, for many years, called The Canton House. 

Over the years, there were several changes to the building due to two fires and some remodeling.

In 1880, a fire almost destroyed the building, but it was rebuilt.

Then in 1898, it was again mostly destroyed by a fire and was rebuilt almost exactly as you see the building today.

The building included a bowling alley and a game room in the basement, and for years there was a barber shop in what is now the kitchen.

A hub for hospitality

In the early days, it was a stage stop in Canton; due to its proximity to the CB&Q railroad depot, it had a lively business. During the heyday of rail passenger service, twelve passenger trains passed through town daily. Some of the passengers overnighted at the hotel. 

The Canton Hotel was closed in 1982 but the barbershop continued until 1986/1987.

A restaurant is born

The main floor was opened as Georgia’s Restaurant in 1991, followed by more restaurant offerings, including the fine dining experience Palm Cafe.

Bistro 101 opened for business on January 1, 2013, and is a beautiful place for dining and relaxing in The Parlor.