New shop The Bike Bistro brews up social scene

FORT MYERS, FL (BRAIN) — New Fort Myers retailer The Bike Bistro is just as much a social space as it is a bike shop.

Among the Phat Cycles, Ridleys, Felts, Fujis and Dahons for sale sit a lounge area and a full-service coffee bar custom-made from concrete and palletized wood. Bright colors for walls and accents infuse the shop with a retro feel.

“That’s what makes this more of a neighborhood bike shop. It’s not a place where guests are overwhelmed with hundreds of bikes and hard sales,” said owner Steven J. Martin, who opened for business in November. “Bicyclists stop in sometimes just for the coffee and to talk cycling. It’s a comfortable, friendly place to come in to say hello, enjoy a hot beverage, and of course to find out about our products and services.”

Martin is a longtime ad man — his last stint was 18 years as senior creative director and partner at a Fort Myers advertising agency—who is now pursuing his passion for cycling … and coffee, of course. The shop even serves its own Bistro Blend Java.

Plans call for tables and seating on the brick-paved walkway out front, consignment art for sale inside the shop, bike rentals and WiFI access.

The Bike Bistro has a full service department as well, and all work comes with a warranty. 

“We take great pride in our professionalism and workmanship, and we stand behind every bike we sell because it’s our bike first,” Martin said.