Contact Your Host, Ryan Devlin, for Your Next Celebration
At Devlin's Country Bistro, we endeavour to provide an exceptional meal with outstanding service, whether in your home or ours. Catering is our speciality!
Ryan Devlin, son of Chris Devlin, purchased the family heirloom in October 2020 after dedicating his entire life to the industry and Devlin’s Country Bistro, with the dream of one day making it his own. Ryan is now the fifth generation to operate a business from this historic location.
A Legacy of Culinary Excellence
Christopher Devlin, Ryan’s father, embarked on his culinary journey at a very young age. Beginning as a busboy and dishwasher at The Heritage Inn, Chris progressed to waiting tables and ultimately discovered his passion in assisting the Chef. With his family’s encouragement, Chris pursued a Chef’s Apprenticeship, undertaking a three-year programme at George Brown College and apprenticing under Joseph Von Lanthen at the Constellation Hotel in Toronto. Upon graduating in 1985, Chris spent the next five years travelling and working as a Chef across North America, refining his skills in preparation for his ultimate dream of opening his own restaurant.
On 8th August 1990, Chris fulfilled that dream by opening Devlin’s Country Bistro in the very building where the Devlin family had prospered for over 100 years in Mt. Pleasant, Ontario.
The Next Generation
Chris’s eldest son, Ryan, was born on 18th July 1991. Ryan spent the first four years of his life living above the restaurant, where his passion for food began to flourish from an early age. Despite Chris’s encouragement to pursue a different career, Ryan was resolute in his desire to join the restaurant industry. He began catering at the age of 11 and started working full-time at another high-volume restaurant by the age of 13. Throughout high school, university, and his studies at France Business School, Ryan continued to work in the industry, always returning home on weekends to assist with catering.
Ryan eventually expanded his horizons while operating Devlin’s Advocate in downtown Brantford. However, in December 2018, he and Chris decided to sell the Brantford restaurant to focus on the Bistro and its growing catering business. Today, Ryan collaborates with his chefs to create continental and locally inspired cuisine, served in an upscale yet casual environment by loyal and charming servers. The menu is designed to showcase locally sourced ingredients alongside premium imported products.
Adapting to Challenges
The challenges presented by COVID-19 inspired Ryan to innovate and evolve. With a reduction in catering, the largest portion of their business, Ryan pivoted to expand their offerings. Now, they serve a large volume of takeout, pre-packaged meals, sauces, dressings, and freshly baked goods. Ryan continues to grow and adapt within an ever-changing economy.
Historical Significance
This former combined general store, post office, and residence has been a fixture in Mount Pleasant since it was built circa 1834 by Russell and Julietta Sturgis Hardy. It is the sole survivor of a once-thriving commercial section of the village and holds significance as the birthplace of Arthur Sturgis Hardy, the fourth Premier of Ontario.
The Devlin family has a deep history with this building. John and Sarah Devlin, natives of Ireland, settled in Brant County in 1863. George F. Devlin, one of their eight children, became the first of five generations of Devlins associated with this site when he purchased the Hardy store in 1879. The business has since been passed down through the generations, each contributing to its legacy.
Preserving Tradition
With its high gables and upper storey arched window, the building is an example of Ontario vernacular Neo-Gothic style. Although some features have been altered, the Devlin family has preserved its historical integrity. The building continues to symbolise the Devlin family’s enduring presence and hospitality in Mount Pleasant.
Contact Us
For your next celebration, contact Ryan Devlin for your personal limousine service in a custom-designed 2018 Mercedes Sprinter "Private Coach." You can also enjoy our balanced dishes at the restaurant in Mount Pleasant, just 10 minutes south of Brantford, or contact us to have your next event catered.
Let Devlin's Country Bistro make your event extraordinary with our exceptional food, outstanding service, and rich history. Contact us today to begin planning your celebration.