When entering Bid's Place, you immediately become one of the "family". The clash of mobsters and FBI cover the walls and the menu at Bid's, inviting you to choose your side, but not conflicting your ordering decision.

Bid's Place owner David Florence made the transition from law enforcement to small business owner about two years ago. The freshest ingredients available are the key to Florence's success. Those fresh ingredients go in to creating their one of a kind mobster menu, with items like the "Slingin' Lead" sandwich and "The Associate" pizza pie.

Bid's Place Menu Items
Ian Delap, Townsquare Media
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David was ready for a change when he learned from a friend that the previous owners were going to close up shop and sell off the equipment. David purchased the business and ran the operation with only the help of his wife Marci and David's mother. Thanks to steady business and loyal repeat customers, the family was able to hire additional employees to help burden the load and extend their hours of operation.

How did you come up with the mobster theme?

DF: The mafia motif came from my young infatuation with “gangsters” and at a young age. I thought I wanted to be one.  But their retirement program left a lot to be desired, so I went the direct opposite and with a career in law enforcement.

From law enforcement to Bid's Place?

DF: Heard from a friend that they were closing – I talked to the owners then went home and told my wife, “Honey I bought a restaurant.”  It's been a busy two years, but we love it.

What do you love most?

DF: Truly the customers.  I don't have loads of time but when I do, I spend it visiting with my customers. It truly feels like family.

To what do you attribute your early success?

DF: Everything is fresh. Nothing is frozen.  The meat and  vegetables are cut fresh everyday.  All fresh ingredients.

Starting a business isn’t cheap. How did you find the money?

DF: We were able to finance with my retirement funds and with family support.

What is your goal?

DF: That no one leaves hungry, ever.

What advice would you give someone who is opening up their own small business?

DF: Do as much research as possible on the venture you embark on.

4709 W Yellowstone HWY  |  307-577-5213


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