SOAP LAKE - The Sundial Bistro's soft opening was Friday, from about 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Its introduction to the public comes after three friends were sold on Soap Lake's possibilities.

Owner Carrie Farrell met Debra Gravelle, of Team Up Real Estate, through her other business of remodeling homes for banks.

Farrell's boyfriend and the bistro's other owner, Marc Goings, recalls his introduction to Gravelle and her husband, Soap Lake Mayor Raymond Gravelle.

"Their positive upbeat attitude really rubbed off on us and they showed us this building," Goings said.

At the time, Goings and the bistro's executive chef, Spencer Peet, were laid off from their jobs for the winter.

Raymond Gravelle showed Goings and Peet around town.

Goings and Peet, longtime best friends, liked what they saw. It was decided they would remodel the building at 332 E. Main Ave.

They started gutting the building Jan. 3 and a few months later, the remodel was complete.

Peet commented how the whole scenario laid out, with the mayor, the people and the location.

Peet is now focusing on the menu, which offers breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Today's soft opening features a shortened menu.

Dinner offerings typically include baby back ribs, filet mignon, pepper steak, salmon and pasta.

Except for a few salad dressings, they offer menu items gluten-free, including a gluten-free macaroni and cheese.

Goings commented how friendly and helpful Soap Lake's residents are. Just when he needed something during the remodel, someone would appear and lend him a tool.

"It has happened multiple times," Goings said.

Farrell said she's lived in a town that didn't offer that kind of help.

"I didn't realize how much we were missing out on community," she said.

She, Goings and Peet met the owner of Don's Restaurant, Marina Romary.

They discussed the possibility of working together on musical events in the summer. Don's Restaurant is also located on Main Street.

Other plans for the Sundial Bistro include adding outdoor seating, a deck and a children's menu.

Goings said he was excited about the lot on the next block turning into a huge community garden with a farmer's market in the center.  It offers the restaurant a place to buy fresh produce.

Farrell said all three of them have worked in the restaurant industry for many years and are very like-minded in how the service should be.

When possible, they work with customers to offer non-menu items.

At another business, Goings waited tables while Peet worked as the chef.

The business is a family affair, with Goings' and Farrell's children helping in different aspects.

Goings' son Derrion and daughter, Kansas Haugen, will assist at the restaurant.

Farrell's son, Alexander Donnolo, completed graphic design work, helped with the sign and some of the construction early on.

The grand opening is set for Friday, April 6, from 6 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.

For more information, call 509-246-1400.