LAS VEGAS (KLAS) — Staff and crew were serving up smiles as they prepared to open the doors of the Blooming Bistro in the central Las Vegas valley.

It’s more than just a restaurant as it provides workforce training and skills for young adults like Jennifer Briones to overcome obstacles like mental health challenges and substance abuse.

“I got into trouble with the law and I was using too much and that’s when I went into Mission high school and they guided me and I was guided to Sam and they really helped me out,” Briones said.

Blooming Bistro Co-Owner Samantha Steele is familiar with these struggles.

“I drank and used for 25 years and then I found my own pathway to recovery and ever since then it has completely changed my life in all areas,” Steele explained.

It’s why she decided to open the restaurant on Rancho Drive and Charleston Boulevard. Her parents once owned The Aristocrat restaurant in the same plaza and with hospitality running through their veins, the Blooming Bistro is Steele’s way of giving back.

“I think just the feel good about it all is why everybody has jumped on board and mostly it’s just seeing the young adults that we’re serving literally blooming everyday, they come in is the greatest gift possible,” Steele remarked.

From the colorful décor to messages of aspirations, she wants to serve hope in every bite.

Diego Ramos said he’s thankful for the second chance as he was constantly getting into trouble, was even kicked out of school and placed on probation.

“I didn’t have many people to go to other than my mom and my family of course but there was only so much they could do and to know there’s people like Sam and Mark and other programs to helps kids in my same position, it’s aspiring and motivating and makes me want to work here that much more,” Ramos beamed.

“Four cornerstones to recovery are home, health, community, and purpose and to build upon that foundation is everything the Blooming Bistro is and offers,” Steele added.

Steele is also looking for community partnerships, sponsorships and referrals to help improve the lives of these young adults. If you would like to help, you can email Steele at sam@bloomingbistronv.com.

The Blooming Bistro is open Monday to Friday 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., with last kitchen orders at 6:30 p.m.

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