The Plae Bistro philosophy was started by restaurateur Jill Bassett when she not only created an acronym for “A Place to Laugh and Eat” but fashioned the idea of a bistro serving contemporary American cuisine, that would be equally at home in New York as it is in Green Bay. In 2007, she achieved her goal with the opening of Plae Bistro.
At Plae, we let you enjoy our casual, laid back atmosphere by taking care of every last detail. From our health-conscious, lunch and dinner items, to the collection of fine wines and the full bar, to the high level of service and the warm and inviting décor—we make sure that all you need to do is relax and enjoy. And don’t worry if you’ve never been to our restaurant, because our warm welcome and highly attentive wait staff will make you feel like a regular in no time.
During warmer weather, we invite you to dine in the shade of our patio. Summer’s too short to miss our outdoor dining experience.
I was born and raised in Wausau, Wisconsin, graduated from D.C. Everest High school. I graduated Le Cordon Bleu in Minneapolis in the top 5% of my class. After graduation, I did an internship at Christians Bistro where I worked with renown Chef Christian Czerwonka. A culinary degree was not originally my plan heading out of high school, I ended up attending UW- Eau Claire for three years before I decided to switch my career path. Working a 9-5 job was not what I had in mind and is ultimately why I changed my mind. I grew up in the kitchen any chance I could get especially with my mom and grandmas, I always was right by their side. I began to realize my passion about food and knack for coming up with creative and artistic dishes while I was creating meals 10 roommates in college. The following semester I transferred my credits to Le Cordon Bleu and have never looked back. After working 8 years with the company I helped open and run two more restaurants. It was at this time that I met my lovely wife Kelly who has been by my side for the last 7 years on various culinary adventures. After winning Taste of the Town-Best Entree dish two years in a row we then decided to move to Green Bay to work with Jill. The following year Kelly and I got married!! I am extremely passionate about French, Asian and specifically Creole cuisines. When I am not at work, you can find me at the golf course or local bowling alley with great friends, several of which I work hand-in-hand with everyday. None of us could do this work without a great staff, and it is for this reason that we are much more of a family than coworkers. Cheers!!
A native of Green Bay and the Owner of Plae Bistro, Jill Bassett has created a dining experience second to none in Green Bay. Inspired by Jill’s travels, Plae Bistro’s contemporary style, subdued elegance and energetic vibe are reminiscent of popular eateries on the coasts.
Jill’s expertise in the restaurant and catering industry started at age 16 when she took on her first job and enjoyed her shifts in the kitchen. While putting herself through college Jill gained lots of restaurant experience by bartending, serving, catering and event coordinating. After college and earning her degree in Marketing, Jill spent time working for the American Red Cross where she continued to develop her outstanding commitment to serving others. Always hoping to return to the hospitality industry, Jill accepted the position of Catering Manager at with a local catering company and helped maintain a very successful catering operation.
When Jill isn’t greeting her guests, hosting or bartending, she is responsible for overall business management, catering, food preparation supervision, marketing, public relations and philanthropy.
As a 17 year veteran of the restaurant and catering industry, Jill’s vision has been to create a dining experience that emphasizes quality, freshness, authentic recipes and menu innovation at affordable prices. Her hard work and dedication has already been recognized and rewarded. Plae Bistro has been the recipient of numerous awards including: The 2007 Green Bay Chamber Business Expo People’s Choice for Best Appetizer; the 2008 Urban Hope Shooting Star Business Award; Bank Mutual’s Business of the Month in December 2007 and the Independent Restaurant Association’s Best Dining Experience of 2008.
Sous Chef
Bar Manager