Capitol Cafe Concession Bid

Background
The State of North Dakota, through its Office of Management and Budget (OMB), is seeking a transformative food service provider to operate the Capitol Cafe located on the ground floor of the State Capitol in Bismarck, ND. The goal is to create an outstanding coffee, beverage, and dining experience for state employees, legislators, and the visiting public. This contract is being procured as a concession under North Dakota Century Code (N.D.C.C.) Chapter 48-09.

Work Details
The awarded bidder must manage all functions of the Capitol Cafe food service program to provide quality full course meals, short-order food items, catering services, snack products, and beverages. The cafe must be open for business during all State working days from 7:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. (4:30 p.m. during Legislative Session). The operator must provide sandwich, snack, and beverage services to legislators and other entities holding meetings at the State Capitol.

The scope includes operating beverage and candy vending machines located throughout the Capitol and Judicial Wing. The operator must enhance the café into a destination offering that balances convenience, quality, innovation, and customer service with options including traditional hot meals, health-conscious options, local fare, and specialty coffee service.

Period of Performance
The contract term will be for two years starting from October 1, 2025, with two options to renew for additional two-year periods.

Place of Performance
The contract will be performed at the Capitol Cafe located on the ground floor of the State Capitol in Bismarck, ND.

Bidder Requirements
Bidders must be regularly established businesses properly registered with the North Dakota Secretary of State. They must comply with insurance requirements outlined in the lease agreement including commercial general liability insurance with minimum limits of $2 million per occurrence and workers' compensation coverage meeting statutory requirements. Additionally, bidders must demonstrate at least three years of professional experience in large-scale food service operations.