Did you know tucked away in the part of Port Clinton known as the Sutton Center is a lovely restaurant known as Bistro 163?
Bistro 163 was founded with the goal of increasing food security in Ottawa County and providing a safe space for community gathering. The restaurant is once more located at 1848 E. Perry St in Port Clinton which is on State Route 163.
The name Bistro 163 comes from its location and also harkens back to Proverbs 16:3 which speaks to committing one’s work to the lord. It leads from August 2015 when people from the community, along with representatives from several different churches came together to create Bistro 163. While not a religious organization, it’s built on biblical principals. The restaurant is actually inspired by another pay-it-forward restaurant named One Bistro located in Southern Ohio, opened with one full time employee and a team of dedicated volunteers. Quickly, it grew in recognition and gained popularity for its unique model and commitment to serving the community.
Bistro 163, opened in June 2016, is a unique restaurant in the fact that instead of having a set price per item it is a pay-it-forward restaurant. Pay-it-forward is actually a fairly simple concept; those who can pay are encouraged to pay a little more and those who can’t are encouraged to volunteer their time. The restaurant was born out of a simple mission; to nourish both body and soul, providing a welcoming environment for all while working to increase food security and build a community.
Since its opening Bistro 163 has served thousands of meals to hundreds or people as well as generating volunteer hours, making a difference in their day to day lives with no questions asked. They also offer free community dinners twice a month, with both carryout and delivery options, both of which they adopted as well during the pandemic. By adopting this model and these services Bistro 163 was able to ensure continued access to meals for those in need.
Bistro 163 has deservedly received numerous awards and accolades including being named, “Best Non-Profit” in the Beacon’s annual “Best of the Best” contest. The city has even gone so far as declaring June 6 as Bistro 163 day, celebrating the restaurant, its mission and its staff annually. In June 2025 Bistro 163 celebrated its 9th anniversary, highlighting its continued commitment to the 
community.
Bistro 163 since its opening has relied on donations, volunteers, and community support to operate. Their general manager and their cook are their only paid employees, everyone else on the staff are dedicated volunteers. This restaurant shows what can happen when passionate employees as well as volunteers in a giving community come together for a meaningful goal started with just a few people and belief in others.
In conclusion, Bistro 163 serves as not only that symbol, but as a symbol of hope to our community, towards ourselves and towards anyone this restaurant has instilled that hope in.
