Write a commentLocated in Downtown Oswego, Bistro 197 has successfully expanded its size and services. Opened two years ago, the restaurant seized the opportunity to grow and solve a reoccurring problem when the place next door became vacant.
Bill Wadsworth, the managing partner at Bistro 197 explained that he noticed that although successful, the restaurant had a much wider potential that could not be realized in his current location; entertainment and a comfortable bar area.
"One of the most common statements about our dining room is wow, this is amazing, I can't wait to come back." Wadsworth said. "Opening the additional space gave us an opportunity to offer a casual atmosphere and a classy, kind of upscale hip bar but a place that you can also go a get a great plate of food."
An Oswego native, Wadsworth helped create new changes and additions such as a brand new bar and re-vamped menu.
"We now offer smaller plates. A lot more appetizers and better price points on the entrees have proved to be the right direction. Right now there's only one item on our menu that's over $20," Wadsworth said.
For the past two weeks since its expansion, the restaurant has incorporated live music performances and no longer requires reservations for parties under five. According to Wadsworth their goal is to feature original music on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. In the future, the schedule for shows will be available on their website, Bistro197.com. Their website is also on the process of re-vamping.
"We just want people to know that we are staying true to our 'from-scratch' cooking, using the freshest ingredients possible," Wadsworth said.
Bistro 197 is located on 197 West First Street and can be contacted at 315-343-2930. Bistro 197 features happy hour from 4pm to 6pm, Monday through Thursday 4pm to 10pm. " We are open Friday and Saturday at 4pm until well, we are pretty open to consumer demand for closing hours." Wadsworth said.
