This Xenia establishment is saving a seat for everyone at their table

Food insecurity is a problem plaguing many communities throughout the country. One Bistro, part of the faith-based nonprofit Biznistry, is making an effort to combat it right here in the Dayton region.

“At our core is a place from which we strive to serve a healthy, affordable meal to our neighbors—those who have the ability to pay and those who under normal circumstances, would not be able to eat out at a local restaurant,” says One Bistro President Denise Davis. “Our mission is to provide a place where our neighbors eat and come together as one community.” 

The inspiration for One Bistro arose from an organization’s desire to fight back against food

Today’s economy isn’t always the most forgiving to those who are less fortunate than others, but One Bistro doesn’t want that to mean they should do without.

“At One Bistro, no one walks away hungry unless they choose to,” says Davis. “Everybody eats, all are welcome and there is a place at our table for everyone.” 

Davis says the heart behind the mission at One Bistro is its group of volunteers. Some are simply looking for a place to serve others while others come in groups representing a place of business, church or civic organization. 

“We are very grateful for our faithful donors, those that pay-it-forward, our table sponsors and those who sponsor our mid-week complimentary Community Meal,” she says. “Grants also make a big difference in our ability to continue to feed our neighbors at a suggest $6-9 meal price and to bless those who are unable to pay.” 

The menu at One Bistro features a variety of sandwiches, fresh salads and gourmet pizzas.

“Our soups and salad dressings are all homemade and our fries are hand cut,” says Davis. “Saturday is brunch—classic eggs Benedict, hearty omelets, French toast, biscuits and gravy and more. We are a scratch kitchen and strive to use fresh, local ingredients whenever possible. Love is the special ingredient that goes into every meal served.” 

The prices on the menu are suggested and truly are pay-what-you-can.

“You can pay what you can afford and if you are unable to pay anything, you are welcome to volunteer an hour in exchange for your meal,” says Davis. “You can also choose to pay the full amount of the suggested price, or pay the full suggested price plus extra to pay-it-forward so someone else can eat. When you pay-it-forward $6, you cover the cost of one meal for someone else to enjoy.”

One Bistro, 87 E. Main St., Xenia. W 11 a.m.-2 p.m. & 5-7 p.m., Th-F 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Sa 8 a.m.-2 p.m., closed Su-Tu. 937-736-2358, onebistro.org