Downtown restaurant celebrates anniversary

CHILLICOTHE— Downtown Chillicothe is full of locally-owned shops where everyone can find something they like but there is only one place where guests can dine on international cuisine.

This is why many nights you will see happy and full customers leaving Gustavo's International Cuisine having just finished a meal.

Gustavo's is owned and run by a family who likes to bring that family environment to customers and workers. After visiting the restaurant a few times they say you become part of this family. This environment helps the homemade food feel more like a family dinner.

Gustavo's recently celebrated its first anniversary on Thursday. During the celebration, the Chillicothe Ross Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon-cutting where Mike Throne, director and CEO of the chamber, thanked the business owners for coming downtown.

"It's always good to have people coming downtown and bringing variety," said Throne.

Last year when the restaurant opened Noah Torres, general manager, promised to bring "the best of the best" to Chillicothe. They offer a large menu filled with meals from around the world. Along with serving all three meals of the day Gustavo's also offers unique specials, house-made drinks and craft beer.

Torres says this past year has been a "wild ride." He is excited to continue to grow downtown. Right now the restaurant is looking at changing up menus and the bar.

Owner Shelia Torres says she enjoys being downtown and the community it brings. Gustavo's has also been able to help the community while downtown. Whether it be supporting projects to help the homeless or donating to support a local cause Gustavo's has been happy to help.

"We try to be as involved as we can," said Torres.

You can visit Gustavo's International Cuisine at 85 N Paint Street or on their Facebook page. The restaurant is also available to host private parties or cater special events.

Shelby Reeves is a reporter for the Chillicothe Gazette. You can email her at SReeves@gannett.com or follow her on Twitter @Shelby_Reeves_