Updated: 6:52 PM EST January 6, 2021
PORT CLINTON, Ohio This pandemic has been devastating to so many businesses and communities. But one northwest Ohio city says in some ways, it s actually better off because of it. Meals on Madison was a solution to make sure downtown Port Clinton bars and restaurants could remain open during the pandemic lockdown. What started as an improvisation was so successful that it may now become an annual fixture. The best year we ve ever had! It was like a happy accident, a perfect storm, said Bill Rigoni, owner of Northern Exposure.
Last year, Meals on Madison became an instant success for Port Clinton as lunch and dinner crowds had a safe outdoor space to eat their meals or enjoy a drink with a block of Madison Street shut down to traffic.