Getting cheeky with Sweet Cheekz Café N Bistro owner Tiffany Perry

Rooted in a passion for positivity, kindness, and high-quality coffee, Sweet Cheekz Café N Bistro founder Tiffany Perry shares the inspiration behind her new business's creation, the story of its unique name, and her mission to foster genuine connections in the local community.

Dive into this Q&A to learn more about how Sweet Cheekz Café N Bistro is making an impact—one cup of coffee at a time.

What inspired you to start Sweet Cheekz Café N Bistro?
I was inspired to start Sweet Cheekz Café N Bistro because of my passion for creating warm and welcoming spaces where people can connect and feel part of a community. I wanted to foster a "pay-it-forward" spirit that sparks positivity, kindness, and genuine connection over a cup of high-quality coffee.

Can you share the story behind the name of your café? 
The name "Sweet Cheekz Café N Bistro" reflects the café's warm, inviting, and slightly playful personality. It's meant to evoke a sense of comfort, sweetness, and familiarity, like sharing a cozy moment with a friend or family member.

Sweet Cheekz FacebookHow would you describe the atmosphere and vibe of Sweet Cheekz Café N Bistro?
The atmosphere at Sweet Cheekz Café N Bistro is cozy, community-centered, and inviting. It's a place where people can come to relax, work, or meet friends, with warm lighting, natural wood finishes, and locally inspired decor that makes everyone feel at home.

What makes your café unique compared to other places in the area?
Sweet Cheekz Café N Bistro stands out through its community-centric approach, locally sourced ingredients, and a digital-first strategy that makes ordering and loyalty programs seamless. We also host events, support local artisans, and offer a seasonal menu that highlights regional flavors, making it a true Sandusky gem.

How do you hope Sweet Cheekz Café N Bistro will impact the local community?
I hope Sweet Cheekz Café N Bistro becomes a hub for connection and positivity in Sandusky. By supporting local suppliers, hosting community events, and creating a welcoming space, I want the café to bring people together and uplift the community as a whole.

What’s your vision for the future of the café?
My vision is for Sweet Cheekz to grow into a staple of the Sandusky community, eventually expanding to new locations and offering additional services like catering and online sales. I also want to continue supporting local causes and fostering meaningful connections with our customers.

Do you have a personal favorite item on the menu? 
My personal favorite is the seasonal, locally inspired latte. It’s the perfect representation of what Sweet Cheekz Café N Bistro is about—celebrating local flavors and creating something memorable for our guests.

How does your background influence the café's concept and menu?
With over 20 years in the service and coffee industries, I’ve learned what makes for an exceptional customer experience. My love for coffee culture and commitment to quality and sustainability directly influence the café's artisanal menu and its welcoming, community-first concept.

What do you hope customers take away from their experience at Sweet Cheekz Café? 
I hope customers leave Sweet Cheekz Café N Bistro feeling uplifted, inspired, and connected, not just to the café but to the Sandusky community. I want them to feel like they’ve been part of something special and can’t wait to come back.

Is there anything else you’d like the community to know?
Sweet Cheekz Café N Bistro is more than just a café; it’s a movement to bring kindness and connection into our everyday lives. Every cup of coffee supports local farmers and artisans, and every visit helps us give back to the community.

How can people best stay updated on your offerings and events?
People can follow us on Instagram and Facebook for updates on seasonal menu items, community events, and special promotions. We also send out a monthly newsletter that customers can sign up for on our website. Sweet Cheekz is located at 217 E. Water St., Sandusky.

Read more articles by Beth Werling.

A graduate of the Missouri School of Journalism, Beth has taught English Language Arts in the Sandusky City School district for 19 years, as well as writing and journalism courses through BGSU Firelands since 2006. Previously, Beth was the business reporter and city editor of the local newspaper and managing editor of a local entertainment publication. If you have a story to share, email Beth at [email protected].