Classic Steak and Potatoes

Midwestern cuisine takes pride in top-quality beef and potatoes, favorites locals never tire of. Classic steak houses like Hyatt’s and R V’s Restaurant grill up expertly aged prime cuts. Small town diners and taverns serve satisfying burgers and roast beef sandwiches. Polish Boys feature kielbasa over fries.

And of course, what would a hearty Midwestern meal be without potatoes? Potatoes appear mashed, fried, baked and roasted across the state. Potato skillets and hash browns start days right. Mrs. Yoder’s Kitchen makes potato donuts. Ohioans balance meat and potatoes with fresh veggies and salads from local farms. Comforting, filling classics never fall from favor.

Italian Classics

From pizza and pasta to subs and cannoli, Italian restaurants thrive in Ohio hubs like Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati and Dayton. Local spins on Parmigiano Reggiano meatballs, chicken piccata, and spaghetti and meatballs draw loyal regulars. Pizzerias supply steaming thin or thick crust pies loaded with toppings and cheese.

Italian desserts like tiramisu, gelato and biscotti conclude meals on a sweet note. Upscale Northern Italian restaurants pair Cabernet Sauvignon with Osso Bucco. Casual trattorias offer lasagne and bruschetta with a carafe of Chianti. Whatever the price point, Italian fare from pasta to gelato delivers cherished flavors.

Mexican and Latin Flair

Ohio benefits from a growing Latin American population, with authentic Mexican restaurants blossoming. Mom and pop taquerias serve up tacos al pastor, carnitas, cochinita pibil and handmade tortillas. Chile rellenos, tamales and mole poblano transport diners south of the border. Margaritas and Mexican lagers wash everything down festively.

Salvadoran pupusas, Peruvian ceviche and Brazilian steakhouses add more Latin flair. Food trucks park curbside slinging Mexico City-style tacos and more. Latino groceries stock spices and ingredients to try at home. Vibrant Latin communities generously share their food heritage.

Classic Diners and Drive-Ins

Retro diners and drive-ins remain gems treasured by locals. These laidback eateries sling homestyle blue-plate specials, patty melts, club sandwiches, pie and milkshakes. Swing in for eggs sunny side up, biscuits and country gravy any time of day. Old-fashioned soda fountains serve phosphates, malts and egg creams.

Drive-ins like Swensons peddle double cheeseburgers and onion rings to patrons in cars. Clifton Mill’s old woolen mill houses a mouthwatering bakery downstairs. Legendary Sugarcreek Restaurant draws crowds for Amish cooking. With neon signs and jukeboxes, classic diners deliver nostalgic comfort.

Farm-to-Table Fare

Ohioans increasingly seek restaurants supporting local agriculture and food purveyors. Seasonal menus let fresh produce and meats shine, from sweet corn and berries to grass-fed beef. Upscale establishments like Table 45 in Cleveland creatively transform local ingredients under the guidance of renowned chefs. Others like Brown Bag Deli simply highlight quality local ingredients in sandwiches.

Many restaurants partner with family farms for ingredients or even operate their own gardens. Food cooperatives expand access to sustainably raised meats, eggs and dairy. Menus proudly list the sources supplying that evening’s heirloom carrots, cage-free eggs or dry-aged sirloin. Farm-to-table dining sustains communities.

Brewpubs and Craft Beers

Craft breweries constitute a booming industry across Ohio. Once the beer capital of the world, Cincinnati remains a major hub. But every region celebrates distinctive local brewmasters. Brewpubs pair homemade drafts with burgers, wings and other pub grub. Craft beer trails guide visitors to sample Ohio’s IPAs, sours, stouts and more. After a filling farm-to-table dinner, some opt for a nightcap at the casino trying their luck at live baccarat.

Major cities host festivals showcasing beers and ciders. Restaurants allow build-your-own flights for tasting. Local ingredients even make beer unique, like Great Lakes Brewing using Cleveland honey. Small batches keep improving with originality. Pairing creative brews and meals encourages slowing down to savor.

Amish Country Cooking

Northeast Ohio offers quintessential Amish country cuisine, from made-from-scratch pies to family-style feasts. In Berlin, Mrs. Yoder’s Kitchen dishes comforts like pot pie and strawberry rhubarb pie. Der Dutchman serves skillet-fried chicken alongside mashed potatoes with chicken gravy and green beans. Walnut Creek Cheese whips up grilled cheese sandwiches. Elsewhere like Hackman’s Bakery scents the air with fresh cinnamon rolls and other Amish baked goods.

Weekend crowds flock for hearty breakfasts and Amish specialties. Old-fashioned general stores stock jams, pickles and baked items to take home. Simple, delicious cooking the Amish way makes for cherished memories.

Urban Global Flavors

Ohio cities offer culinary diversity rivaling any global destination. Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati and Dayton feature Chinatowns and Koreatowns with restaurant gems. Little Italy carries on traditions in Cleveland and Columbus. Polish and Serbian ethnic enclaves serve comforting Old World dishes.

In more diverse neighborhoods, mom and pop eateries dish out Ethiopian injera, Brazilian feijoada or Lebanese shawarma platters. Food halls like Cleveland West Side Market gather flavors under one roof. Fusion restaurants blend cuisines into marinated ribs tacos or bulgogi pizza. Sampling leaves taste buds thrilled.

Sweet Indulgences

No trip to Ohio feels complete without giving in to a sweet treat. Iconic ice cream parlors like Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams craft artisan bold flavors using Ohio grass-grazed milk. Graeter’s handcrafts French pot ice creams in small batches. Creamies serve soft serve cones in Cincinnati.

In candy shops, Modaks Chocolates of Columbus invent new confections monthly. Marcia’s Buckeyes whips up their namesake treat using Ohio’s official state tree nut. Schmidt’s Sausage Haus makes cream puffs in German Village. Donut shops supply 24/7 glazed goodness. When a sugar fix calls, Ohio obliges.

Chef-Driven Innovations

Talented chefs drawn to Ohio’s thriving local food scene energize regional dining. Their scratch cooking and fearless flavors take Midwest tradition to new levels. Chef Jonathon Sawyer’s Cleveland restaurants like Greenhouse Tavern pioneered playful small plates and revived the city’s food reputation.

Younger star chefs like Josh Dalton bring fine dining to historical inns via The Merchant in Sharonville. Texas expat Tim Bando resurrected beef ribs in Columbus. Woman-owned June’s Northside kitchen blends Southern cuisine with Ohio sass. Following chefs’ journeys through pop-ups and food trucks to eventual brick and mortars reveals creativity flourishing.

Relaxing Mealtime Rituals

Food lovingly prepared fortifies body and spirit. The communal table at Young’s Jersey Dairy transports guests back to simpler times over family-style fried chicken. Cozy mom and pop restaurants build rapport with regulars. Meals here feel more like reunions with old friends.

Chatting over hearty breakfasts starts days grounded no matter what comes. Slowing down for a long Italian dinner with wine connects us to heritage. Desserts prompt childlike wonder. At its best, dining together nourishes our humanity. Ohio’s one-of-a-kind eateries foster this nourishment through time-honored rituals.

Start Planning Your Taste Tour

Like a quilt of patchwork flavors, Ohio cuisine offers comfort with delightful surprises. Meat and potato staples share space with ethnic emergences and chef originals. Farm-to-table sustainable fare coexists with old-fashioned diners. Whether seeking the familiar or adventurous tastes, Ohio satiates every appetite.

Begin mapping nearby favorites to try or rediscover. Look for the hot new taco counter or hidden pierogi hub. Hit an apple orchard for fresh baked pies. Ask friends for beloved holes in the wall they swear by. Let Columbus-style Jeni’s Salty Caramel gelato melt away stress. Ohio’s diverse culinary treasures await your exploration. Just come hungry and ready to make memories over meals that become lifelong comforts.

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Tilton Hilton (Lakeview)

Where the burgers are bigger than your head and the floor is sloped, this local favorite is a fun, offbeat stop after a day at Indian Lake. You can even dock your boat right outside the restaurant. Tilton Hilton is located at: 10861 Country Rd, 293, Lakeview, OH 43331.

Boat house in Confluence Park (Columbus)

At the confluence of the Ohlentangy and Scioto Rivers, The Boat House overlooks the downtown Columbus skyline and is (oddly enough) the only restaurant in Columbus with a view of the city’s waterfront. It serves dinner, coffee, and drinks, and the restaurant doesn’t open until 5:00 pm daily. The Boat House at Confluence Park is located at 679 W Spring St., Columbus, OH 43215.

Cranberry Resort (Hunstville)

Located along a series of islands on Indian Lake, you’ll find this gem of a restaurant and bar. Cranberry Resort is located at 9667 State Route 368, Huntsville, OH 43324.

Boat Barbeque (Marietta)

This family-friendly barbecue spot along the Ohio River has won more than 12 awards for its exceptional ribs, wings, and chili. Boathouse BBQ is located at 218 Virginia St., Marietta, OH 45750.

Rafter’s Restaurant (Deer Creek State Park)

For dining in a more relaxed and secluded scenic setting, check out Rafter’s Restaurant, located in the Deer Creek Lodge and Conference Center complex at Deer Creek State Park. Enjoy bistro-style breakfast, lunch or dinner at this truly relaxing lakeside restaurant. Rafter’s Restaurant is located at 22300 State Park Road 20, Mt Sterling, OH 43143.

Paradise Bay Waterfront Grill & Bar (Rock Creek)

Mouthwatering burgers, a laid-back atmosphere, and pontoon rides await you at Paradise Bay Waterfront Grill & Bar. (Also order the chicken wings. You won’t regret it.) It’s located at 414 Geneva Pt., Roaming Shores, OH 44084.

Cabana on the River (Cincinnati)

This simple outdoor restaurant along the Ohio River is a popular spot for dinner and (sometimes) live entertainment. Come and experience one of the best patios in Ohio! Cabana on the River is located at 7445 Forbes Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45233.

Dockers Waterfront Restaurant and Bar (Kelleys Island)

Enjoy views of Lake Erie, from Cedar Point to Mouse Island, at this popular seafood spot on Kelleys Island. Known for its homemade crab cakes and lobster bisque, this restaurant offers the best of the best seafood. It is located at 114 W Lakeshore Dr., Kelleys Island, OH 43438.

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This romantic restaurant with gourmet French cuisine and fireside dining is a hidden gem that you simply must try. L’Albatros is a local favorite and an unexpected surprise for visitors. It is located at 11401 Bellflower Rd., Cleveland, OH 44106.

White Oaks Restaurant (Westlake)

The White Oaks Restaurant in Westlake, Ohio is a tranquil spot away from it all, and it’s much more than a restaurant. With floor-to-ceiling windows, six cozy fireplaces, and a romantic atmosphere, this beautiful restaurant is perfect for date nights or a casual weekend meal with family and friends. It is located at 777 Cahoon Rd., Westlake, OH 44145.

Miller’s Ale House (Columbus)

For the best burger you’ve ever tasted, mouthwatering appetizers, exceptional beer, and a cozy atmosphere, be sure to visit Miller’s Ale House. It is located at 1201 Olentangy River Rd., Columbus, OH 43212.

Spread Eagle Tavern & Inn (Hanoverton)

This historic inn was built in 1837 in the Federalist style by bricklayers who were engaged in the construction of the canal. Over the years, it has been visited by several US presidents. Today it is a cozy gathering place for locals and visitors alike. The Spread Eagle Tavern and Inn is located at 10150 Historic Plymouth St., Hanoverton, OH 44423.

Metropolis (Cincinnati)

With a “modern take on old fireplace cooking methods,” this restaurant cooks many of the dishes on its menu on a custom-built fireplace. Paired with craft beers and cocktails, the food here is simply divine. Metropole is located at 609 Walnut St., Cincinnati, OH 45202.

Golden Lamb (Lebanon)

Ohio’s oldest continuously operating hotel was founded in 1803 and has a unique dining experience complete with antique furniture, a cozy fireplace in the lobby, themed dining rooms, and historic rooms upstairs where famous people like Harriet Beecher Stowe and several US presidents have stayed. There are several dining rooms to choose from, including private dining rooms. The Golden Lamb is located at 27 S Broadway St., Lebanon, Ohio 45036.

Streetside 62 (Washington Courthouse)

The casual atmosphere of this farm-to-table bistro offers exceptional food made with local ingredients. Weather permitting, you can even enjoy a drink by the fireplace. Streetside 62 is located at 2007 Columbus Ave., Washington Court House, OH 43160.

Malabar Farm Restaurant (Lucas)

Nestled among the rolling hills of Pleasant Valley in Lucas, Ohio, is a perfect farm with an incredibly good restaurant. Malabar Farm Restaurant is located in a restored 1820s inn. Despite the gourmet French and home-style cuisine, the restaurant has a cozy atmosphere that makes you feel at home. The Pew House is another on-site restaurant with a fireplace in the colder months.

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If you’re looking for good dining in Ohio, you can never go wrong with Beau’s on the River. At the Sheraton Suites Akron/Cuyahoga Falls, you’ll find this hidden gem of a restaurant with a casual atmosphere, stunning views of the river rapids and falls, and floor-to-ceiling windows. Beau’s on the River is located at 1989 Front St., Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44221.

The Barn at Rocky Fork Creek (Gahanna)

This stylish, rustic steakhouse offers the finest hand-cut meats and seafood, as well as a bourbon bar. The Barn at Rocky Fork Creek is located at 1370 E. Johnstown Rd. in Gahanna, OH 43230.

The Golden Lamb (Lebanon)

Ohio’s oldest continuously operating hotel was founded in 1803 and has a unique dining experience, complete with antique furniture, a cozy fireplace in the lobby, themed dining rooms, and historic rooms upstairs where famous people like Harriet Beecher Stowe and several U.S. presidents have stayed. There are several dining rooms to choose from, including private dining rooms. Come and see why The Golden Lamb is one of the most stunning upscale restaurants in Ohio. The Golden Lamb is located at 27 S Broadway St., Lebanon, Ohio 45036.

Z Cucina di Spirito (Columbus)

With 341 reviews, this upscale Italian restaurant was ranked number one out of 1,821 restaurants in Columbus on Trip Advisor. (Pictured above: House-made Mozzarella Caprese.) It’s incredibly good and is located at 1368 Grandview Ave. in Columbus, OH 43212.

Mon Ami Restaurant and Winery (Port Clinton)

For truly exceptional seafood, wine, and other options, be sure to visit Mon Ami Restaurant and Winery, located at 3845 E Wine Cellar Rd., Port Clinton, OH 43452. (This photo is perfect for a night out.)

Mancy’s Steak House (Toledo)

With gorgeous 1920s vintage décor, limited fireside seating, and 364 reviews on Trip Advisor, this upscale coffeehouse has earned the top spot out of 575 restaurants in Toledo. It is located at 953 Phillips Ave., Toledo, OH 43612.

Hart Mansion restaurant (Minerva)

Tucked away on a picturesque hillside, you’ll find Hart Mansion Restaurant overlooking the small town of Minerva. The building is located on 4 beautiful rural acres and has a beautiful Italian architecture. Today, the 1869 mansion has been completely restored and transformed into an elegant, quiet restaurant. Hart Mansion Restaraunt is located at 411 N Main St., Minerva, OH 44657.

White Oaks Restaurant (Westlake)

Watch ducks cross Cahoon Creek and deer frolic through the trees at this gorgeous outdoor restaurant. Combine the outdoor views with floor-to-ceiling windows for delicious steakhouse-style cuisine and a vintage atmosphere.

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Miami County contains the seven wonders of foodie travel in Ohio. But it’s no surprise that family-owned specialty shops just know how to give you that extra touch that keeps you coming back again and again. A small town storefront is a joy in itself. Done right, it deserves to be snapped as a keepsake, like a new friend.

Olive Oasis in Troy, Ohio, has that kind of appeal. When you approach it from the sidewalk, you get a Mediterranean feel. Inside, you’re likely to meet its owner, Luke Schlumpf. He is in his early 20s. His mission is to provide the region with the best olive oils and balsamic vinegar. The wide assortment is much fresher than what you are likely to buy in the grocery store. In addition, you can taste dozens of options straight from the Fusti imported from Italy.

Bakehouse Bread & Cookie Company is located to the left of the hypnotic fountain and opposite the town square. Its founder and baker, Margaret Begg, is a true master at baking bread. She first experimented in her rural kitchen, then at the Culinary Institute of America in New York, and then at the National Baking Institute in Minneapolis.

Take a short walk in the countryside and relax against the backdrop of the scenery as you lead the way down a long, shaded road to a quaint little building next to the family home. As soon as you walk in, you’ll be greeted with a warm smile – probably Janet Rissinger’s. Her spice rack in West Milton, Ohio, is like visiting a friend to get that rare herb you know you can’t find anywhere else.

Some private businesses have succeeded. That’s what happened to Trophy Nut. In a residential alley near the center of Tipp City, there is an old brick building that serves as a factory store. Inside, you will feel 50 years of history. The large measuring spatulas used to fill chocolate-covered nuts in transparent containers, the old-fashioned scales for weighing your purchase, and the antique machines that distribute the treats are all relics of a bygone era.

But leave the heavenly confections for later. Now it’s time for a guilty indulgence around the corner at Sweet by Kristy. In front of the pretty shop, there’s a table with a couple of chairs that offers a picturesque view of one of Ohio’s most beautiful cities. Its sidewalks are always filled with pedestrians shopping. Many duck into the smallest spot, and inside, Christy usually has cupcakes in the oven. She says: “the best ingredients make the best cupcakes” and they are made from scratch every day! She even has gluten-free cupcakes. But that’s not all; she also has turtles, caramelized apples, ant pies, bakai, candy, and even dog treats. The place is colorful!

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The Butler County Donut Trail highlights small, family-owned donut shops and invites visitors to explore the county through donuts. With one donut shop for every 17,000 residents, a visit to the local donut shop is a favorite morning tradition in this southwest Ohio community.

The featured Donut Trail locations represent a combined 372 years of donut making experience. With a loyal fan base, Butler County doughnuts inspire loyalty.

“I would drive nine hours to get a Milton’s pink doughnut, and I would… because I live in Chesterfield, Virginia. There’s nothing better than sitting on my back porch with a couple Milton’s and a cup of coffee on a Saturday morning. I wish they had one in Richmond!” said Mike Bogan of Chesterfield, Virginia.

Capitalizing on the enthusiasm for these sweet donut confections was an easy choice for the Butler County Visitors Bureau.

“With the vast number of independent donut shops, creating the Donut Road was a fun way to highlight some of the unique and off-the-beaten-path businesses that make Butler County a great place to live and visit,” said Mark Hackett, Executive Director of the Butler County Visitors Bureau.

There are 12 donut shops participating along the route: Jupiter Coffee & Donuts, Kelly’s Bakery, Martin’s Donuts, Milton’s Donuts, Mimi’s Donuts & Bakery, Oxford Donut Shoppe, Ross Bakery, Stan the Donut Man, Central Pastry, Holman’s Donuts, The Donut House and The Donut Spot. At last count, more than 10,000 people have completed the route, including visitors from more than a dozen different countries, including Alaska and Hawaii.

“Kelly’s Bakery is thrilled to be a part of the Butler County Donut Trail. We can’t wait to welcome people to our store, our city, and our corner of the Midwest,” said Diane Ramsey, owner of Kelly’s Bakery.

The 80-mile Butler County route takes 4.5 hours to complete. A Donut Trail passport is available for donut lovers to register their journey. Each participating donut shop has a sticker with a code. Visitors who complete the passport with all the correct codes will receive a free Donut Trail T-shirt.

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Clay’s Café in Hebron, Ohio dates back to 1934. Their motto is “homemade with pride”. It is a nostalgic small-town diner located in the neighborhood. The atmosphere is created by the staff – friendly and helpful. And the comment of diners is in one word – delicious!

When West Main Street becomes more of a residential street, there is a modest yellow house with a sign in the foreground with a large colorful image of ice cream. The sign reads…

Pull up the driveway. Behind the house is a graceful yellow brick building with a red brick patio with pretty tables with umbrellas nestled next to floral flower beds. Inside is a historic ice cream parlor and diner.

Earl and Dorothy Cummins opened the Cummins Ice Cream shop here in 1934. The Clay family (Sherman and Evelyn) bought it and renamed it in 1979. And until 1997, it was known as County Fair Foods. They still serve Sherm’s fries, known as the famous “Fair Fries”. Their daughter Glenna and her husband Mark renamed the diner Clay’s Diner in honor of their family’s history and connection to the historic National Road. Today, it’s a place where families from several generations can be heard saying: “My dad used to bring me here when I was a kid.”

But the house specialty only appeared in 2000. Clay’s stromboli ignited the taste buds of a new generation. They fill pizza dough with pepperoni, sausage, and cheese. After it is baked, it is stewed in garlic sauce. And served with their signature pizza sauce.

The menu includes not only these famous fries, stromboli, and ice cream, but also a variety of options. These include classic pizza or pizza made with your own hands. A favorite of visitors is the Zach Susan. It features seasoned grilled chicken with ranch dressing, garlic sauce, and basil smothered in Swiss and mozzarella cheese. Be sure to have a napkin on hand. It’s delicious!

A favorite off the grill is their homemade pulled pork sandwich. This delight is cooked slowly and then drizzled with barbecue sauce on a fried ciabatta roll. It comes with a side of salad, but that salad takes a back seat! The solo, the solo is to die for!

They also offer your sub sandwiches, burgers that you make yourself, and lots of appetizers (try the deep fried cauliflower). The assortment of salads and homemade soups will get you started. And finally, we’ve completed the circle with ice cream, splits, sundaes, cocktails and cakes.

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