Just because you haven't heard of a restaurant before doesn't mean it's not delicious. Sometimes, all the fancy frills and advertisements distract visitors from what's really important. (Which is the food, of course. Case in point: these ‘Hole In The Wall’ Restaurants In Ohio That Will Blow Your Taste Buds Away.) The following are 12 of some of the best little known restaurants in Ohio that you won't find in big cities. According to locals, these places are absolutely worth the search.
1. Jay's Famous Hot Dogs (Youngstown)
This delightful dive features some pretty epic chili dogs, chili cheese fries and gyros. (Yes, gyros.) Check it out for yourself at 68 Boardman Canfield Rd., Youngstown, OH 44512. To learn more, visit their Facebook page here.
2. K's Hamburger Shop (Troy)
Where the burgers are delicious, the crinkle cut fries are just a few bucks, and the pies are plentiful, this seat-yourself diner is a must if you really want to eat like a local. You can find K's Hamburger Shop at 117 E Main St.,
Troy, OH 45373. To learn more, visit their website here.
3. Peach's Place (Crooksville)
A beloved eatery among locals, this is the perfect place to stop for homemade meals and pizza, depending on what you're in the mood for. (Tip: It's usually best to go with the daily special.) Peach's Place is located at 121 E Main St., Crooksville, OH 43731. To learn more, visit their Facebook page here.
4. Two Cousin's Pizza (Mansfield)
You've never had pizza options like this before. Choose from Buffalo Chicken, Coney Dog, Reuben, Mac 'n Cheese and other unconventional options—or just order a classic style of pizza—and brace yourself for the deliciousness. (Also, try the Stromboli. Make the room. You won't regret it.) Visit Two Cousin's Pizza at 103 N Main St., Mansfield, OH 44902. To learn more, visit their website here.
5. Mike's Dairy Bar (Upper Sandusky)
"Home of the Mighty Mike," this local dive serves up some of the area's best ice cream, as well as delicious burgers, sandwiches and hot dogs. It is located at 129 N Warpole St., Upper Sandusky, OH 43351. To learn more, visit their Facebook page here.
6. Rod's Capricorn Inn Restaurant (Wilmington)
At this beloved local dive, we recommend The Rod Burger (pictured) with a side of onion rings. (You can thank us later.) Check it out at 6660 State Rt. 730
Wilmington, OH 45177. To learn more, visit their Facebook page here.
7. Bud's Pizza (Minster)
You'll find more than just delicious pizza at this local favorite. (As well as an impressive beer selection.) Bud's Pizza is located at 6 S Main St., Minster, OH 45865. To learn more, visit their website here.
8. Fatheads Restaurant (Republic)
This classic hole-in-the-wall eatery features some of the most mouthwatering burgers you will ever have the pleasure of devouring. They also serve exceptional homemade pizza, fresh cut steaks and daily specials. Fatheads Restaurant is located at 216 Washington St., Republic, OH 44867. To learn more, visit their website here.
9. The Scioto Ribber (Portsmouth)
At this local favorite steakhouse, you can watch your steak cook on one of the five wood-fired grills out back. (FYI: A "small" steak is 16 oz. and a "large" steak is 32 oz.) The Scioto Ribber is located at 1024 Gallia St., Portsmouth, OH 45662. To learn more, visit their website here.
10. Blue Ash Chili (Blue Ash, Mason and Tri-County)
With three locations in the Cincinnati area, this beloved deli and chili parlor has been serving up exceptional chili (and cheese) smothered creations since 1969. Visit them at 9565 Kenwood Rd, 4200 Aero Drive, or 11711 Princeton Pike. To learn more, visit their website here.
11. Arch & Eddie's (Jackson)
This beloved local favorite features a variety of American, Italian, Mexican and seafood cuisine at affordable prices. The atmosphere is cozy, and the house setting will make you feel right at home. Arch & Eddies is located at 181 E Main St., Jackson, OH 45640. To learn more, visit their Facebook page here.
12. Scooter's World Famous Dawg House (Mentor)
Visit this local favorite to try The Scooter Dawg, (made with cheese sauce, coney sauce, ketchup, mustard, relish and onion.) You'll be so glad you did. (And we'll take the credit for it.) Scooter's World Famous Hot Dawg House is located at 9600 Blackbrook Rd., Mentor, OH 44060. To learn more, visit their website here.
Have you ever been to any of the best little known restaurants in Ohio? If so, let us know what your experience was like! And if you know another incredible place to enjoy a meal, nominate it for a chance to be featured.
And be sure to check out our previous article, The Best ‘Hole In The Wall’ Restaurants In Ohio That Will Blow Your Taste Buds Away.
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