A restaurant bucket list is a wonderful thing to have, and if you have yet to make one of your own, you can use our list of the best restaurants in Ohio as a jumping off point! All throughout Ohio there are delicious, unique eateries offering one-of-a-kind cuisine and atmospheres. The following are 18 of our favorite restaurants in the Buckeye State, and they are arguably the best places to eat in Ohio. Don’t believe us? Well, we think you should make a point to try them all! (You can thank us later.)
With an array of specialty sandwiches and several shop locations in Columbus and Cleveland, this sandwich joint has made quite an impression on locals, and is undoubtedly one of the best restaurants in Ohio. Melt Bar and Grill won "Best Sandwich of 2015" in both the Columbus Alive Magazine and Cleveland Scene Magazine. In addition to mouthwatering sandwiches, this shop is known for its "Melt Challenge," which features more than 5 lbs. of food; composed of 13 different cheeses, three slices of grilled bread and a pile of hand-cut fries and slaw. (Pictured: "The Big Popper.")
Ohio’s oldest continuously operated hotel in Lebanon holds a unique dining experience, complete with antique furnishings and historic rooms upstairs where famous individuals such as Harriet Beecher Stowe and U.S. Presidents have stayed. The Golden Lamb is located at 27 S Broadway St., Lebanon, OH 45036.
If you take exit 165 off of Interstate 71, you'll find this iconic not-your-average diner. (Note: Michigan fans must park across the street.) Buckeye Express Diner is located at 810 State Rt. 97 W., Bellville, OH 44813.
For a truly epic chili dog, check out this iconic hot dog joint, with multiple locations in Toledo. A strange tradition of displaying autographed hotdog buns began here in 1972 when Jamie Farr of M*A*S*H signed a bun. While that bun is no longer in existence, today the cafe proudly showcases Styrofoam bun look-alikes signed by various celebrities, including five U.S. presidents. The original Tony Packo's is located at 1902 Front St., Toledo, OH 43605.
5. Covered Bridge Pizza Parlor - Various Locations
A unique and delicious pizza eating experience awaits you at this one-of-a-kind pizza restaurant. In addition to exceptional pizza, the salads and pepperoni stromboli are highly recommended. (Pictured is the North Kingsville location.)
With a menu item like the Thurmanator, how can The Thurman Café not be featured on "Man vs. Food?" This beloved Columbus burger and restaurant first appeared on the Travel Channel in 2008. Thurman's Cafe is located in Columbus' German Village at 183 Thurman Ave., Columbus, OH 43206.
7. Schmidt’s Sausage Haus and Restaurant - Columbus
In addition to the best genuine German cuisine around, this historic restaurant has an animated atmosphere complete with live German music on certain nights. You can also find this popular eatery in Columbus' German Village at 240 E Kossuth St., Columbus, OH 43206.
Both literally and figuratively, this is the spot to go to for a tasty, classic cheeseburger in Sidney. What started out as a chuck wagon more than 100 years ago is now a stationary old fashioned eatery that will make you feel like you've temporarily stepped foot into a Happy Day's episode. The Spot To Eat is located at 201 S Ohio Ave., Sidney, OH 45365.
This downtown Cleveland eatery is home to the best corned beef you can find in Ohio. (Fun fact: This beloved breakfast and sandwich joint appeared on Rachael Ray's "$40 a Day.") An early lunch around 11 a.m. is recommended here to avoid the lunch rush. Slyman's is open Monday - Friday from 6 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. It is located at 3106 St Clair Ave. NE, Cleveland, OH 44114.
Take in downtown Cincinnati's skyline at Primavista, an Italian eatery "where the food is as captivating as the view." Attire here is casual and walk-ins are welcome. Primavista is located at 810 Matson Pl, Cincinnati, OH 45204.
This low key restaurant serves up some of the Canton area's favorite foods: hotdogs, sandwichs, and burgers! (Be sure to get a side of the butter fries when you stop here). Heggy's Nut Shop is located at 3200 Tuscarawas St. W, Canton, OH 44708.
Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, this beloved Athens eatery features the area's best Mexican cuisine, made with fresh, local ingredients. On the weekends, business really picks up, so expect a wait. If the wait is too long for you, we suggest grabbing a seat on the bodega side. Casa Nueva is located at 6 W State St., Athens, OH 45701.
At the The Scioto Ribber, a 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.
The Ewers Barn is home to Strip Steakhouse, where guests can enjoy an exceptional meal while they observe the unique architecture and history of the barn, which dates back to 1851. Strip Steakhouse is located at 36840 Detroit Rd., Avon, OH 44011.
For the best sushi of your life and what might be the most authentic omakase experience in Ohio, head over to this small sushi and yakitori spot in downtown Toledo. Be sure to come early or call ahead. (Reservations can be made for omakase only.) Kengo Sushi & Yakitori is open Tuesday - Saturday from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. It is located at 38 S Saint Clair St., Toledo, OH 43604.
With slow, southern cooked meats and sides made from scratch every day, family-owned and operated Seven Miles Smokehouse serves up some exceptional barbecue. Pictured is "The Mad Dog" with pulled smoked chicken, beef brisket and pulled pork, topped with grilled onions, sauce and creamy signature cole slaw. Currently, Seven Miles Smokehouse operates as a food truck, so be sure to call (740) 851-4015 for the location.
Pier W, a Cleveland-area landmark and one of the best Ohio restaurants, is suspended over Lake Erie to give customers a cruise-like dining experience. The unique waterfront restaurant serves up exceptional seafood and offers lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch.
advertisement
Have you been to any of these restaurants? Is so, would you agree that they are among the best places to eat in Ohio? What (and where) is your picks for the best places to eat in Ohio? Share your thoughts, recommendations and experiences with us so we can add to the list of the best restaurants in Ohio!
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
advertisement
Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
advertisement
If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
Remember when eating for under $10 a person wasn't an enormous feat? Less than a decade ago, it felt like you could buy a complete meal with a tenner and still have enough money left over to buy yourself a little treat.
Well, I'm here to tell you that in Girard, Ohio, those days are still here! At Jib Jab Hot Dog Shoppe, there are five full meals on the menu that cost less than ten dollars, with drinks included.
Look, the food at this Ohio hot dog joint ain't fancy, but it doesn't need to be. There's something to be said about limiting a menu so that every single thing on it shines.
That's precisely what Jib Jab Hot Dog Shoppe has done. Their menu includes little more than hot dogs, sandwiches, and chicken tenders. However, when they are as good as reviewers say they are, is there a need for much more than that?!
This cute Ohio hot dog joint has been bringing families together for cheap eats since 1946. Since its inception, Jib Jab Hot Dog Shoppe has made a point of serving locally sourced ingredients, believing that "there is a direct connection between how freshly prepared your food is and how it tastes."
I wholeheartedly agree!
The chili for your hot dogs is made fresh and the potatoes are cut in-house the same morning you eat them. And the bun? Well, that was baked the night before, fresh and ready to showcase your choice of simple meat and toppings.
In addition to some pretty incredible full-meal deals, this small-town hot dog shop has offerings with the whole family in mind. On Mondays, kids eat free - with some limitations, of course. And every single other day, Jib Jab Hot Dog Shoppe offers some fantastic family meal deals - including an 8-pack of Wagyu beef hog dogs and a family-sized french fry for under $40. That's impressive!
The inexpensive meal options are just one of the things we love about the great state of Ohio. In fact, we love it so much we think it oughta be celebrated as often as possible. Why not in the Wear your Roots?
advertisement
What's your favorite spot for cheap eats in Ohio? Tell us about it in the comments!
