Ohio hides some incredible food treasures that often fly under the radar, known mostly to locals who cherish them. These aren’t the kind of spots with starched white tablecloths or long wine lists—instead, they’re small, sometimes unassuming joints where the charm comes from character rather than polish.
What they lack in décor, they more than make up for in flavor and hospitality. From mom-and-pop diners serving hearty breakfasts to corner taverns dishing out legendary sandwiches, these places embody comfort food at its best.
When Ohioans crave authenticity, they skip the upscale scene and head straight for these cherished hole-in-the-wall gems.
1. The Thurman Cafe’s Legendary Burgers
Tucked away in Columbus’ German Village, this tiny burger joint serves mountains of beef that barely fit in your hands. The Thurmanator challenge has been featured on TV, but locals come for the relaxed atmosphere and juicy burgers without the cameras…