Creating a restaurant bucket list is an exciting endeavor, and if you haven’t started yours yet, our compilation of the top restaurants in Ohio can serve as a great inspiration! Across the state, you’ll find a diverse array of exceptional dining spots that present unique dishes and inviting atmospheres. Here are 18 of our top picks for restaurants in the Buckeye State, each one truly among the finest places to eat in Ohio. Still skeptical? We encourage you to visit them all, you can express your gratitude later!
1. Melt Bar and Grill – Various locations
With a diverse selection of gourmet sandwiches and multiple locations in both Columbus and Cleveland, this sandwich shop has truly resonated with the local community and stands out as a top dining choice in Ohio. Melt Bar and Grill was honored with the title of “Best Sandwich of 2015” by both Columbus Alive Magazine and Cleveland Scene Magazine. Beyond its delicious sandwiches, the establishment is famous for its “Melt Challenge,” featuring over 5 pounds of food, which includes 13 varieties of cheese, three slices of grilled bread, and a generous helping of hand-cut fries and coleslaw. (Pictured: “The Big Popper.”)
2. The Golden Lamb – Lebanon
The Golden Lamb, situated at 27 S Broadway St., Lebanon, OH 45036, is Ohio’s oldest continuously operating hotel. This charming establishment offers a distinctive dining experience, featuring vintage decor and historic rooms that have hosted notable figures, including renowned author Harriet Beecher Stowe and several U.S. Presidents.
3. Buckeye Express Diner – Bellville
Take exit 165 from Interstate 71, and you’ll discover a unique diner that stands out from the rest. (Attention, Michigan supporters: you’ll need to park across the street.) The Buckeye Express Diner can be found at 810 State Route 97 West in Bellville, Ohio, 44813.
4. Tony Packo’s – Toledo
If you’re in search of an unforgettable chili dog experience, look no further than this legendary hot dog establishment with several locations across Toledo. It all started in 1972 when Jamie Farr of MAS*H fame signed a hot dog bun, kicking off a quirky tradition. Although that original bun has long since disappeared, the restaurant now features a collection of Styrofoam replicas signed by a diverse array of celebrities, including five former U.S. presidents. The flagship Tony Packo’s can be found at 1902 Front St., Toledo, OH 43605.
5. Covered Bridge Pizza Parlor – Various Locations
Discover a distinctive and flavorful pizza dining experience at this extraordinary pizza spot. Along with their outstanding pizzas, be sure to try their salads and the pepperoni stromboli, which come highly recommended. (Featured here is the North Kingsville location.)
6. The Thurman Café – Columbus
The Thurman Café, famous for its iconic Thurmanator burger, is an undeniable highlight for the “Man vs. Food” show. This cherished eatery, nestled in the heart of Columbus, Ohio, made its debut on the Travel Channel back in 2008. Situated in the charming German Village neighborhood at 183 Thurman Ave., Thurman’s Café has since become a must-visit destination for burger enthusiasts and food lovers alike.
7. Schmidt’s Sausage Haus and Restaurant – Columbus
This charming restaurant offers not only authentic German dishes but also a vibrant ambiance featuring live German music on select evenings. Located at 240 E Kossuth St. in Columbus’ German Village, this popular spot is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the heart of German culture through its cuisine and lively atmosphere.
8. The Spot To Eat Restaurant – Sidney
If you’re on the hunt for a delicious, traditional cheeseburger in Sidney, look no further than this iconic establishment. Originally launched as a chuck wagon over a century ago, this charming diner has transformed into a beloved fixture that exudes old-school charm reminiscent of a scene from Happy Days. You can find The Spot To Eat conveniently located at 201 S Ohio Ave., Sidney, OH 45365.
9. Slyman’s Restaurant – Cleveland
Located in the heart of downtown Cleveland, this popular restaurant is renowned for serving the finest corned beef in Ohio. Interestingly, this cherished breakfast and sandwich spot has been featured on Rachael Ray’s show, “$40 a Day.” To beat the crowds, it’s advisable to drop by for an early lunch around 11 a.m. Slyman’s operates Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., and on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. You can find it at 3106 St Clair Ave. NE, Cleveland, OH 44114.
10. Primavista – Cincinnati
Enjoy the stunning skyline of downtown Cincinnati while dining at Primavista, an Italian restaurant that promises a delightful experience with its delicious cuisine and breathtaking views. The atmosphere is relaxed, making it perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a meal without the need for formal attire. Walk-ins are always welcome, so you can easily stop by whenever you’re in the area. You can find Primavista at 810 Matson Place, Cincinnati, OH 45204.
11. Heggy’s Nut Shop – Canton
This unpretentious eatery offers some of the most beloved dishes in the Canton area, including hotdogs, sandwiches, and burgers. If you visit, don’t miss out on their delicious butter fries as a side! Heggy’s Nut Shop can be found at 3200 Tuscarawas St. W, Canton, OH 44708.
12. Casa Nueva Restaurant & Cantina – Athens
This popular dining spot in Athens serves delicious Mexican cuisine for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. During weekends, the restaurant tends to get busy, so be prepared for possible wait times. If you’re not in the mood to wait, consider snagging a seat in the bodega area. Casa Nueva can be found at 6 W State St., Athens, OH 45701.
13. Kewpee Hamburgers – Lima
Kewpee Hamburgers is a beloved fast food establishment in Lima, boasting three locations that offer some of the finest burgers in the city, along with delicious french fries and creamy malts.
14. The Scioto Ribber – Portsmouth
At The Scioto Ribber, a beloved steakhouse in the area, patrons can enjoy the unique experience of watching their steaks grill over one of the five wood-fired grills situated in the backyard. Just to give you an idea of portion sizes, a “small” steak weighs in at 16 ounces, while the “large” option is a hefty 32 ounces. You can find The Scioto Ribber at 1024 Gallia St., Portsmouth, OH 45662.
15. Strip Steakhouse – Avon
The Ewers Barn houses Strip Steakhouse, offering diners a remarkable culinary experience alongside a glimpse into the barn’s rich architectural heritage, which dates back to 1851. You can find Strip Steakhouse at 36840 Detroit Rd., Avon, OH 44011.
16. Kengo Sushi & Yakitori – Toledo
If you’re in search of an unparalleled sushi experience and perhaps the most genuine omakase offering in Ohio, look no further than this cozy sushi and yakitori restaurant in downtown Toledo. It’s advisable to arrive early or give them a call ahead of time, as reservations are necessary exclusively for the omakase experience. Kengo Sushi & Yakitori welcomes guests from Tuesday to Saturday, operating from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. You can find them at 38 S Saint Clair St., Toledo, OH 43604.
17. Seven Miles Smokehouse – Chillicothe
Seven Miles Smokehouse, a family-run establishment, delivers outstanding barbecue featuring slow-cooked southern meats and homemade sides prepared fresh each day. Featured in the photo is “The Mad Dog,” a delicious creation that includes pulled smoked chicken, beef brisket, and pulled pork, all garnished with grilled onions, a savory sauce, and their signature creamy cole slaw. Currently, Seven Miles Smokehouse operates as a food truck, so make sure to call (740) 851-4015 for their latest location.
18. Pier W – Lakewood
Pier W, a well-known establishment in the Cleveland area, offers diners a unique experience perched over Lake Erie, creating an ambiance reminiscent of a luxury cruise. This renowned Ohio restaurant specializes in outstanding seafood dishes and is open for lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch, ensuring a delightful culinary adventure for every occasion.
Have you had the chance to dine at any of these eateries? If so, do you think they deserve their spot among the top dining locations in Ohio? We’d love to hear your suggestions for the finest restaurants in Ohio as well. Feel free to share your thoughts, recommendations, and experiences with us, so we can expand our list of the best culinary spots in the state!