Ohio is home to an array of unique dining experiences that go beyond the ordinary. If you’re on the lookout for a memorable meal, this state has plenty to offer—provided you know where to explore. With everything from vibrant neon décor to pancakes inspired by comic book heroes, there’s bound to be an eccentric eatery within a short drive from your location. Here are eight unconventional restaurants in Ohio that might just redefine your perception of dining out. Check off which ones you have visited and make note of the spots that deserve a place on your culinary wishlist:
1. Terry’s Turf Club (Cincinnati)
If you’re in the mood for mouth-watering jumbo burgers, vibrant neon decor, and a fantastic selection of beers, this beloved local spot is a must-visit. Enjoy the delectable food and immerse yourself in the lively ambiance. Now under new ownership, this eatery continues to serve up the same delicious flavors and fun vibe you’ve come to love. Stop by at 4618 Eastern Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45226, and for more information, check out their website.
2. Unusual Junction (West Lafayette)
The Lava Rock Grill Diner located at Unusual Junction is a uniquely charming dining spot that promises a one-of-a-kind experience. The decor is filled with an eclectic mix of items, ensuring that diners are constantly surprised by new discoveries on the walls and ceiling. The menu boasts a wide variety of options, ranging from delicious burgers to gourmet pasta dishes, all crafted from scratch. If you’re interested in checking it out, you can find it at 56310 US-36, West Lafayette, OH 43845. For more information, be sure to visit their website.
3. The Maid-Rite Sandwich Shoppe (Greenville)
“Home of the famous Maid-Rite, Cheese-Rite and Big Jim,” this unsuspecting sandwich shop upholds a strange tradition. Visitors stick their chewing gum outside along the “Wall of Gum” and come inside for what is arguably Ohio’s best loose meat sandwich. This unusual eatery is located at 125 N Broadway St., Greenville, OH 45331. To learn more, visit their website here.
4. Mike’s Place (Kent)
Out of all the unique places to eat in Ohio, Mike’s Place is undeniably Ohio’s quirkiest. From palm trees and tiki bars to Star Wars memorabilia and castles, it’s hard to pinpoint the overall theme of this unforgettable restaurant that truly marches to the beat of its own drum. (When it comes to the food, you’ll find a wide variety of hefty American cuisine, appetizers and breakfast served all day.) Mike’s Place is located at 1700 S Water St., Kent, OH 44240. To learn more about one of the best wacky restaurants in Ohio, visit their website here.
5. Sugar n’ Spice (Cincinnati)
You’ll come for the epic breakfast food and leave with a souvenir rubber ducky. Sugar n’ Spice is one of the most colorful and iconic Cincinnati area restaurants. Locals and visitors alike will come back for more. You’ll find it at 4381 Reading Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45229. To learn more, visit their website here.
6. O’Betty’s Red Hot (Athens)
The small town of Athens, Ohio is home to a grommet hot dog shop that’s also a mini museum. O’Betty’s Red Hot is unlike any other restaurant in Ohio. Chili, goat cheese, avocado, bacon, coleslaw—anything goes on a hotdog here. The Wonderful Wacky Hot Dog Museum features hundreds of hot dog related items, many of which you’ve likely never seen before. You’ll find everything from a hot dog shaped phone to a hot dog shaped harmonica. O’Betty’s Red Hot is located at 15 West State St., Athens, OH 45701. To learn more, visit their website here.
7. Tackle Box 2 (Fremont)
Full of vibrant decorations, this waterfront eatery is one of the most unusual restaurants in Ohio. Get here early! This place often gets crowded on weekends, and it’s easy to see why. People can’t get enough of their fresh seafood dishes. You’ll find it at 420 Sandusky Ave, Fremont, OH 43420. To learn more, visit their Facebook page here.
8. Melt Bar and Grilled (Various locations)
With an array of specialty sandwiches and several shop locations in Columbus and Cleveland, this sandwich joint has made quite an impression on locals. In addition to mouthwatering sandwiches and eclectic decor, 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.”) To learn more, visit their website here.
Have you been to any of these wacky restaurants in Ohio? What other eateries would you add to this list? Let us know in the comments section below.