2024 was quite the year for food in the Toledo area.
And this week we recap the best of the best that made our mouths water and our plates clean.
Whether that was old favorites like El Tipico and Byblos, or newcomers like Top Pot and Regalo, a lot of places caught our eye in 2024 and will certainly keep us coming back for more, in this year or the next.
Our favorite cuisine types varied quite a bit, too, from Italian and Asian to Mexican and American.
All eateries were reviewed based on two visits by our staff who consider a multifaceted array of things before giving their rating. In addition to the quality of the food, critics are attuned to proximity of parking, noise level, handicap accessibility, and temperament of the staff. The Blade paid for all meals.
4.5 stars
• Shorty’s True American Roadhouse, 5111 Monroe St., Toledo. Find all around BBQ quality at this West Toledo staple. The ribs, the pulled pork, and the hamburgers are among the highlights. $$-$$$$.
• Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant, 4705 Talmadge Rd., Toledo. Upper scale chain restaurant is pricey but deftly combines world and American cuisine. Try the pretzel crusted pork chops or the chocolate cake. $$$-$$$$.