This Historic Train Depot Near Cleveland Is Now A Beautiful Restaurant Right On The Tracks

Earlier this week, I got an absolutely life-changing message. There's a restaurant near Cleveland, I learned, that has deep fried waffles. Yes, you read that right. Deep. Fried. Waffles. Of course, that's just one of many features that makes Over Easy at the Depot in Kent so memorable, but it's the particular piece of the story that initially pulled me in. I just had to don my waffle merch and go scope it out! This historic train depot restaurant near Cleveland is truly one for the bucket list, whether you come for the ambiance, the deep fried waffles, or a classic old-fashioned breakfast.

Located in the beautiful and historic Erie Railroad station in Kent is a delectable restaurant you have to try.

This old depot dates back to 1875, though the railroad had been active in Kent since 1863. Before this building was standing, a boxcar was actually used as a makeshift depot. Though the building served its use, it shut down to passengers in 1970 and was nearly demolished. Fortunately, locals rallied to save it, and they can now visit Over Easy at the Depot to experience its beauty.

Inside, historic elements and endless charm create an ambiance that's unbeatable.

This is the kind of restaurant where you can enjoy a feast for the eyes in addition to an excellent meal. As the depot once served the New York–Chicago train line, it's easy to imagine the opulence of this small town stop charming the socks off big city visitors. After the Kent Historical Society initially saved the building in the 1970s, the Pufferbelly Restaurant moved in and operated here from 1981 to 2016. Treno, an Italian joint, followed it, operating briefly from 2017 to 2020. In 2021, Over Easy finally moved in and started making the place feel like a home away from home again.

The restaurant, which is open daily from 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., has all the classics on their menu.

Biscuits and gravy, hash, French toast, waffles... you name it, they probably have it. All your breakfast favorites are waiting to delight your taste buds, so be sure to bring your appetite.

They also have some more imaginative offerings, like those deep fried waffles I mentioned earlier.

Before you commit, you'll have to decide which ice cream flavor you want to pair with your delicious dish. These things are absolutely decadent, and truly, they're a life-changing indulgence.

But the unique offerings don't end at breakfast time. The Off the Rail Burger is a lunch option like no other!

Bison chili, smoked salmon benedict, candy bacon, and elk sausage are all other unique options you might enjoy. An ever-rotating offering of specials further mixes it up, meaning you can return time and time again without eating the same thing twice.

Pancake flights, breakfast charcuterie, and morning tacos are other dishes you should know about, too.

At about a 45 minute drive from home, Kent isn't the closest breakfast option... but boy, do these selections make it worthwhile. There's just so much to choose from!

This is the perfect place for a romantic weekend breakfast, a casual lunch with friends, or a pre-hiking fuel stop.

No matter the occasion, this incredible restaurant simply can't be beat. You'll love taking in the history of the spot while you dine, and the food won't disappoint.

Whatever you do, bring your appetite!

Don't let your eyes deceive you... the food here is filling! If you're concerned that an entree alone won't fill you up, there are plenty of sides to round out your meal.

You're going to love Over Easy at the Depot in Kent.

Look for it at 152 Franklin Ave, Kent, OH, 44240.

This historic train depot restaurant near Cleveland is a worthy addition to your local dining bucket list. While I came for those deep fried waffles, I was absolutely floored by the charm of this spot. There's so much to choose from on the menu, and the history of the site will allow your mind to run wild while you dine.

While you're in town, check out the Portage Hike & Bike Trail. The natural landscape down here is every bit as lovely as you'd expect!