The 8 Best Little Food Towns In Ohio You Need To Explore Before They Get Too Popular
Here in Ohio, there is no shortage of delicious restaurants. Some towns have more than others, and those are the places worth highlighting. The next time you’re on the road, make a stop at any of the 8 best food towns in Ohio. No matter where you go, you’ll enjoy an unforgettable meal. See how many you’ve been to before:
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
The small city of Athens, Ohio isn’t just a quaint college town with a beautiful campus. It’s also hiding some of the most delicious restaurants in the state—all in one place. From massive burritos to scrumptious international cuisine, you’ll have a hard time deciding where to eat lunch here. A few of our favorite restaurants that you'll find here include Casa Nueva Restaurant & Cantina, Bagel Street Deli, Restaurant Salaam and OMG! Rotisserie.
With a population of just a little more than 300, the tiny village of Waldo in Marion County is unexpectedly hiding a delicious secret. G & R Tavern is a must-stop when you're in the area. For more than 50 years, it's been the village's best spot to eat. The signs here don't lie; this modest, seat-yourself, no-frills tavern is home to the best bologna sandwich in the world. G & R Tavern is located at 103 N Marion St., Waldo, OH 43356.
If you had to pick the next "Pizza Capital of the World" in Ohio, what town would you choose? We’re thinking Mansfield is solid choice, with several exceptional pizza restaurants you simply have to try. With Two Cousin's Pizza, Leaning Tower of Pizza, Deschner's, and more, the pizza options here are seemingly endless.
The historic riverboat town of Marietta is known as the first permanent settlement of the Northwest Territory. It's also hiding some delicious restaurants you'll want to try. For dinner, we recommend trying Austyn’s Restaurant or Boathouse BBQ.
Tucked away in southwest Ohio you'll find Ohio's most charming and unique town, where the benches are works of art and the buildings are full of character—inside and out. Even the restaurants and cafes have an artistic flare to them. Winds Cafe and Bakery is just one of the many amazing restaurants here that use fresh, local ingredients.
Have you been to any of the best food towns in Ohio? What other cities would you add to this list? Let us know in the comments below! And if you know another exceptional eatery in the Buckeye State, nominate it for a chance to be featured.
Sure, it’s fun to visit the highly rated eateries in Cincinnati and Columbus, but you can’t miss out on the hidden gems! There are so many amazing small town restaurants in Ohio. If it’s comfort food you’re after, take a road trip to Amish Door Restaurant in Wilmot. This welcoming restaurant is known for whipping up mouthwatering fried chicken, creamy mashed potatoes, and magnificent desserts. Bring your whole family and enjoy a tasty meal together! These dishes are best when shared with those you love.
What kind of food is Ohio known for?
You’ll find a wide variety of food in Ohio, from BBQ to Italian. If you go to Cincinnati, you’ll find loads of tasty joints serving their special brand of chili. Cincinnati chili isn’t like anything you’ll find in the south. This dish is slightly sweet and often comes on top of a bowl of spaghetti. We wouldn’t have it any other way!
What are the most famous restaurants in Ohio?
As the oldest restaurant in Ohio, The Golden Lamb is also one of the most famous. This spectacular hotel restaurant is loaded with history. In fact, tons of famous figures have enjoyed meals here! Take a step back in time and relax in its gorgeous atmosphere. This is one place you’ll never want to leave. For something more casual, visit Buckeye Express Diner in Bellville. This place isn’t just famous for its comfort food — they’re also known for their eye-catching decor. Everything here is Ohio State themed!
April is the Ohio staff writer for Only in Your State. She is an Ohio native with a Bachelor of Science in Journalism from E.W. Scripps School of Journalism. With more than 10 years of writing experience and a background in news reporting for Ohio newspapers, she's published pieces in multiple print and online publications. When she's not on deadline or chasing after her toddler, she's hunting for hidden gems in Ohio or getting lost in a good book.
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