11 Nostalgic Restaurants In Ohio Where Dining Is A Blast From The Past
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April Dray
Author
There’s nothing like a hometown dive or a 50s themed diner to remind you of simpler times.
Here in Ohio, there are several restaurants with a nostalgic vibe that incite fond memories of yesteryear. From old-fashioned curb service drive-ins to vintage diners with counter seating, the following are 11 nostalgic restaurants in Ohio where dining is a blast from the past.
Both literally and figuratively, this is the spot to go to for a tasty, classic cheeseburger in Sidney. What started out as a chuck wagon more than 100 years ago is now a stationary old fashioned eatery that will make you feel like you've temporarily stepped foot into a Happy Day's episode. The Spot To Eat is located at 201 S Ohio Ave., Sidney, OH 45365.
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Known for their coneys and pea salad, this Main Street restaurant is a gem. It's a 50s themed diner with so much more than just coneys on the menu. You might have to wait for a seat, as it's a popular joint to grab a bite, but it's worth it. You'll find it at 98 N Main St., Mansfield, OH 44902.
April Dray/Only In Your State
April Dray/Only In Your State
Since 1950, Tom's Ice Cream Bowl has served up the area's best homemade ice cream. Its homey, 1950s style makes it a nostalgic stop for many. (You can't go wrong with any flavor here but if you like nuts on your sundae, definitely get them. Their nuts are roasted fresh daily and all of their toppings are processed in-house.) Tom’s Ice Cream Bowl is located at 532 McIntire Ave., Zanesville, OH 43701.
Tucked away in central Ohio you'll find this nostalgic gem, serving up delicious grub with a friendly staff since 1951. You simply can't go to Carl's without ordering one of the restaurant's famous, yet humble cheeseburger baskets, complete with your choice of toppings. Carl’s Townhouse is located at 95 W 2nd St., Chillicothe, OH 45601.
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In addition to their unbelievably delicious homemade pies, this third-generation family diner has been serving up what is arguably the Toledo area's best breakfast since 1948. Pictured are fresh blueberry pancakes with a side of bacon. Schmucker's is located at 2103 N. Reynolds Rd., Toledo, OH 43615.
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Tucked away in the small city of Pataskala, there's a nostalgic diner that's fun for the whole family. On the menu, you'll find some exceptional breakfast, lunch and dinner options. The restaurant also features Amish chocolates, pies, nuts and specialty candies. You'll find it at 63 E Broad St., Pataskala, OH 43062.
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This signature fast food joint in Lima has three locations that serve up the city's best burgers, french fires and malts. Since 1923, families have enjoyed stopping in for a Kewpee burger and chocolate malt. Pro tip: There's usually always a wait at the drive-thru during lunch or dinner time, so we recommend going inside if you're pressed for time.
For your first visit to Jolly's, we recommend the footlong with fries and a frosty root beer. This seasonal eatery closes at the end of October, so don't wait too long to visit. Jolly’s Drive-In has two locations: 165 N. Brookwood Ave., Hamilton, Ohio 45013 and 210 N. Erie Hwy, Hamilton, Ohio 45011.
Where you only order via your booth's telephone or old-fashioned curb service style, this burger joint is a favorite among locals. (Important side note: The specialty burger sauce is where it's at.) Be sure to get a malt with your meal. You'll find it at 1487 N. Bridge St., Chillicothe, OH 45601.
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Every spring and summer season, there's a Cincinnati, Ohio classic that thrives with long lines, delicious footlongs and famous root beer. Closed from the end of September and all through winter, this seasonal eatery is a must-try in the warmer months. With limited indoor seating, this place has all the charm and nostalgia you'd imagine a classic root beer stand would have. You'll find it at 11566 Reading Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45241.
K's Hamburger Shop features breakfast all day long, homemade soups and salads, carryout service and so much more. The nostalgic vibe of K's Hamburger Shop will remind you of simpler times, when you sat at the counter and knew the staff by name. K’s Hamburger Shop is located at 117 E Main St., Troy, OH 45373.
Have you ever been to any of these nostalgic restaurants before? If so, we want to know what your experience was like!
For more nostalgic fun in Ohio, check out our previous article: 13 Perfect Places To Go In Ohio If You’re Feeling Nostalgic.
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