Posted in Ohio
January 25, 2018
These 9 Secret Restaurants In Ohio Are Well Worth Finding
Here in Ohio, sometimes, the best food takes a little bit of searching.
Although the following 9 Ohio restaurants aren’t technically “secret,” they’re pretty remote when it comes to their settings. From state park lodge restaurants in the middle of a forest to little-known restaurants tucked away in convenience stores, here are 9 secret restaurants in Ohio that are well worth finding. Let us know which ones you knew about and which ones were a surprise!
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/
Vinton County is home to one of Ohio's most underrated parks, Lake Hope State Park, as well as an incredible dining lodge. With two stories, plenty of seating, and floor-to-ceiling windows, there isn't a bad seat in the house. You'll feel at home here, but you'll also be impressed by the atmosphere. You'll find it at 27331 State Rt 278, McArthur, OH 45651.
This unassuming local convenience store makes a pizza to die for. (Trust us.) The subs are also exceptional here. Make the drive and give it a try. Fredneck's Mini Mart is located at 144 State Route 772, Bainbridge, OH 45612.
Located in the village of Walnut Creek, coming here almost feels like you're visiting a friendly neighbor for the afternoon, rather than eating at a restaurant. Housed in a restored log cabin that was built in the early to mid-1800s, you'll feel right at home at Rebecca's Bistro. (And you really can't go wrong with anything you order at Rebecca's, as everything is prepared with the freshest ingredients and local produce.) You'll find it at 4986 Walnut St, Sugarcreek, OH 44681.
What appears to be a country home off a dirt road in Clarksville, Ohio is actually a delicious restaurant with incredible views. Spillway Lodge is an old farmhouse sitting on 128 acres of beautiful, countryside land.You'll find it at 623 Old State Rd., Clarksville, OH 45113. (Please note: GPS and cell phone service may be limited.)
This gorgeous restaurant is actually named after Pulitzer-prize winning author and naturalist Louis Bromfield. With floor to ceiling windows, Bromfield’s Dining Room features stunning views of the surrounding forest and Pleasant Hill Lake. In the fall, it makes for a particularly colorful sight to see. On the menu, you'll find daily specials, seafood, Italian dishes, salads, soups, sandwiches, and more. It's located at 1098 County Road 3006, Perrysville, OH 44864.
April Dray/Only In Your State
April Dray/Only In Your State
If you’re looking for a unique place to dine on an evening out or a lazy Sunday morning brunch, there’s a little-known restaurant hiding in central Ohio you should know about. Located between the runways of John Glenn International Airport, you’ll find 94th Aero Squadron Restaurant. It’s an aviation-themed restaurant that features delicious food, World War I & II memorabilia and great views of planes taking flight and landing. It's located at 5030 Sawyer Rd., Columbus, OH 43219.
Nestled in a small forest at the scenic Oak Shade Grove in Oregon, Ohio, you’ll find the Black Forest Cafe. It’s a gorgeous German restaurant that’s less than 10 miles from Toledo — but when you visit you’ll feel like you’ve stumbled upon Snow White and the Seven Dwarves’ cottage. It's located at 3624 Seaman Rd., Oregon, OH 43616.
Nobody does it better than mom, right? Connected to a gas station, this unsuspecting restaurant is a hidden gem that serves up exceptional, home-cooked breakfast and lunch food. (We recommend ordering the biscuits and gravy.) Mom's Restaurant is located at 1111 William C Good Blvd., Franklin, OH 45005.
Nestled in the hills of Pleasant Valley in Lucas, Ohio is a picture perfect farm with an unbelievably nice restaurant. The food is superb and the setting is simply unforgettable. The Malabar Farm Restaurant is housed in a restored 1820s stagecoach inn. In spite of its upscale French and home-cooked cuisine, the restaurant has a cozy atmosphere that makes you feel right at home. You'll find it at 3645 Pleasant Valley Road, Lucas, OH 44843.
Ho many of these restaurants did you know about? What other “secret” restaurants would you add to this list? Share your thoughts and experiences with us!
For more delicious restaurants in Ohio, check out our previous article: 11 Unsuspecting Restaurants In Ohio With Food So Good It Should Be Illegal.
