These 9 Small Town Ohio Restaurants Will Serve You The Best Meal Of Your Life
It’s no secret; small town restaurants in Ohio are the best places to eat.
Fortunately, Ohio is full of all sorts of local, family-owned restaurants that quietly serve up some of the most amazing food you’ll ever taste. The next time you find yourself passing through these small towns, be sure to check out these restaurants.
From hearty pulled pork sandwiches to mouthwatering brisket, Uncle Beth’s BBQ in North Lewisburg has it all—not to mention homemade desserts that are to die for. It’s a somewhat unassuming restaurant that’s the perfect example of a hidden gem. You have to travel off the beaten path somewhat, but the journey is totally worth it. You'll find Uncle Beth's BBQ at 6262 OH 245, North Lewisburg, OH 43060. For more information, visit the official Facebook page for Uncle Beth’s BBQ in North Lewisburg.
This beloved local favorite features a variety of American, Italian, Mexican and seafood cuisine at affordable prices. The atmosphere is cozy, and the house setting will make you feel right at home. Arch & Eddies is located at 181 E Main St., Jackson, OH 45640. Visit Arch & Eddie's Facebook page to learn more.
At G & R Tavern in Waldo, you'll find what is arguably the best fried bologna sandwich in Ohio (and quite possibly the world.) It is located at 103 N Marion St., Waldo, OH 43356. To learn more, visit the official Facebook page for G & R Tavern in Waldo.
A unique and delicious pizza eating experience awaits you at this one of a kind pizza joint. Covered Bridge Pizza Parlor is located at 6541 South Main St. North Kingsville, OH 44068. Check out the Covered Bridge Pizza Parlor Facebook page to learn more.
Don't make the mistake of skipping out on dessert or a fountain soda at this old-fashioned, beloved diner. Nancy's Main Street Diner is located at 426 Main St., Grafton, OH 44044. To learn more, check out the Nancy’s Main Street Diner website.
Since 1922, this family-owned establishment's been serving up exceptional food at reasonable prices in the small town of Blakeslee. When you stop at Sam's Place, you've got to try one of their signature steaks. You'll find this local favorite at 230 Washington St. Blakeslee, OH 43505. For more information, visit the website for Sam's Place in Blakslee.
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. Check out The Spot To Eat's website to learn more.
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, Walnut Creek, OH 44681. For more information, visit the website for Rebecca’s Bistro in Walnut Creek.
Tucked away in western Ohio you'll find this nostalgic gem, serving up delicious grub with a friendly staff since 1935. You simply can't go to K's Hamburger Shop without ordering one of the restaurant's famous, yet humble burgers, complete with your choice of toppings. The nostalgic vibe here will remind you of simpler times, when you sat at the counter and knew the staff by name. It's located at 117 E Main St., Troy, OH 45373. Visit the website for K’s Hamburger Shop to learn more.
Have you been to any of these small town restaurants in Ohio? Which one is your favorite? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!
Address: 6262 OH-245, North Lewisburg, OH 43060, USA
Address: 181 Main St, Jackson, OH 45640, USA
Address: G & R Tavern, 103 N Marion St, Waldo, OH 43356, USA
Address: Covered Bridge Pizza Parlor, 6541 N Main St, North Kingsville, OH 44068, USA
Address: 426 Main St, Grafton, OH 44044, USA
Address: 230 Washington St, Blakeslee, OH 43505, USA
Address: 201 S Ohio Ave, Sidney, OH 45365, USA
Address: 4986 Walnut St, Walnut Creek, OH 44687, USA
Address: 117 E Main St, Troy, OH 45373, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
small town restaurants in Ohio
October 12, 2020
Elisa Regulski
What are the best food towns in Ohio?
There are so many wonderful food towns in Ohio, and Athens is always highly praised. You can find almost any time of food here — from Mediterranean to Mexican. Bring your appetite and scour the charming streets for some scrumptious eats. Every foodie should explore this town at least once! If you loved eating your way through Athens, you’ll also want to meander through Waldo. Here, you’ll find the famous G and R Tavern. Really, these sandwiches are truly amazing. After your first bite, you’ll understand why they’ve become such an iconic Ohio dish! Of course, these are just a few of the amazing places to eat in the Buckeye State. If you need more ideas, check out our list of the best food towns in Ohio.
What are the most famous restaurants in Ohio?
If you’ve never been to The Golden Lamb — add it to your bucket list! 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!
What are the best hidden gem restaurants in Ohio?
If you love exploring underrated eateries, you’re in luck! We compiled a list of the best hidden gem restaurants in Ohio, and you’ll love each and every place. Scarf down a delicious breakfast at Westerville Grill, devour amazing sandwiches at Kravitz Delicatessen, and scarf down an incredible hamburger at Big Bopper’s.
Address: 6262 OH-245, North Lewisburg, OH 43060, USA
Address: 181 Main St, Jackson, OH 45640, USA
Address: G & R Tavern, 103 N Marion St, Waldo, OH 43356, USA
Address: Covered Bridge Pizza Parlor, 6541 N Main St, North Kingsville, OH 44068, USA
Address: 426 Main St, Grafton, OH 44044, USA
Address: 230 Washington St, Blakeslee, OH 43505, USA
Address: 201 S Ohio Ave, Sidney, OH 45365, USA
Address: 4986 Walnut St, Walnut Creek, OH 44687, USA
Address: 117 E Main St, Troy, OH 45373, USA
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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.