8 Wackadoodle Restaurants In Ohio That Will Change How You Think Of Eating Out
Ohio practically specializes in quirky restaurants. Eating a meal out can be fun—if you know where to go, that is. From neon lighting to superhero-themed pancakes, there’s likely an unusual restaurant within an hour’s drive time of you. The following are 8 wacky restaurants in Ohio that will change how you think of eating out. See how many you’ve been to before and which ones you need to add to your dining bucket list:
With jumbo burgers, a neon-lit room and exceptional beers, this local dive is a classic you don't want to miss out on. Come for the food; stay for the quirky atmosphere. Even with new owners, this restaurant is still as delicious and fun as ever. You'll find it at 4618 Eastern Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45226. To learn more, visit their website here.
The Lava Rock Grill Diner at Unusual Junction is one of the quirkiest places you'll ever eat. You never know just what you'll spot on the walls or the ceiling here. On the menu, you'll find everything from mouthwatering burgers to upscale pasta dishes. The best part? Everything here is made from scratch. You'll find it at 56310 US-36, West Lafayette, OH 43845. To learn more, visit their website here.
"Home of the famous Maid-Rite, Cheese-Rite and Big Jim," this unsuspecting sandwich shop upholds a strange tradition. Visitors stick their chewing gum outside along the "Wall of Gum" and come inside for what is arguably Ohio's best loose meat sandwich. This unusual eatery is located at 125 N Broadway St., Greenville, OH 45331. To learn more, visit their website here.
Out of all the unique places to eat in Ohio, Mike’s Place is undeniably Ohio’s quirkiest. From palm trees and tiki bars to Star Wars memorabilia and castles, it’s hard to pinpoint the overall theme of this unforgettable restaurant that truly marches to the beat of its own drum. (When it comes to the food, you'll find a wide variety of hefty American cuisine, appetizers and breakfast served all day.) Mike's Place is located at 1700 S Water St., Kent, OH 44240. To learn more about one of the best wacky restaurants in Ohio, visit their website here.
You'll come for the epic breakfast food and leave with a souvenir rubber ducky. Sugar n' Spice is one of the most colorful and iconic Cincinnati area restaurants. Locals and visitors alike will come back for more. You'll find it at 4381 Reading Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45229. To learn more, visit their website here.
The small town of Athens, Ohio is home to a grommet hot dog shop that’s also a mini museum. O’Betty’s Red Hot is unlike any other restaurant in Ohio. Chili, goat cheese, avocado, bacon, coleslaw—anything goes on a hotdog here. The Wonderful Wacky Hot Dog Museum features hundreds of hot dog related items, many of which you've likely never seen before. You'll find everything from a hot dog shaped phone to a hot dog shaped harmonica. O’Betty’s Red Hot is located at 15 West State St., Athens, OH 45701. To learn more, visit their website here.
Full of vibrant decorations, this waterfront eatery is one of the most unusual restaurants in Ohio. Get here early! This place often gets crowded on weekends, and it's easy to see why. People can't get enough of their fresh seafood dishes. You'll find it at 420 Sandusky Ave, Fremont, OH 43420. To learn more, visit their Facebook page here.
With an array of specialty sandwiches and several shop locations in Columbus and Cleveland, this sandwich joint has made quite an impression on locals. In addition to mouthwatering sandwiches and eclectic decor, this shop is known for its "Melt Challenge," which features more than 5 lbs. of food; composed of 13 different cheeses, three slices of grilled bread and a pile of hand-cut fries and slaw. (Pictured: "The Big Popper.") To learn more, visit their website here.
Have you been to any of these wacky restaurants in Ohio? What other eateries would you add to this list? Let us know in the comments section below.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
Address: 4618 Eastern Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45226, USA
Address: 56310, West Lafayette, OH 43845, USA
Address: 125 N Broadway St, Greenville, OH 45331, USA
Address: 1700 S Water St, Kent, OH 44240, USA
Address: 4381 Reading Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
Address: 15 W State St, Athens, OH 45701, USA
Address: 420 Sandusky Ave, Fremont, OH 43420, USA
Address: 14718 Detroit Ave, Lakewood, OH 44107, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
wacky restaurants in Ohio
February 10, 2020
Elisa Regulski
What are the best themed restaurants in Ohio?
There are so many fun themed restaurants in Ohio. For a down-home dining adventure, visit The Barn Restaurant in Smithville. This lovely eatery sits inside (you guessed it) a rustic old barn. It’s full of fun board games and has a family-friendly atmosphere. Gather your loved ones and enjoy a fantastic meal together. The menu has something for everyone. The School House Restaurant, located in Camp Dennison, is another exciting themed restaurant in Ohio. Here, you can chow down on fried chicken while sitting inside a refurbished 1860s schoolhouse! There’s no other place like it.
Are there any restaurants in Ohio that serve giant food?
If you’re really hungry, head over to Big Mama’s Burritos. This delicious local eatery serves burritos that are bigger than your face. Their largest meal weighs 5 pounds! This is for serious appetites only. You’ll also find massive pretzels at Father John’s Microbrewery. These treats are so big, they hardly fit on a plate! Pair it with a refreshing pint of beer and enjoy the tasty combination. Believe us, there’s no shortage of quirky food in Ohio.
What are the best special occasion restaurants in Ohio?
If you really want to celebrate, visit Pier W in Lakewood. This stunning restaurant sits above Lake Erie and offers spectacular aerial views. Plus, their food is fantastic. They serve everything from steak to lobster, and their Sunday brunch can’t be beat. What’s not to love? For another gorgeous dining destination, visit Jekyll's Kitchen in Chagrin Falls. This restaurant doesn’t just serve mouthwatering food. They also boast a breathtaking view of the nearby cascading waters. Whether you’re coming for a birthday or anniversary, you’re certain to have a wonderfully memorable experience.
Ohio In Your Inbox
Thank you! You will receive your first email soon.
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.
