9 Humble Little Restaurants In Ohio That Are So Worth The Visit
By April Dray|Published March 13, 2018
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April Dray
Author
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.
A little humility goes a long way—even when it comes to restaurants.
Here in Ohio, some of the best food in the state is hiding in our small town joints, unsuspecting hole-in-the-walls and neighborhood diners. The following nine restaurants are humble in appearance and size, but the food hiding inside makes them well worth a visit. See how many you’ve been to before:
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.
With breakfast anytime, a down-home atmosphere and fast service, this is the perfect local dive to eat and run when you need a hearty meal for a long day ahead. It is located at 930 Home Ave., Akron, OH 44310.
Located right on the shores of Lake Erie, New Sandusky Fish Company is a humble seafood shack locals can't get enough of. With fresh fish caught daily and cooked with expertise, you will experience what is arguably the best perch sandwich in Ohio here. There's only outdoor seating here — but with a view like that it's all you really need. It's located at 235 E. Shoreline Drive in Sandusky.
If you enjoy nostalgia, a root beer float and a 1950s setting, then there’s a humble eatery hiding in Cincinnati, Ohio you need to know about. The Root Beer Stand is an Ohio classic that specializes in an American classic. With a variety of root beer flavors and other American favorites, this family-owned joint belongs on your foodie bucket list. The Root Beer Stand is located at 11566 Reading Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45241.
Massillon's oldest restaurant is proud to be Massillon's oldest restaurant, (and rightfully so.) With breakfast served all day, hearty burgers and all meals made from scratch, you really can't ask for anything better. The Coffee Cup is located at 426 3rd St. SE, Massillon, OH 44646.
6. Tom's Ice Cream Bowl (Zanesville)
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.
This "hole in the wall" Mexican restaurant is a family owned and operated diamond in the rough. The Tex-Mex here is out of this world, as are their margaritas. Oler's Bar & Grill is located at 708 Lima Ave., Findlay, OH 45840.
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. It's located at 117 E Main St., Troy, OH 45373.
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.
Have you been to any of these restaurants before? What others would you add to this list? Let us know!