Here in Ohio, dining out can be quite the adventure. (Be sure to check out these unique dinner adventures.) From converted jail houses to super hero-themed restaurants, the following are 13 of the coolest and most unusual restaurants in Ohio. Let us know which ones you’ve been to before, which ones you’re adding to dining bucket list and which ones we left out!
- The Olde Jaol Steakhouse and Tavern (Wooster)
Olde Jaol Steakhouse and Tavern/Facebook
Olde Jaol Steakhouse and Tavern/Facebook What was once the Wayne County Jail is now a special restaurant that both locals and visitors alike can’t get enough of. The Olde Jaol Steakhouse and Tavern in Wooster, Ohio is a true historic gem that’s perfect for a special evening out. Between the unique atmosphere and the delicious cuisine, you’re sure to remember your visit here. (You can even dine in the former cell rooms, if you wish.) You’ll find it at 215 N. Walnut St., Wooster, OH 44691. To learn more, visit their website here.
- Mike’s Place (Kent)
mikesplacerestaurant.com
Mike’s Place/Facebook 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, visit their website here.
- 94th Aero Squadron Restaurant (Columbus)
April Dray/Only In Your State
April Dray/Only In Your State Located near 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. This is a hidden gem plane enthusiasts and history buffs alike will especially appreciate. You’ll find it at 5030 Sawyer Rd., Columbus, OH 43219. To learn more, visit their website here.
- Terry’s Turf Club (Cincinnati)
Terry’s Turf Club/Facebook
Mickeymotto/TripAdvisor 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. You’ll find it at 4618 Eastern Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45226. To learn more, visit their website here.
- The Whitehouse Inn (Whitehouse)
Whitehouse Inn/Facebook
Management Photo/Trip Advisor When you’re feeling extra patriotic and proud to be an American, there’s one Toledo area restaurant you should check out. The Whitehouse Inn in Whitehouse, Ohio is a delicious, family-owned restaurant with a patriotic flare. Inside, you’ll find elegant decor that pays homage to our country’s presidential history and a large collection of presidential portraits. You’ll find it at 10835 Waterville S., Whitehouse, OH 43571. To learn more, visit their website here.
- The Maid-Rite Sandwich Shoppe (Greenville)
The Maid-Rite Sandwich Shoppe/Facebook
The Maid-Rite Sandwich Shoppe/Facebook “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.
- Tackle Box 2 (Fremont)
Lisa H/Trip Advisor
Walter B/Trip Advisor Tucked away along the Sandusky River, you’ll find this quirky restaurant that’s known for its excellent perch and walleye. With the freshest fish around and a whimsical atmosphere, it’s a popular restaurant for locals and visitors alike. The wait time can be a little long, but it’s worth it. Tackle Box 2 is located at 420 Sandusky Ave., Fremont, OH 43420. To learn more, visit their Facebook page here.
- Black Forest Cafe (Oregon)
Orcinusmoon/Trip Advisor
Black Forest Cafe (at Oak Shade Grove)/Facebook 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. From the setting to the decor, this restaurant looks straight out of a story book. You’ll find it at 3624 Seaman Rd., Oregon, OH 43616. To learn more, visit their website here.
- Tilton Hilton (Lakeview)
Tilton Hilton/Facebook
Tilton Hilton/Facebook Where the burgers are bigger than your head and the floors are tilted, this local favorite is a fun, quirky stop after a day on Indian Lake. You can even dock your boat right alongside the restaurant. Tilton Hilton is located at 10861 Country Rd, 293, Lakeview, OH 43331. To learn more, visit their Facebook page here.
- Tony Packo’s (Toledo)
Tony Packo’s/Facebook
Tony Packo’s/Facebook For a truly epic chili dog, check out this iconic hotdog joint, with multiple locations in Toledo. A strange tradition of displaying autographed hotdog buns began here in 1972 when Jamie Farr of MAS*H signed a bun. While that bun is no longer in existence, today the cafe proudly showcases Styrofoam bun look-alikes signed by various celebrities, including five U.S. presidents. The original Tony Packo’s is located at 1902 Front St., Toledo, OH 43605. To learn more, visit their website here.
- Sugar n’ Spice (Cincinnati)
Sugar n’ Spice | breakfast n’ lunch/Facebook
Sugar n’ Spice | breakfast n’ lunch/Facebook 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.
- Melt Bar and Grilled (Various locations)
Jim Reynolds/Flickr
meltbarandgrilled.com 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.
- The Root Beer Stand (Cincinnati)
The Root Beer Stand/Facebook
The Root Beer Stand/Facebook Every spring and summer season, there’s a Cincinnati, Ohio classic that thrives with long lines, delicious footlongs and famous root beer. With limited indoor seating, this place has all the charm and nostalgia you’d imagine a classic root beer stand would have. This family-owned joint features a variety of root beer flavors and other American favorites. You’ll find it at 11566 Reading Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45241. To learn more, visit their website here.
Olde Jaol Steakhouse and Tavern/Facebook
What was once the Wayne County Jail is now a special restaurant that both locals and visitors alike can’t get enough of. The Olde Jaol Steakhouse and Tavern in Wooster, Ohio is a true historic gem that’s perfect for a special evening out. Between the unique atmosphere and the delicious cuisine, you’re sure to remember your visit here. (You can even dine in the former cell rooms, if you wish.) You’ll find it at 215 N. Walnut St., Wooster, OH 44691. To learn more, visit their website here.
mikesplacerestaurant.com
Mike’s Place/Facebook
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, visit their website here.
April Dray/Only In Your State
Located near 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. This is a hidden gem plane enthusiasts and history buffs alike will especially appreciate. You’ll find it at 5030 Sawyer Rd., Columbus, OH 43219. To learn more, visit their website here.
Terry’s Turf Club/Facebook
Mickeymotto/TripAdvisor
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. You’ll find it at 4618 Eastern Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45226. To learn more, visit their website here.
Whitehouse Inn/Facebook
Management Photo/Trip Advisor
When you’re feeling extra patriotic and proud to be an American, there’s one Toledo area restaurant you should check out. The Whitehouse Inn in Whitehouse, Ohio is a delicious, family-owned restaurant with a patriotic flare. Inside, you’ll find elegant decor that pays homage to our country’s presidential history and a large collection of presidential portraits. You’ll find it at 10835 Waterville S., Whitehouse, OH 43571. To learn more, visit their website here.
The Maid-Rite Sandwich Shoppe/Facebook
“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.
Lisa H/Trip Advisor
Walter B/Trip Advisor
Tucked away along the Sandusky River, you’ll find this quirky restaurant that’s known for its excellent perch and walleye. With the freshest fish around and a whimsical atmosphere, it’s a popular restaurant for locals and visitors alike. The wait time can be a little long, but it’s worth it. Tackle Box 2 is located at 420 Sandusky Ave., Fremont, OH 43420. To learn more, visit their Facebook page here.
Orcinusmoon/Trip Advisor
Black Forest Cafe (at Oak Shade Grove)/Facebook
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. From the setting to the decor, this restaurant looks straight out of a story book. You’ll find it at 3624 Seaman Rd., Oregon, OH 43616. To learn more, visit their website here.
Tilton Hilton/Facebook
Where the burgers are bigger than your head and the floors are tilted, this local favorite is a fun, quirky stop after a day on Indian Lake. You can even dock your boat right alongside the restaurant. Tilton Hilton is located at 10861 Country Rd, 293, Lakeview, OH 43331. To learn more, visit their Facebook page here.
Tony Packo’s/Facebook
For a truly epic chili dog, check out this iconic hotdog joint, with multiple locations in Toledo. A strange tradition of displaying autographed hotdog buns began here in 1972 when Jamie Farr of MAS*H signed a bun. While that bun is no longer in existence, today the cafe proudly showcases Styrofoam bun look-alikes signed by various celebrities, including five U.S. presidents. The original Tony Packo’s is located at 1902 Front St., Toledo, OH 43605. To learn more, visit their website here.
Sugar n’ Spice | breakfast n’ lunch/Facebook
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.
Jim Reynolds/Flickr
meltbarandgrilled.com
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.
The Root Beer Stand/Facebook
Every spring and summer season, there’s a Cincinnati, Ohio classic that thrives with long lines, delicious footlongs and famous root beer. With limited indoor seating, this place has all the charm and nostalgia you’d imagine a classic root beer stand would have. This family-owned joint features a variety of root beer flavors and other American favorites. You’ll find it at 11566 Reading Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45241. To learn more, visit their website here.
Have you been to any of these restaurants quirky restaurants in Ohio? If so, we want to know what your experience was like!
For more fun and unusual restaurants in Ohio, check out our previous article: 9 One-Of-A-Kind Dinner Adventures You Can Only Have In Ohio.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
Address: 215 N Walnut St, Wooster, OH 44691, USAAddress: Mike’s Place, 1700 S Water St #4447, Kent, OH 44240, USAAddress: 5030 Sawyer Rd, Columbus, OH 43219, USAAddress: 4618 Eastern Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45226, USAAddress: 10853 Waterville St, Whitehouse, OH 43571, USAAddress: 125 N Broadway St, Greenville, OH 45331, USAAddress: 420 Sandusky Ave, Fremont, OH 43420, USAAddress: 3624 Seaman Rd, Oregon, OH 43616, USAAddress: 10861 Township Rd 293, Lakeview, OH 43331, USAAddress: Tony Packo’s Restaurant, 1902 Front St, Toledo, OH 43605, USAAddress: 4381 Reading Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USAAddress: Melt Bar and Grilled, 840 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215, USAAddress: 11566 Reading Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45241, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
unusual restaurants in Ohio February 10, 2020 Elisa Regulski What are the most fun restaurants in Ohio? For a super fun dining experience, hop aboard the The Cincinnati Dinner Train. Here, you can sit in a restored 1950s train car and watch the gorgeous scenery roll by. This three-hour train ride includes a four-course meal that’s packed with scrumptious eats. You’ll definitely want to add this to your Ohio dining bucket list. If you loved this adventure, you should also plan a trip with BB Riverboats in Newport, Kentucky. Yes, you’ll have to cross state lines for this one, but it’s totally worth it. The family dinner cruise is both beautiful and delicious. You’ll make memories you’ll cherish forever. What are the most famous restaurants in Ohio? Schmidt’s Sausage Haus and Restaurant, located in Columbus, is one of the most classic restaurants in Ohio. It’s easy to see why it’s been around for so long. They serve authentic and casual German food in a fun and lively setting. You’ll adore their flavorful schnitzel and bratwursts. Pair it with a pint of beer, and you’ll be in business! The Spot To Eat, located in Sidney, is another must-visit Ohio establishment. This no-frills diner serves wonderful cheeseburgers and fries. Eating here is like stepping back in time! You definitely don’t want to pass this place by. Are there any more unusual restaurants in Ohio? If you’re looking for more fun restaurants in Ohio, you’re in luck! The Buckeye Express Diner, located in Bellville, is one of the best. Located inside an old train car, this nostalgic eatery bursts with charm. Everywhere you look, you’ll see Buckeye memorabilia and happy faces. If you’re craving some stick-to-your-ribs comfort food, this is the place to go. Crabill’s Hamburger Shop, located in Urbana, is also an unusual place to dine. This tiny eatery only has 8 seats and it sells tiny burgers. Cozy up at the counter and stuff your face full of scrumptious food. You’ll be so glad you did.
The OIYS Visitor Center
unusual restaurants in Ohio
February 10, 2020
Elisa Regulski
What are the most fun restaurants in Ohio? For a super fun dining experience, hop aboard the The Cincinnati Dinner Train. Here, you can sit in a restored 1950s train car and watch the gorgeous scenery roll by. This three-hour train ride includes a four-course meal that’s packed with scrumptious eats. You’ll definitely want to add this to your Ohio dining bucket list. If you loved this adventure, you should also plan a trip with BB Riverboats in Newport, Kentucky. Yes, you’ll have to cross state lines for this one, but it’s totally worth it. The family dinner cruise is both beautiful and delicious. You’ll make memories you’ll cherish forever. What are the most famous restaurants in Ohio? Schmidt’s Sausage Haus and Restaurant, located in Columbus, is one of the most classic restaurants in Ohio. It’s easy to see why it’s been around for so long. They serve authentic and casual German food in a fun and lively setting. You’ll adore their flavorful schnitzel and bratwursts. Pair it with a pint of beer, and you’ll be in business! The Spot To Eat, located in Sidney, is another must-visit Ohio establishment. This no-frills diner serves wonderful cheeseburgers and fries. Eating here is like stepping back in time! You definitely don’t want to pass this place by. Are there any more unusual restaurants in Ohio? If you’re looking for more fun restaurants in Ohio, you’re in luck! The Buckeye Express Diner, located in Bellville, is one of the best. Located inside an old train car, this nostalgic eatery bursts with charm. Everywhere you look, you’ll see Buckeye memorabilia and happy faces. If you’re craving some stick-to-your-ribs comfort food, this is the place to go. Crabill’s Hamburger Shop, located in Urbana, is also an unusual place to dine. This tiny eatery only has 8 seats and it sells tiny burgers. Cozy up at the counter and stuff your face full of scrumptious food. You’ll be so glad you did.
The OIYS Visitor Center
The OIYS Visitor Center
For a super fun dining experience, hop aboard the The Cincinnati Dinner Train. Here, you can sit in a restored 1950s train car and watch the gorgeous scenery roll by. This three-hour train ride includes a four-course meal that’s packed with scrumptious eats. You’ll definitely want to add this to your Ohio dining bucket list. If you loved this adventure, you should also plan a trip with BB Riverboats in Newport, Kentucky. Yes, you’ll have to cross state lines for this one, but it’s totally worth it. The family dinner cruise is both beautiful and delicious. You’ll make memories you’ll cherish forever.
What are the most famous restaurants in Ohio?
Schmidt’s Sausage Haus and Restaurant, located in Columbus, is one of the most classic restaurants in Ohio. It’s easy to see why it’s been around for so long. They serve authentic and casual German food in a fun and lively setting. You’ll adore their flavorful schnitzel and bratwursts. Pair it with a pint of beer, and you’ll be in business! The Spot To Eat, located in Sidney, is another must-visit Ohio establishment. This no-frills diner serves wonderful cheeseburgers and fries. Eating here is like stepping back in time! You definitely don’t want to pass this place by.
Are there any more unusual restaurants in Ohio?
If you’re looking for more fun restaurants in Ohio, you’re in luck! The Buckeye Express Diner, located in Bellville, is one of the best. Located inside an old train car, this nostalgic eatery bursts with charm. Everywhere you look, you’ll see Buckeye memorabilia and happy faces. If you’re craving some stick-to-your-ribs comfort food, this is the place to go. Crabill’s Hamburger Shop, located in Urbana, is also an unusual place to dine. This tiny eatery only has 8 seats and it sells tiny burgers. Cozy up at the counter and stuff your face full of scrumptious food. You’ll be so glad you did.
