Top 10 Best Ohio Restaurants

The top 10 restaurants in Ohio according to millions of reviews from travelers on TripAdvisor, Google, and Yelp are Sullivan's Steakhouse, The Capital Grille, Dante, Jeff Ruby's Steakhouse, Sotto, Boca, The Refectory Restaurant, Schmidt’s Sausage Haus Restaurant, Brassica, and Park Street Pizza. Ohio is known for many famous dishes and cuisines, including chili, ice cream, and pizza. The Cincinnati chili is a Southwestern Ohio culinary staple often served over spaghetti or hot dogs. Graeter's ice cream, founded in Cincinnati, is famous for rich and creamy texture, especially the French Pot ice cream, which is known for generous chocolate chunks. Other must-try foods in Ohio, particularly in Columbus, are the Columbus-style pizza, Katalina's Pancake Balls, The Thurmanator, Schmidt's Cream Puff, Fox in the Snow's Blueberry Galette, and Johnny Marzetti.
Ohio is also a national leader in the production of cottage cheese and sherbet. The state’s main cash crops are soybeans and corn. Also important are wheat, oats, hay, fruit, feed, vegetables, livestock, poultry, and dairy products. Some credit Ohio with inventing pizza bagels and sloppy joes. The Polish boy, a signature sandwich of Cleveland, Ohio, consists of a kielbasa sausage, coleslaw, fries, and barbecue sauce in a bun.
Situated on one of the Great Lakes in North America, Lake Erie, bordered by the mighty Ohio River and full of farm-rich plains and valleys, the Midwestern state possesses a rich allotment of local flavors. Ohio's food industry also benefits from the state’s reputation for food flavoring, with many food flavoring companies located in Southwest Ohio.
Ohio, USA, boasts an excellent culinary scene with 28,735 restaurants and cafes spread across the state. These establishments range from cozy community cafes, bustling city restaurants, and local hangouts. Ohio ranks fifth in the nation for the number of fast food restaurants, with Subway, McDonald's, and Starbucks leading in locations.
The best restaurants in Ohio are listed below:
- Sullivan's Steakhouse
- The Capital Grille
- Dante
- Jeff Ruby's Steakhouse
- Sotto
- Boca
- The Refectory Restaurant
- Schmidt’s Sausage Haus Restaurant
- Brassica
- Park Street Pizza


- 110 Item Prices
- $36.64 Average Item Price
Description:
Sullivan's Steakhouse is celebrated for exceptional USDA Prime beef, seafood, and hand-shaken martinis. The upscale yet relaxed atmosphere offers a perfect setting for business dinners and special occasions.
Type of Restaurant:
Steakhouse
Type of Food:
USDA Prime steaks, seafood, hand-shaken martinis
Signature Dish:
Sullivan's Signature Angus Beef Burger, Three Cheese Mac, Bone-in Ribeye
Location:
Cleveland, Columbus
Special Feature:
Relaxed yet upscale atmosphere ideal for special occasions.
What Makes It Special:
Known for high-quality beef and seafood with impeccable service.
Operating Hours:
Monday to Sunday: 11:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Price:
Starting at $30 per person

- 37 Item Prices
- $21.78 Average Item Price
Description:
The Capital Grille is renowned for dry-aged steaks and fresh seafood, offering an elegant dining experience with an extensive wine list.
Type of Restaurant:
Steakhouse, Seafood
Type of Food:
Dry-aged steaks, fresh seafood, gourmet sides
Signature Dish:
Bone-in Ribeye Steak, Seared Tenderloin with Butter Poached Lobster Tails, and Lobster Mac and Cheese
Location:
Cleveland, Columbus
Special Feature:
Impeccable service and extensive wine list.
What Makes It Special:
Focus on dry-aged steaks and refined ambiance for special occasions.
Operating Hours:
Monday to Sunday: 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Price:
Starting at $40 per person

- 51 Item Prices
- $20.96 Average Item Price
Description:
Dante blends contemporary American cuisine with international influences, offering an intimate and sophisticated dining environment with seasonal tasting menus.
Type of Restaurant:
Contemporary American
Type of Food:
Seasonal dishes, tasting menus
Signature Dish:
Pappardelle Bolognese, Carnaroli Risotto, Duck Confit
Location:
Cleveland
Special Feature:
Tasting menus with international flavors.
What Makes It Special:
Upscale, intimate setting perfect for sophisticated dining.
Operating Hours:
Monday to Sunday: 10:00 PM - 12:00 MN
Price:
Starting at $30 per person

- 114 Item Prices
- $21.82 Average Item Price
Description:
Jeff Ruby's Steakhouse offers high-quality steaks, seafood, and vibrant atmosphere, complete with opulent decor and live entertainment.
Type of Restaurant:
Steakhouse, Seafood
Type of Food:
Steaks, seafood, live entertainment
Signature Dish:
New York Strip, Filet Mignon, Porterhouse Steak
Location:
Cincinnati
Special Feature:
Opulent decor with live entertainment.
What Makes It Special:
High-energy atmosphere combined with exceptional steaks and seafood.
Operating Hours:
Monday to Sunday: 5:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Price:
Starts at $41 per person

- 87 Item Prices
- $15.46 Average Item Price
Description:
Sotto offers a cozy, rustic ambiance with house-made pasta and wood-fired dishes, perfect for a romantic dinner.
Type of Restaurant:
Italian
Type of Food:
House-made pasta, wood-fired dishes, and contemporary Italian cuisine.
Signature Dish:
Goat Cheese Bread, Ricotta Donuts, Pork Schnitzel
Location:
Cincinnati, Ohio
Special Feature:
Rustic, cozy ambiance ideal for intimate dining.
What Makes It Special:
Inviting atmosphere and focus on authentic, high-quality ingredients.
How It Stands Apart:
Uses fresh, locally sourced ingredients for dishes served in a rustic, intimate setting
Operating Hours:
Monday to Sunday: 11:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Price:
Starts at $30 per person

- 34 Item Prices
- $8.50 Average Item Price
Description:
The Refectory Restaurant is a fine dining establishment offering French-inspired cuisine, paired with an extensive wine cellar. Its elegant, converted church setting creates a unique and memorable dining experience.
Type of Restaurant:
French-inspired fine dining
Type of Food:
French cuisine with a focus on quality ingredients and fine wines.
Signature Dish:
Duck and Rabbit Dish, Fried Salmon Mousse with Scallops, Escargot
Location:
Columbus, Ohio
Special Feature:
Converted church setting and an extensive wine cellar.
What Makes It Special:
The unique ambiance of a church setting combined with high-end French cuisine.
How It Stands Apart:
Fine dining excellence with a focus on refinement and atmosphere.
Operating Hours:
Tuesday to Saturday: 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Price:
$60 to $100 per person

- 51 Item Prices
- $11.08 Average Item Price
Description:
Schmidt’s Sausage Haus Restaurant offers a casual, beer hall atmosphere, specializing in German cuisine such as sausages and cream puffs. It is a popular destination for families and groups.
Type of Restaurant:
German cuisine
Type of Food:
German sausages, cream puffs, and traditional beer hall fare.
Signature Dish:
Bratwurst Platter, Old World Sausage Sampler, Apple Struddel
Location:
Columbus, Ohio
Special Feature:
Casual beer hall setting perfect for family and group dining.
What Makes It Special:
Authentic German flavors and family-friendly atmosphere.
How It Stands Apart:
Unique beer hall dining experience combined with classic German dishes.
Operating Hours:
Monday to Sunday: 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Price:
Starting at $20 per person
What Food is Ohio Famous For?
Ohio is famous for several iconic dishes that showcase the state’s traditions and cultural influences from various parts of the world, such as the Cincinnati chili, Graeter's ice cream, Columbus-style pizza, Lake Erie perch, pierogies, and kuchen. Ohio’s most famous food, the Cincinnati chili, is a unique dish often served over spaghetti or hot dogs. Graeter's ice cream comes second, and is known for its creamy texture and large chocolate chunks. Among the best foods in Ohio is the Columbus-style pizza, characterized by distinct square slices and a thin crust. Eastern European influences can be found in dishes like pierogies and kuchen, while BBQ styles perfected by local pitmasters offer smoky, flavorful meats.
What is the Ohio State Dish?
Ohio's state dish is the Cincinnati chili, a distinctive chili with Greek origins, introduced in the 1920s by Greek immigrants in Cincinnati. Unlike traditional chili, Cincinnati chili is a thin, spiced meat sauce made with cinnamon, allspice, and cocoa, giving it a sweet-savory flavor. The Cincinnati chili is typically served over spaghetti or hot dogs, topped with shredded cheddar cheese, onions, and kidney beans. Variations include "two-way" (chili on spaghetti) and "three-way" (with cheese). The Cincinnati chili’s smooth texture and rich flavor make it a beloved part of Ohio’s culinary heritage.
What is the Average Cost of Meal in Ohio?
The average cost of a meal in Ohio can vary significantly depending on the type of dining experience. Single meals at budget restaurants range from $10 to $20 per person. Mid-range restaurants offer meals for one that cost between $20 and $40, with a wider assortment of dishes and a more comfortable dining atmosphere. Group meals generally cost more, with meals for four at budget restaurants ranging from $40 to $80, while at mid-range restaurants, costs can rise to $100 to $160 for the same group. High-end restaurants or fine dining establishments in Ohio may cost from $50 to $100 depending on the restaurant's reputation and the dishes selected. Group meals at fine dining restaurants can easily reach $200 to $400 for a group of four. Some of the best fine dining restaurants in Ohio include the Marble Room Steaks and Raw Bar and the Refectory Restaurant.
What are the Most Popular Fast-food Restaurants in Ohio?
The most popular fast-food restaurants in Ohio and the best fast food in Ohio are listed below:
- McDonald's: Remains the top choice for burgers, fries, and breakfast options with 613 locations across the state.
- Subway: Offers customizable sandwiches operating 959 locations in Ohio, making it a popular choice for a quick and healthy meal.
- Starbucks: Consistently known for coffee and light meals, Starbucks has 519 locations statewide, providing a convenient stop for many.
- Wendy's: Famous for square burgers and Frosty desserts with a strong presence in Ohio.
- Taco Bell: Serves fast Mexican-inspired dishes like tacos and burritos and is widely popular across the state.
- Chick-fil-A: Famous for chicken sandwiches and salads, Chick-fil-A has gained popularity in Ohio with numerous locations.
- Five Guys: Popular for fresh premium burgers and fries and is a top choice for those looking for a gourmet-style fast food experience.
- Chipotle: Offers customizable burritos, bowls, and tacos with a significant presence in Ohio.
Ohio has 46.43 fast-food locations per 100,000 people, ranking fifth in the nation for fast-food density. According to CashNetUSA, about 37% of U.S. adults consume fast food daily. Quick, affordable, and delicious, fast food aligns perfectly with a culture focused on efficiency, instant solutions, and financial constraints.
What are the Newest Restaurants in Ohio?
The newest restaurants in Ohio are listed below:
- Café Lola, Chagrin Falls: Rick Doody took over Bell & Flower and began an ambitious renovation project. The 150-year-old property will reopen as Café Lola, offering classic bistro fare in a space featuring tin ceilings, wood floors, and exposed brick walls.
- Birdietown, Lakewood: Lakewood will soon be home to Birdietown, a two-level mini-golf emporium in the Nest facility. The 12,000-square-foot venue will feature an 18-hole indoor miniature golf course, two bars, and a menu crafted by chef Jill Vedaa, opening in late fall or early winter.
- Fiamma, Woodmere: Mendel Segal, known for his kosher BBQ spot Mendel’s Kansas City BBQ, is opening Fiamma, a kosher Italian restaurant. The menu will feature wood-fired pizzas and housemade pastas. The restaurant will replace Mabel’s BBQ at Eton Chagrin Boulevard.
- Batuqui, Cleveland: Batuqui, a popular Brazilian restaurant, is relocating after nearly a decade on Larchmere Boulevard. The new location in a former church will highlight the building's stained-glass windows and soaring ceilings, with Brazilian dishes like feijoada and xim-xim.
- Wolf & Co., Bay Village: Dan Deagan and Mandi Burman will open Wolf & Co., a wine bar in Bay Village. The wine bar will offer starters, salads, thin-crust pizzas, and a variety of wines in an attractive space perfect for date nights.
- Kyuramen, Strongsville: Kyuramen will open the first Ohio location at SouthPark Mall. Known for ramen and unique seating design, the restaurant will also feature tempura, yakitori, and other Japanese dishes in a modern setting.
- Build the Pho, Ohio City & North Olmsted: Build the Pho is expanding with two new locations in Ohio City and North Olmsted. Known for build-your-own pho bowls, the restaurants will offer a streamlined QR code-based ordering system for diners.
- Issho Ni Izakaya & Sushi Kuwahata, Ohio City: Issho Ni Izakaya, a Japanese small plates restaurant, will open in the renovated VFW building in Ohio City. Sushi Kuwahata, located upstairs, will focus on a high-end omakase experience with a 20-course meal.
- Boom's Pizza, Lakewood & Shaker Heights: Boom’s Pizza, celebrated for award-winning fermented dough, expanded from Lakewood to a second location in the Van Aken District in Shaker Heights.
- Bad Medicine, West Park, Cleveland: Opened in summer 2024, Bad Medicine features a hi-fi vinyl bar with state-of-the-art audio equipment. The kitchen serves sandwiches, salads, and cocktails, and bartenders act as DJs, adding to the vibrant atmosphere.
- 56 Social, Shaker Heights: 56 Social, a fast-casual restaurant by the owners of 56 Kitchen, will offer both dine-in and carryout options, serving quality prepared food in a casual setting.
Are the Fancy Restaurants in Ohio Ideal for Couples?
Yes, fancy restaurants in Ohio are ideal for couples. Many fancy restaurants in Ohio offer intimate settings, fine dining, and exceptional service. They also offer private dining options, customized menus, and special touches like anniversary desserts or champagne toasts for events. The Refectory in Columbus is one of the fanciest, known for French cuisine and elegant atmosphere, often chosen for anniversaries and romantic dinners. Fancy dining options also include Pier W, The Palazzo, Don's Lighthouse Grille, Foundation Room House of Blues Cleveland, DANTE, and Literary Tavern.
What Restaurant in Ohio Serve Vegan Food?
The restaurants in Ohio that serve vegan food are Village Farmacy, Mindful Table, Ritual Juicery, Ely's To Go, and Bee Vegan. Village Farmacy, located at 311 S Main St, at Poland Library, Poland, Ohio, is a vegan neighborhood cafe with a full menu, a coffee bar, and to-go fare, serving sandwiches with house-made vegan meats, bagels, soups, baked goods, and more. Mindful Table, The Hills at 4336 W Central Ave, Toledo, Ohio, is a fully vegan and gluten-free bakery and deli with a daily changing menu that includes hot and cold deli items and baked goods. Ritual Juicery offers smoothie bowls, savory bowls, and dishes such as Pad Thai and salads, with organic, gluten-free, plant-based, non-GMO, and sugar-free options. Ely's To Go, at 850 E Western Reserve Ste 7, Boardman, Ohio, provides vegan American fast food for take-out only. Bee Vegan, located on S Second St, Dayton, Ohio, is a vegan pop-up offering vegan cheeseburgers, alfredo, cheese steaks, creamy mushroom udon, fried chicken cauliflower, “beef” tacos, loaded fries, cheesecake, cookies, cinnamon rolls, and more.
What Restaurant in Ohio Serve Gluten-Free Food?
The top restaurants in Ohio that serve gluten-free food are Kathy’s Creations, Virtues, Mrs. P’s GF Bakery, Gregory’s Family Restaurant, Sinfully Gluten Free, Brown Dog Cafe, Embers, Anna In The Raw, and Boca.
Kathy’s Creations, located in Alliance, OH, offers a variety of gluten-free baked goods and treats in a dedicated gluten-free environment. Virtues, found in Akron, OH, provides a menu with numerous gluten-free options in a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. Mrs. P’s GF Bakery, located in Bedford, OH, is a dedicated gluten-free bakery known for delicious pastries, bread, and custom cakes. Gregory’s Family Restaurant, situated in Canton, OH, features a menu with gluten-free choices in a family-friendly setting. Sinfully Gluten Free, in Centerville, OH, is a dedicated gluten-free restaurant and bakery offering a wide range of savory dishes and sweet treats. Brown Dog Cafe, based in Cincinnati, OH, serves a variety of gluten-free meals in a relaxed, upscale environment. Embers, also in Cincinnati, OH, is a fine dining restaurant known for gluten-free steaks, seafood, and other gourmet dishes. Anna In The Raw, located in Cleveland, OH, offers dishes like Kale Chips, Raw Vegan Burger, Curry Tofu Wrap, Grilled Chicken Sandwich, Oreo Mousse Cake, Pumpkin Praline Cakes, and Hebe. Boca, situated in Cincinnati, OH, is known for Beef Wellington, Amish Chicken Risotto, Grilled Romaine, Seafood Risotto, Buckeye Candy, Beet Salad, Beef Tenderloin, Hamachi Crudo, Blue Oven Bad Boy, and Pommes Souffles.
Are Restaurants in Ohio Healthy?
Yes, there are many healthy restaurants in Ohio. Restaurants like Northstar Cafe, Portia's Cafe, Townhall, Market 65 Eatery & Bar, and First Watch offer menus that cater to health-conscious diners. Northstar Cafe is known for fresh, organic ingredients and creative dishes. Portia's Cafe is a go-to for those with food allergies or intolerances, ensuring a safe dining experience with a focus on healthy options. Townhall is praised for healthy and delicious menu items, while Market 65 Eatery & Bar serves fresh, clean food with generous portions of salads and other healthy dishes. First Watch offers a variety of nutritious breakfast and lunch options, such as the Veggie Quinoa Crave-A-Bowl. Despite the presence of these healthy dining options, Ohio faces challenges in overall health. The state ranks 44th in the nation in health value, which considers both population health and healthcare spending. According to the United States Department of Agriculture, at least 1.5 million Ohioans live in areas without adequate access to healthy food, known as food deserts.
Is Ohio a Good Destination for Food?
Yes, Ohio is a good destination for food, offering a rich blend of traditional American fare and innovative cuisine. Cities like Columbus and Cincinnati are especially notable, with Columbus ranking 8th on Condé Nast Traveler’s Best Food Cities in the U.S. for 2024. The city is celebrated for culinary diversity, featuring acclaimed restaurants like Agni and local favorites such as Ray Ray’s Hog Pit. Five Ohio cities made the cut onto WalletHub’s 2023 list of Best Foodie Cities, with Cincinnati ranking 25th with Abigail Street, Cleveland at 54th with Cent’s Pizza, Columbus at 55th with Hiraeth, Toledo at 112th with Registry Bistro, and Akron at 136th with Ido Bar & Grille.
What are the Famous Cuisines in Ohio?
The famous cuisines in Ohio are listed below:
- American Cuisine: Traditional American fare is widely popular in Ohio, especially comfort foods like burgers, fries, and steaks.
- Cincinnati Cuisine: Unique to Ohio, Cincinnati cuisine is influenced by German heritage and includes specialties like Cincinnati chili and sausages, often served with a side of sauerkraut or over spaghetti.
- German Cuisine: Ohio has a strong German influence, especially in cities like Cleveland and Cincinnati. Dishes such as sausages, bratwurst, and sauerkraut, along with hearty beers, are commonly enjoyed.
- Polish Cuisine: Ohio’s Eastern European immigrant communities, particularly in Cleveland, have made Polish cuisine a staple, which includes pierogi (dumplings), kielbasa (sausage), and other comfort foods.
- Italian Cuisine: Ohio's large Italian-American population brings a rich offering of Italian dishes, such as pizza, pasta, and hearty meat dishes. Cities like Cleveland and Columbus are known for Italian eateries.
- Southern Cuisine: Ohio, particularly in southern areas, has embraced Southern-style cooking, featuring dishes like fried chicken, biscuits, and gravy, often with a side of collard greens or cornbread.
- Asian Cuisine: Ohio's growing Asian influence includes cuisines from China, Japan, Korea, and Vietnam. Popular dishes include sushi, Korean barbecue, and pho, particularly in larger cities like Columbus and Cincinnati.
- Barbecue Cuisine: Ohio features a variety of regional barbecue styles, including smoked meats like pulled pork and ribs, with a focus on flavorful sauces.
- Midwestern Cuisine: Part of the Midwest, Ohio showcases hearty, comfort-driven dishes such as casseroles, mashed potatoes, corn, and pork. Corn on the cob, meatloaf, and fried chicken are staples in many Ohio homes and restaurants.
What Type of Food Does Ohio Usually Offer?
Ohio restaurants serve a range of comfort foods, reflecting the state's Midwestern roots. Good food in Ohio include American staples like burgers, fried chicken, and sandwiches, along with regional specialties such as Cincinnati chili and barbecue. Italian-American dishes like pizza and pasta are also prevalent, as well as German and Polish foods such as sausages and pierogi, especially in cities like Cleveland and Cincinnati. Cooking techniques often involve grilling, smoking, slow cooking, and deep frying, with many restaurants prioritizing locally sourced ingredients for freshness. Ohio's food industry is a major player, producing 24 million tons of grains annually, including being the top producer of soft red wheat and the third-largest producer of tomatoes. The state is home to over 1,300 food manufacturing facilities, processing meat, dairy, eggs, and other products, with companies like J.M. Smucker, Nestlé, and Great Lakes Cheese leading the way.
Does Ohio Have a Unique Dish?
Yes, Ohio is known for unique dishes such as the Cincinnati-style chili, Goetta, and Polish Boy. Cincinnati-style chili is popular at Skyline Chili, often served over spaghetti with cheese and onions. This chili was created by Greek immigrant Nicholas Lambrinidis in 1949. Goetta, a savory breakfast sausage made from pork, beef, spices, and steel-cut oats, is mainly fried and served in numerous restaurants all over Cincinnati. The Polish Boy, a Cleveland specialty, is a sandwich made with kielbasa, a smoked sausage made from pork or beef.
What Food Do Famous Restaurants Serve in Ohio?
Famous restaurants in Ohio serve a variety of comfort food, such as burgers, wings, pancakes, and chicken and waffles. Notable spots include Skyline Chili, offering Cincinnati-style chili, Bob Evans, known for hearty breakfast dishes, and The Melt Bar and Grilled, which specializes in gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches. Cedar Point also serves classic American dishes, such as burgers and wings.
Do the Best Places to Eat in Ohio Serve Good Food?
Yes, Ohio’s best places to eat serve excellent food. Notable spots like The Northstar Cafe, known for healthy but flavorful options like the Northstar Burger, and The Refectory, a long-standing top restaurant, demonstrate the high quality of food served in the state. Ohio restaurants also feature diverse dishes, such as Alqueria Farmhouse Kitchen’s fried chicken, The Guild House’s seasonal pancake brunch, and The Pearl’s seafood options.