16 Ohio Restaurants That Transport You Into A Whole Different World
Ohio might surprise you with its collection of extraordinary dining spots that feel worlds away from ordinary life.
Scattered across the state are restaurants so imaginative and immersive that stepping inside feels like starting a mini-adventure.
One minute you’re wandering into a spooky, movie-inspired eatery, the next you’re climbing aboard a vintage train car or settling in for dinner inside a castle tucked deep in the woods.
These places don’t just offer great food, they create memories.
Whether you’re dreaming of German-inspired charm or hoping to dine beneath the branches of a giant indoor tree, the Buckeye State has something wonderfully unexpected waiting for you.
1. The Haunted House Restaurant – Cleveland Heights, Ohio
Step into a world of spooky fun at this horror-movie-themed restaurant where playful scares and pop-culture references line every wall.
The Haunted House Restaurant delivers a bold, theatrical atmosphere with neon lights, character murals, and costumed staff who keep the Halloween spirit alive year-round.
The menu focuses on American comfort food with a fun twist, and the vibe leans more “creepy and colorful” than “haunted mansion.”
Find this lively destination at 13463 Cedar Road in Cleveland Heights, where it’s been thrilling guests since 2021.
2. The Astro – Cleveland, Ohio
Prepare for liftoff at this sci-fi-themed restaurant that transports you straight into a cosmic fantasy.
Murals of galaxies, astronauts, and alien landscapes create an interstellar mood that makes your meal feel like a journey through space.
Instead of retro diner fare, The Astro serves modern American dishes in a sleek, futuristic environment designed for adventure lovers.
Blast off from 230 West Huron Road inside Cleveland’s Tower City Center.
3. Buckeye Express Diner – Bellville, Ohio
All aboard for a nostalgic dining experience inside an actual vintage train car!
The Buckeye Express Diner brings railroad history back to life with a restored passenger car perched on a hill overlooking the countryside.
Guests enjoy hearty Midwestern favorites, burgers, sandwiches, and classic sides, while seated in authentic train-car booths surrounded by railroad memorabilia.
Find this unforgettable stop at 810 State Route 97 West in Bellville.
4. Schmidt’s Sausage Haus und Restaurant – Columbus, Ohio
Welcome to Columbus’ own slice of Bavaria.
Schmidt’s has been serving German favorites in the heart of historic German Village for generations, filling the neighborhood with Old World charm and mouthwatering aromas.
Housemade sausages, schnitzels, and their iconic jumbo cream puffs make each visit a delicious celebration of German heritage.
Enjoy the festivities at 240 East Kossuth Street.
5. Hofbräuhaus Columbus – Columbus (Grandview Heights), Ohio
Raise a stein at this lively Bavarian hall modeled after the world-famous Hofbräuhaus in Munich. With communal tables and traditional German dishes it’s easy to forget you’re still in Ohio.
Live music and a festive atmosphere turn every night into a mini-Oktoberfest.
Visit the fun at 800 Goodale Boulevard in Grandview Heights.
6. The Refectory – Columbus, Ohio
Experience fine French dining inside a beautifully restored 19th-century church.
The Refectory combines soaring architecture with elegant cuisine, offering an atmosphere that feels both historic and sophisticated.
Meticulously crafted dishes and warm, intimate lighting make this landmark a top choice for special occasions and memorable nights out.
Find culinary inspiration at 1092 Bethel Road, where history and haute cuisine come together beautifully.
7. The Golden Lamb – Lebanon, Ohio
Ohio’s oldest continuously operating inn has welcomed travelers since 1803, and stepping inside feels like entering a living museum. Each room is filled with antiques, artifacts, and stories from famous guests including authors, politicians, and presidents.
The menu features classic American cuisine served in a setting rich with history and charm.
Discover this historic treasure at 27 South Broadway in Lebanon.
8. The Copper Mug at Landoll’s Mohican Castle – Loudonville, Ohio
Dine like royalty at this restaurant on the grounds of Landoll’s Mohican Castle, a secluded, forested retreat that feels straight out of a fairy tale.
Rustic woodwork, warm lighting, and castle architecture create a romantic, storybook-like atmosphere.
The menu blends contemporary American cuisine with views of the surrounding Mohican forest.
Claim your table at 561 Township Road 3352 in Loudonville.
9. Ghost Baby – Cincinnati, Ohio
Head deep beneath Cincinnati’s streets to experience one of the most atmospheric bar venues in the Midwest.
Ghost Baby is built inside 19th-century lagering tunnels.
Today, the tunnels have been transformed into a luxe, dimly lit lounge where exposed brick walls, intimate alcoves, and soft lighting set the tone for an unforgettable night out.
Live music and DJ sets often echo through the cavern-like space, adding to the sense that you’ve snuck into an underground secret.
The menu features inventive drinks crafted with precision, along with a thoughtful selection of small plates designed for sharing.
It’s the perfect place for a date night, a celebration, or simply soaking up Cincinnati’s hidden history.
Visit this underground icon at 1314 Republic Street in Over-the-Rhine.
10. Olde Jaol Steakhouse & Tavern – Wooster, Ohio
Dining at Olde Jaol feels like stepping into a historical drama , except this time, the food is far better than anything former inmates would’ve enjoyed.
The restaurant occupies the original Wayne County Jail, built in the mid-19th century, and many architectural details have been preserved.
Thick stone walls, barred windows, and even old cell blocks form the backdrop to one of Ohio’s most unique steakhouse experiences.
Despite the imposing architecture, the atmosphere is warm and welcoming.
The steakhouse side offers premium cuts prepared with finesse, while the tavern provides a more relaxed setting with drinks and approachable favorites.
Together, they create a fascinating blend of old-world grit and modern culinary comfort.
Serve yourself something delicious at 215 North Walnut Street.
11. The Treehouse – Cleveland, Ohio
Tucked into Cleveland’s trendy Tremont neighborhood, The Treehouse offers a whimsical escape wrapped in neighborhood-pub charm.
At the center of the bar stands an enormous, sculptural tree whose branches stretch overhead, weaving through the ceiling and creating a cozy, magical feel.
The décor blends rustic woodwork, lush plants, and soft lighting, more enchanted tavern than literal treehouse, but still an unforgettable vibe.
The pub is known for its creative drinks, generous pours, and upgraded bar bites that elevate a traditional tavern menu.
Whether you’re stopping in for brunch, a casual dinner, or late-night drinks with friends, The Treehouse delivers the perfect mix of comfort and character.
Swing by (figuratively!) at 820 College Avenue.
12. Tin Goose Diner – Port Clinton, Ohio
This beautifully restored 1950s stainless-steel diner gleams like a chrome time capsule parked alongside the Liberty Aviation Museum.
Its reflective exterior, neon accents, and classic stools bring visitors straight back to the golden age of American diners, but with a twist: it’s surrounded by historic airplanes and aviation exhibits.
Inside, the Tin Goose serves up diner staples done right: fluffy pancakes, crisp fries, juicy burgers, and hearty breakfasts that satisfy every craving.
Large windows offer views of the museum hangar, so you might catch glimpses of vintage aircraft while enjoying your meal.
For travelers heading to or from Lake Erie, it’s one of the most charming stops you can make.
Touch down at 3515 East State Road.
13. The Original Tony Packo’s Restaurant – Toledo, Ohio
Tony Packo’s is more than a restaurant, it’s a Toledo legend.
First opened in 1932 by Hungarian immigrants, this café has grown into a beloved institution famous nationwide thanks to its frequent mentions on MASH.
The atmosphere is eclectic and warm, with walls covered in hundreds of signed hot-dog buns from celebrities, musicians, athletes, and even presidents.
But the real star is the food: Hungarian-style hot dogs topped with Packo’s famous chili sauce, alongside pierogies, stuffed cabbage, and other Eastern European comfort classics.
Each dish reflects the restaurant’s heritage and the city’s deep immigrant roots. It’s hearty, nostalgic, and uniquely Ohio.
Stop by the original location at 1902 Front Street.
14. Pins Mechanical Co. – Columbus, Ohio
Pins Mechanical Co. is where retro fun meets industrial chic.
Housed in a sprawling warehouse-style space, this popular Columbus hangout pairs duckpin bowling, classic arcade games, and old-school pinball with a lively social atmosphere.
Strings of Edison bulbs, exposed brick, and colorful neon give the entire space a stylish, modern-vintage feel.
While Pins isn’t a full-service restaurant, guests can enjoy fancy drinks and access to rotating food trucks or partner vendors parked outside.
It’s a place designed for nights out with friends, birthday gatherings, or competitive bowling rivalries that last well into the evening.
The music is upbeat, the energy is high, and the nostalgia factor is off the charts.
Roll into the action at 141 North 4th Street.
15. Grandpa’s Cheesebarn & Sweeties Chocolates – Ashland, Ohio
Grandpa’s Cheesebarn is a paradise for snack lovers and one of Ohio’s quirkiest roadside attractions.
Housed in a barn-style building overflowing with country-store charm, this family-owned business offers hundreds of cheeses, from sharp aged cheddars to bacon-infused blends and unique international varieties.
Beyond cheese, visitors can browse gourmet sauces, jerky, bakery treats, and specialty foods.
The adjoining Sweeties Chocolates satisfies every sweet tooth with handmade confections, truffles, fudge, and nostalgic candies.
It’s not a sit-down restaurant, but it’s a must-stop destination for sampling, shopping, and exploring the best of Ohio-made goods.
Find this flavor-packed treasure at 668 US Route 250.
16. The Barn Restaurant – Smithville, Ohio
Situated inside a beautifully converted barn overlooking a peaceful pond, The Barn Restaurant brings country hospitality to life in the heart of Ohio’s Amish Country.
With soaring wooden beams, cozy booths, and big windows looking out at the water, the atmosphere is as warm and comforting as the food.
The menu features hearty homestyle favorites: crisp fried chicken, slow-roasted meats, fresh-baked rolls, and desserts like pies and cobblers made from scratch.
Generous portions and a family-friendly environment make it a go-to spot for both travelers and locals seeking true farm-country comfort.
Park your appetite at 877 West Main Street.