7 Iconic Restaurants That Define Ohio’s Dining Scene
Ohio’s food scene is more than just a collection of restaurants—it’s a living, breathing history lesson served one plate at a time. From bustling city neighborhoods to quiet small towns, the Buckeye State is filled with hidden gems and iconic eateries that reflect its diverse heritage.
Over the years, I’ve crisscrossed Ohio with fork in hand, discovering spots that locals fiercely defend as their own and that visitors plan entire road trips to experience.
These seven establishments stand out not only for their unforgettable flavors but also for the traditions and memories they’ve nurtured across generations, making them true cultural landmarks.
1. Schmidt’s Sausage Haus: German Village’s Hearty Soul
The moment you step into Schmidt’s, the heavenly aroma of sausages and sauerkraut wraps around you like a warm German hug! My first visit happened during a snowstorm, making their signature Bahama Mama sausage and potato pancakes taste even more magical.
Five generations of the Schmidt family have perfected their craft since 1886, creating an experience that’s equal parts Old World charm and Midwestern hospitality.
The half-pound cream puffs are legendary—I’ve seen grown adults arm-wrestle for the last one. Come hungry and leave with stories. That’s the Schmidt’s way!
2. Golden Lamb: America’s Oldest Continuously Operating Hotel
Presidents, celebrities, and regular folks like me have been crossing the threshold of Lebanon’s Golden Lamb since 1803. Imagine that—Thomas Jefferson was president when they started serving meals here! Walking through the creaky floorboards of this historic establishment feels like time travel.
Each dining room tells a different story, named after the famous guests who slept here—from Charles Dickens to Ronald Reagan.
Their legendary fried chicken and sister Lizzie’s table rolls remain unchanged for generations. I accidentally knocked over my water glass during my visit, and the kind server winked, “Don’t worry, that floor’s seen 200 years of spills.”
3. Guarino’s: Little Italy’s Time Capsule
Cleveland’s oldest restaurant still makes me giddy every time I visit! Opened in 1918 as a speakeasy during Prohibition, Guarino’s walls practically whisper secrets from the past century. The homemade pasta recipes haven’t changed since Mama Guarino first rolled dough in her kitchen.
My grandmother swears their marinara sauce is identical to what she tasted on her first date here in 1952! The garden patio transforms into a magical escape from city life during summer evenings.
Family photos line the walls alongside celebrity signatures, creating an atmosphere where everyone feels like they’re coming home, even on their first visit.
4. Ringside Café: Columbus’ Hidden Boxing Haven
Tucked behind an unassuming door in downtown Columbus sits a 125-year-old time capsule where boxing memorabilia covers every inch of wall space. My first Ringside burger came with a side of history lesson from a bartender whose grandfather drank here during the Great Depression!
Opened in 1897, the Ringside survived Prohibition by operating as a secret boxing venue—hence the name. The worn wooden bar has supported the elbows of politicians, celebrities, and everyday Columbus residents seeking refuge and a good meal.
Their burgers are knockout champions, but the real heavyweight is the atmosphere that makes everyone feel like they’ve discovered Columbus’ best-kept secret.
5. Thurman Cafe: Home of Ohio’s Mightiest Burger
“Are you sure you want The Thurmanator?” the server asked with a knowing smile when I foolishly thought I could conquer this legendary beast solo. Two 12-ounce patties stacked with ham, mozzarella, American cheese, bacon, mushrooms, onions, lettuce, tomato, pickle, and mayo—it’s less a burger and more a skyscraper of deliciousness!
Since 1942, this German Village institution has been testing the jaw strength of hungry Ohioans.
The walls, plastered with sports memorabilia and signed dollar bills, tell stories of countless food challenges attempted. Cash-only and no reservations means there’s always a wait, but as locals say, “You’re not really from Columbus until you’ve waited for a Thurman burger.”
6. Montgomery Inn: The Ribs King of Cincinnati
Bob Hope once flew Montgomery Inn ribs to Hollywood parties—that’s how legendary these saucy wonders have become! My Cincinnati-born uncle refuses to visit family without a mandatory stop for what he calls “the only ribs worth unbuttoning your pants for.”
Founded in 1951 by Ted and Matula Gregory, this riverside institution serves ribs with a sweet-tangy sauce so popular they now sell bottles nationwide.
The original location still feels like stepping into a cozy family gathering where everyone just happens to have barbecue sauce on their fingers. Celebrity photos line the walls—a testament to how these humble ribs attracted presidents, sports legends, and stars for decades.
7. Skyline Chili: Cincinnati’s Quirky Culinary Claim to Fame
“Three-way, four-way, or five-way?” That’s the question that confused me during my first Skyline visit until I realized it’s the local code for how many toppings you want on your Cincinnati-style chili!
Greek immigrant Nicholas Lambrinides created this cinnamon-spiced meat sauce in 1949, forever changing Ohio’s food identity. Served over spaghetti and topped with a mountain of finely shredded cheddar cheese, Skyline Chili isn’t just food—it’s a regional religion.
Locals debate favorite locations with the passion usually reserved for sports teams. My Cincinnati friends made me promise not to leave until I tried a cheese coney (hot dog with chili and cheese). Now I crave them weekly!