19 Must-Visit Restaurants In Dayton, Ohio
Dayton may be best known for its aviation history, but its food scene is ready for takeoff too.
From cozy diners and bustling cafés to inventive spots serving bold flavors, the city offers something for every craving.
Locals and visitors alike are discovering restaurants where every dish tells a story, whether it’s comfort food done perfectly or creative plates that surprise the palate.
Dayton’s dining scene proves every meal can be an adventure.
1. The Pine Club: Dayton’s Legendary Steakhouse
Cash only, no reservations, and worth every minute of the wait! This time-warp steakhouse hasn’t changed its winning formula since 1947.
Their bone-in ribeyes achieve that perfect charred exterior while maintaining a juicy pink center.
Pair your steak with their famous stewed tomatoes and you’ll understand why even the James Beard Foundation recognizes this Dayton institution.
2. Marion’s Piazza: Thin-Crust Pizza Paradise
Locals will fight you if you claim any other pizza is better! Marion’s square-cut thin crust has been Dayton’s go-to since 1965, consistently ranking in national ‘best pizza’ lists.
The massive dining rooms accommodate everyone from little league teams to first dates.
Try their deluxe pizza loaded with pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, onions, and green peppers – the perfect introduction to Dayton-style pizza.
3. Old Scratch Pizza: Neapolitan Pies with Craft Beer
Wood-fired magic happens daily at this industrial-chic hotspot. Their Naples-imported ovens blast pizzas at 900 degrees, creating that perfect leopard-spotted crust in just 90 seconds.
Communal tables foster a lively atmosphere where strangers become friends over shared pizzas.
The rotating craft beer selection perfectly complements their creative pies – try the ‘Angry Beekeeper’ with spicy honey or their seasonal specials featuring local ingredients.
4. Wheat Penny Oven & Bar: California-Inspired Cuisine
Former vegetarian chef Elizabeth Wiley creates veggie dishes so good they’ll convert carnivores! But meat-lovers fear not – her eggplant fries and perfect pizzas share menu space with incredible burgers.
Bright flavors and seasonal ingredients shine in this sunny space. The California influence is evident in everything from their citrus-forward cocktails to their olive oil-drizzled flatbreads.
Weekend brunch here has become a Dayton tradition worth waking up early for.
5. Meadowlark Restaurant: Farm-to-Table Pioneer
Chef Elizabeth Wiley’s farm-fresh haven predates the farm-to-table trend by years! This cozy spot transforms seasonal Ohio produce into globally-inspired comfort food that wows without pretension.
Their famous turkey sandwich with house-made chutney creates lines at lunch. Dinner brings more sophisticated fare like pan-seared scallops with local vegetables.
The ever-changing menu reflects what’s freshest, making each visit a new culinary adventure.
6. Salar Restaurant and Lounge: Peruvian-Mediterranean Fusion
Tucked in Dayton’s historic Oregon District, Salar blends Chef Margot Blondet’s Peruvian heritage with Mediterranean techniques to create truly unique flavors.
The renovated space balances elegance with approachability. Signature dishes include perfect pisco sours and ceviche that transports you straight to Lima.
Their duck breast with Peruvian purple potato mash exemplifies their fusion approach. The beautiful bar area makes this a perfect special occasion spot.
7. Thai 9: Spice-Filled Thai and Sushi Haven
Housed in a 150-year-old building with exposed brick walls, Thai 9 serves up heat levels that will challenge even the bravest spice warriors!
Their massive menu covers both authentic Thai classics and surprisingly excellent sushi. Regulars swear by the Pad Thai and drunken noodles.
The multi-level dining areas create intimate nooks perfect for date night. Their outdoor patio becomes Dayton’s hottest spot during summer evenings, where local beers flow alongside fiery curries.
8. Coco’s Bistro: Upscale Comfort in a Stylish Setting
From humble beginnings as a sandwich shop, Coco’s has blossomed into one of Dayton’s most sophisticated dining experiences.
The striking red and black decor creates an atmosphere that feels special without being stuffy. Their legendary crab cakes contain barely enough binder to hold the lumps together.
The shrimp and grits showcase southern influence with a gourmet twist. Owner Karen Wick-Gagnet’s warm hospitality makes every guest feel like a regular, even on first visits.
9. The Dublin Pub: Irish Comfort Food Central
Guinness flows freely at this authentic Irish pub where live Celtic music fills the air most weekends.
The sprawling multi-room layout accommodates both rowdy St. Patrick’s Day revelers and quiet corner conversations.
Their Irish egg rolls stuffed with corned beef and cabbage offer a fun fusion twist. Traditional shepherd’s pie and fish and chips transport you straight to Dublin.
The patio becomes Dayton’s liveliest outdoor space during summer evenings.
10. Taqueria Mixteca: Authentic Mexican Treasures
Forget Taco Tuesday – this family-owned gem serves the real deal every day! Handmade tortillas cradle perfectly seasoned meats in this no-frills spot that locals guard jealously.
Their tacos al pastor feature pineapple-marinated pork shaved from a traditional vertical spit.
The pozole soup cures everything from hangovers to heartbreak. Their salsa bar lets you customize heat levels from mild to mind-blowing.
11. Carillon Brewing Co.: History-Infused Dining Experience
America’s only production brewery in a museum serves historically-accurate 1850s beer recipes! Costumed brewers use authentic methods while visitors watch the entire process from grain to glass.
Their menu features German, Irish, and early American dishes that pair perfectly with their unique brews.
Try the sauerkraut balls and pretzel board alongside their smoky porter. The massive stone fireplace creates a cozy atmosphere during Ohio winters.
12. Jay’s Seafood Restaurant: Riverside Seafood Institution
Fresh seafood in landlocked Ohio? Jay’s makes it happen! Housed in a former 19th-century railroad stop, this Dayton institution flies in fresh catches daily.
The massive mahogany bar was salvaged from a historic New Orleans hotel. Their lobster bisque has converted even seafood skeptics.
While pricey by Dayton standards, their perfectly executed classics like oysters Rockefeller and crab-stuffed flounder justify every penny.
13. Grist: Modern American Small Plates
Small plates pack huge flavors at this newcomer that’s rapidly becoming a Dayton favorite! The constantly changing menu showcases local ingredients through a global lens, encouraging sharing and exploration.
The open kitchen lets diners watch culinary magic happen. Their chicken liver mousse converts offal skeptics, while vegetable dishes receive the same careful attention as proteins.
The craft cocktail program features house-infused spirits that complement the innovative food perfectly.
14. The Foundry Rooftop: Skyline Views and Craft Cocktails
Perched atop the Foundry building, this rooftop oasis offers the best views in Dayton alongside inventive cocktails and shareable plates.
The indoor-outdoor space features fire pits that extend the rooftop season well into fall. Their truffle fries disappear from tables within minutes of arrival.
Cocktails incorporate house-made syrups and local spirits. The Dayton sunset becomes dinner theater here, with the city lights creating a magical backdrop as evening falls.
15. The Oakwood Club: Classic Supper Club Excellence
Celebrating special occasions since 1962, this supper club maintains old-school service standards rarely seen today.
White-jacketed servers deliver perfectly cooked steaks and fresh seafood to generations of Dayton families.
Their relish tray starter sets the retro mood immediately. House specialties include escargot, prime rib, and impeccable martinis.
The darkly paneled dining room whispers of business deals and anniversary celebrations that have shaped Dayton for decades.
16. Carvers Steaks & Chops: Premium Cuts in Elegant Setting
Butter-soft filets meet impeccable service at this Washington Township favorite. The dimly lit, white tablecloth atmosphere creates the perfect backdrop for business dinners and romantic evenings alike.
Their dry-aged steaks develop intense flavor through careful aging. The wine list features impressive verticals of notable California cabernets.
Save room for their famous carrot cake – a towering slice easily serves two and comes drizzled with caramel sauce.
17. Nanyea Restaurant & Coffee House: Ethiopian Flavors and Traditions
Communal dining reaches its peak at Dayton’s premier Ethiopian restaurant! Colorful vegetable and meat stews called wats are served atop injera – a sourdough flatbread that functions as both plate and utensil.
Owner Sofi Kinde creates authentic dishes from family recipes passed down through generations.
The traditional coffee ceremony offers a sensory experience beyond just eating. Newcomers find friendly guidance from staff happy to explain the customs and flavors.
18. Mudlick Tap House: Gastropub with Southern Flair
Comfort food gets an upscale twist at this downtown hotspot that began as a tiny bar in rural Kentucky. Their commitment to scratch cooking transforms simple ingredients into crave-worthy dishes.
Fried chicken and waffles arrive drizzled with bourbon maple syrup. The impressive beer list showcases Ohio breweries alongside national craft favorites.
Sunday brunch brings live music and their famous bloody mary bar loaded with outrageous garnishes.
19. Table 33: Brunch Champions and Dietary-Inclusive Haven
Housed in a former bank building with soaring ceilings, Table 33 welcomes everyone to the table regardless of dietary restrictions.
Their scratch kitchen creates gluten-free, vegan, and paleo options that taste like indulgences, not compromises.
The avocado benedict on house-made gluten-free bread has a cult following. Their commitment to locally-sourced ingredients supports Ohio farmers.
The bright, airy space fills with natural light, making it the perfect spot to linger over coffee and conversation.