5 Underrated Drive-Ins In Ohio That Will Have You Coming Back Again
There’s a certain kind of magic in pulling up to a classic drive-in: headlights glowing at dusk, windows rolled down, and the promise of burgers, fries, and frosty shakes arriving right at your car.
It’s nostalgia served on a tray, and in Ohio, that tradition is alive and well.
Beyond the big-name chains, tucked into small towns and backroads, are family-run drive-ins that have been perfecting comfort food for generations.
These hidden spots deliver not only unforgettable flavors but also that timeless sense of community and charm—without draining your wallet.
1. Dalton Dari-Ette: Small Town Treasure With Big Flavors
Last summer, I stumbled upon this Amish Country jewel while taking the scenic route home. The neon sign caught my eye, but the heavenly smell of grilled burgers made me hit the brakes!
Family-owned since 1956, Dalton Dari-ette serves up hand-pattied burgers that put fast food chains to shame. Their signature Dari-Deluxe comes loaded with melty cheese and special sauce that’ll have you licking your fingers clean.
What really knocked my socks off was their homemade ice cream. The black raspberry chip had actual berry chunks and chocolate pieces that melted perfectly on my tongue. Bonus points for the friendly carhops who remember regular customers by name and order!
2. Swensons Drive-In: Akron’s Legendary Burger Haven
Whoever invented the Galley Boy deserves a monument! This double-patty masterpiece with two special sauces and a signature olive on top has fueled my Ohio road trips for years.
What makes Swensons special isn’t just their food – it’s watching the servers sprint (not walk, SPRINT) to your car the moment you pull in. These energetic youngsters dash back and forth regardless of weather, bringing trays of burgers, crispy potato teezers, and thick milkshakes.
Founded in 1934, this Akron institution now has several locations, but each maintains that small-town charm. LeBron James famously had Swensons catered to his welcome-home party when he returned to Cleveland – if it’s good enough for the King, it’s good enough for anyone looking for burger nirvana!
3. Paul’s Drive-In: Shelby’s Flavor Paradise
Grandma always said, “Never trust a skinny cook,” and Paul’s kitchen crew certainly inspires confidence! This Shelby institution has been feeding hungry Ohioans since 1952 with portions that’ll make your eyes bulge.
Their breaded pork tenderloin sandwich extends hilariously beyond the bun – I measured one at nearly 8 inches across! My personal addiction is their loaded fries topped with homemade cheese sauce, bacon bits, and green onions that could easily feed two (but I never share).
Summer evenings bring out their famous butter pecan custard that’s so rich and nutty it makes me weak in the knees. The recipe hasn’t changed in 70 years and hopefully never will. Arrive early on Fridays when locals line up for their weekly fish fry – hand-battered perch that’s crispy outside, flaky inside, and absolutely divine.
4. Dilly’s Drive-In: Akron’s Flavor Factory
“You haven’t lived until you’ve tried our Dilly Burger,” announced the server through my car window. Truer words were never spoken! This Akron area staple makes a burger that’s criminally underrated in the Ohio food scene.
What sets Dilly’s apart is their commitment to the classics done right. Nothing fancy – just perfectly seasoned beef, melty American cheese, and fresh toppings on a toasted bun. Their onion rings are hand-cut daily and drink-battered to crispy perfection.
The real showstopper is their signature root drink float served in a frosty mug the size of my head. Made with locally-produced ice cream and house-brewed root drink it’s the perfect sweet finish. During thunderstorms, they offer “Rainy Day Specials” with discounted comfort foods – a thoughtful touch that keeps locals coming back year after year.
5. Netty’s: Toledo’s Flavor Time Capsule
Grandpa Joe first took me to Netty’s when I was seven, and I’ve been hooked ever since. This Toledo institution hasn’t changed their recipes in over 60 years – thank goodness!
Their chili dogs come smothered in a Greek-inspired meat sauce with hints of cinnamon and allspice that’s utterly unique to Netty’s. The sauce recipe is supposedly locked in a safe and known to only three family members. Paired with their hand-cut curly fries sprinkled with a secret seasoning blend, it’s a combination that haunts my dreams.
What keeps me coming back is their old-fashioned orange sherbet freeze – a creamy, tangy concoction that’s particularly refreshing during humid Toledo summers. The original neon sign still buzzes overhead, and the same families have been pulling into the gravel parking lot for generations, creating a time capsule of Toledo’s culinary history.