
Food is more than simply fuel for our bodies. Throughout the years, cultures have defined, and been defined by, cuisines that reveal much about a specific time and place.
Get a fascinating glimpse into how Ohio's past ties into its present with a visit to one of these historic restaurants in Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati.
3164 Fulton Rd., Cleveland, OH 44109
Despite the unassuming name, Johnny's Bar is a true icon among Northeast Ohio restaurants. Its roots go back to the glamorous days of the 1920s when Louise's Garden became a top dining destination. The name changed in 1952, but the restaurant continued to offer upscale Northern Italian cuisine and impeccable four-star service. Thanks to the addition of heaters, you can enjoy filet au Poivre and pasta Putanaise on the stunning courtyard year-round. Reservations are strongly recommended. Hours are 5 p.m. - 10 p.m. Monday through Wednesday, 11:30 a.m. - 10 p.m. Thursday, 11:30 a.m. - 11 p.m. Friday and 5 p.m. - 11 p.m. Saturday.
10150 Plymouth St., Hanoverton, OH 44423
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More than 150 years ago, Hanover was a thriving commercial port as well as a major stop on the historic Underground Railroad. During that lively era, the Spread Eagle Tavern was constructed by many of the same artisans who had worked on the Sandy & Beaver Canal. The upscale menu includes traditional favorites such as beef Wellington, pan-seared elk, and Maryland crab cakes. Reservations are strongly recommended. Lunch and dinner are served seven days a week, beginning at 11:30 a.m.
21490 Lorain Rd., Fairview Park, OH 44126
Legend has it that whiskey salesman Henry J. Gunselman acquired the bar that bears his name in 1936 when the previous owner couldn't pay the liquor bill. What's not in dispute is that Gunselman's Tavern serves up the best burgers in town, prepared old-school style in a cast-iron skillet. In addition to menu mainstays such as Black & Bleu and the Beast, "Gunny's" offers a special Burger of the Month. Order online for curbside pickup or delivery. Gunselman's is open 11 a.m. - 11 p.m. daily except Sunday when doors close at 9 p.m.
240 E. Kossuth St., Columbus, OH 43206
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In Central Ohio, the Schmidt name has a long and illustrious association with food. The family-owned company, started in 1886 by German immigrant J. Fred Schmidt, includes a meat-packing plant, fair concession business, and Schmidt's Sausage Haus. With their signature sausage platters and authentic dishes such as cabbage rolls and weinerschnitzel, Schmidt's is still one of the most popular destinations in German Village. Hours are 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. daily.
819 Mohawk St., Columbus, OH 43206
Ghosts of bootleggers past keep watch over The Old Mohawk, which is rumored to have begun life as a speakeasy during the 1920s. Mohawk's famed turtle soup is a tradition from those days of old, when the ill-fated turtles were supposedly raised in the building's basement. In addition to the soup, the restaurant's signature meatloaf, and chorizo and beef lasagna are available as family dinners for four to serve at home. Mohawk is open seven days a week from 11 a.m. until 9 p.m., with extended hours until 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.
5030 Sawyer Rd., Columbus, OH 43219
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Aviators played a crucial role during World War II, and one of the most famous was Columbus native Eddie Rickenbacker, whose 94th Aero Squadron gave the restaurant its name. Situated between runways of the Port Columbus Airport, the restaurant is located in a 1917 French farmhouse filled with military memorabilia. The steakhouse-style menu includes the finest quality cuts of beef along with a selection of classic side dishes. Hours are 4 - 9 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday, with brunch served on Sunday from 10 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
210 E. Eighth St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
At a sprightly 150+ years old, Arnold's Bar and Grill is the oldest tavern in Cincinnati, but it wears its age well. The old-school fixtures blend with new additions such as the courtyard dining area and music stage. Arnold's signature Greek spaghetti, made with olives, bacon, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, has been a fixture on the menu since 1957. In a nod to the present, the Sean Evans Hot Ones burger is a tribute to a trendy YouTube celebrity. Hours are 4 - 9 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday and 4 - 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
302 E. University Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45219
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The prominence of Mecklenburg Gardens extends far beyond Cincinnati. In 1976, the restaurant was listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and it's been recognized as one of the top beer gardens in the country by sources such as Travel + Leisure and Thrillist. The charming building, with its canopy of decades-old grapevines, dates back to 1865. Customer favorites include the sauerkraut balls and portabella spaetzle, especially when paired with one of the German beers on tap. Hours are 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday.
1000 Elm St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
Washington Platform Saloon & Restaurant may be part of Cincinnati's history, but they bring the flavor of the Deep South to the Buckeye State. The restaurant's Canal Room refers to the building's location near the site of the once-thriving Miami-Erie Canal, while the original lagering cellars beneath the room are a regular stop on walking tours of the city. Menu highlights include shrimp and grits, Cajun grilled snapper, and Southern-fried oysters. Hours are 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. Sunday.
What food did you hate as a kid that you just love as an adult?

From improving your mood to strengthening your immune system, there are many benefits of going outside and taking a walk. The Cincinnati area is full of parks and outdoor areas perfect for everyone, from hardcore hikers to casual dog walkers.
Next time you want to get some exercise and enjoy the great outdoors, consider visiting one of these eight beautiful parks.
1558 Stanford Dr., Cincinnati, OH 45223
Located in Cincinnati's Northside neighborhood, Buttercup Valley Preserve is a great option for avid nature hikers. The trails are very wooded, with steep inclines that will offer you a bit of a challenge. This trail is nestled in the middle of some of the city's best neighborhoods and is an excellent getaway that will make you forget that you're still in the city.
You'll find lots of flora and fauna in the preserve, including some trees that are over 200 years old. There are multiple walking and hiking trails here, including one that will provide a memorable view of Spring Grove Cemetery.
5090 Observatory Circle, Cincinnati, OH 45208
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As the highest point in Hyde Park, Ault park offers stunning views of the city. It's home to a 1.4-mile walking, hiking, and mountain biking trail that is one of the city's best-kept secrets.
This trail is hilly and will offer a bit of a challenge. However, once you get through it, you'll find that the beautiful views, scenery, and wildlife are well worth the effort. Many residents and visitors agree that this is one of the most beautiful parks in the Cincinnati area.
Riverside Dr. & Corbin St., Cincinnati, OH 45226
You can't beat the views on the Ohio River Trail. Once it's complete, this 23-mile trail will span along the north bank of the river. It runs from Coney Island through downtown to Sayler Park. While areas are still under construction, you can still enjoy 10 miles of it now. When it's completed, it will connect downtown to the Little Miami Scenic Trail and eventually extend all the way to Lake Erie.
There are many fun things to do here, including swinging on the 2-3 person swings, splashing in the interactive fountain, and riding the carousel. This family-friendly series of trails are ideal for running, walking, and biking. It's perfect for people of all ages and fitness levels.
6168 Given Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45243
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An easy urban trail with a lot of foot traffic, Red Bird Hollow Trail offers a nice walk near the river with plenty to see. It's a 3-mile in-and-out trail that's popular for running, hiking, and nature walks. We recommend starting at the top of the trail where you'll find plenty of parking spots.
This trail is also dog-friendly, although you must keep your furry friend on a leash while your walk. Generally, it's safest and most pleasant to use this trail between April and October.
3012 Section Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45237
One of the area's most underrated parks, French Park offers several looping trails that are good for walkers of all skill levels. Some areas offer a moderate challenge and a few inclines that might even qualify as strenuous.
This is an excellent kid-friendly trail. Little ones especially love heading down by the creek to explore. When you finish your walk, plan to drive to the top of the park to enjoy a beautiful view and a picnic lunch.
5083 Colerain Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45223
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The 1,459-acre Mt. Airy Forest is Cincinnati's largest park. It offers miles of hiking trails, a multi-use mountain biking trail, and bridle trails for horseback riders. It also has an enclosed dog park, disc golf, and Ohio's only wheelchair-accessible public treehouse. There are also picnic tables, charcoal grills, and swing sets, so you and the family can relax and spend an entire day exploring the park and taking in the beautiful scenery.
Mill Creek Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45233
The multi-use Mill Creek Greenway Trail currently spans just three and a half miles along the historic Mill Creek. However, plans are in the works to someday extend it to run over 50 miles and link to the Ohio River Trail.
There's a lot of cool stuff to see, including the Freedom Tree Edible Garden, where you're free to pick an apple or a pear and enjoy a tasty snack. You'll also want to visit the trail after dark so you can check out the 3/4-mile Space Walk, a 3.5-billion-to-one scale model of the solar system. Whether you prefer to walk, run, or bike, you'll want to add this trail to your list of "must-visit" sites.
5400 Kellogg Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45230
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The 113-acre California Woods Nature Preserve features more than 200 species of plants and 53 species of trees. Lick Run Creek also runs through the preserve. Here you'll find small fish, kingfishers, snapping turtles, beavers, ducks, and more.
There's also a hummingbird and butterfly garden in front of the nature center. If you keep your eyes peeled, you might see some woodpeckers and great horned owls as well. When you hike these trails, there's a good chance you'll get so caught up in the scenery that you'll forget you're also exercising.
Which walk-worthy park will you visit first?

Valentine's Day is just around the corner, but planning the perfect date night might be tricky this year given indoor dining restrictions and health and safety concerns. However, that doesn't mean you can't enjoy the holiday with your sweetie in the comfort of your own home. With so many fantastic Ohio restaurants offering Valentine's Day takeout, you can have a date night at your own dining room table or while watching your favorite movie.
Whether you're planning to celebrate with your special someone or just getting together with a group of friends, a delicious meal is at the center of every great Valentine's Day. Below are some of our recommendations for Valentine's Day takeout around Ohio.
2198 Murray Hill Rd., Cleveland, OH 44106
Nothing says romance quite like a classic Italian dinner, so we recommend trying Michelangelo's Italian Restaurant in Cleveland. With exquisite Italian cuisine prepared by award-winning chef Michael Annandono, this restaurant is absolutely fantastic. The menu features a variety of pasta, meats, and fish, and for dessert, you can enjoy some of the best Tiramisu in Cleveland. Takeout is available for both pickup and delivery, and you can place your order online.
13664 Pearl Rd., Strongsville, OH 44136
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If you're just south of Cleveland, you might want to consider Don's Pomeroy House for takeout this year. This historic restaurant is on the National Register of Historic Places and is also a popular Valentine's Day destination. They serve a variety of winter comfort foods like Kobe Meatloaf and Chicken Parmesan as well as seafood sources from all over the world. If you'd prefer not to dine-in this year, you can order your food to-go, or for a truly romantic option, reserve one of their outdoor winter igloos.
11401 Bellflower Rd., Cleveland, OH 44106
Located in an old carriage house near Case Western Reserve University, L'Albatros is a classic Valentine's Day destination near Cleveland. This year, their entire menu is available for takeout so you can complement your stay-at-home Valentine's Day with some contemporary French cuisine. The French Onion Soup is a must-try and the braised pork shank with whole grain mustard sauce is a popular dish!
1447 Grandview Ave., Columbus, OH 43212
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For some delicious Italian dishes near Columbus, order a romantic dinner from Trattoria Roma. This restaurant has been open for over 30 years and offers all of your favorite pasta dishes with a personal touch. All ingredients are locally sourced, and they offer special takeout menus and specials that change monthly, so be sure to check out what they have in store for Valentine's Day. Carryout and delivery can both be ordered on their website.
641 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43215
Online ordering is available this Valentine's Day at The Pearl restaurant. This trendy, romantic establishment has two locations: one in downtown Columbus and one in Dublin, Ohio. The dinner menu has an excellent mix of seafood and modern dishes, and they also have a separate menu for their oyster room. Best of all, you can top off your stay-at-home Valentine's Day with one of their unique cocktail kits for two.
1092 Bethel Rd., Columbus, OH 43220
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Housed in a former church building, The Refectory has become a Valentine's Day tradition for many couples in Central Ohio. While they're open for limited dine-in seating, they also offer a wonderful three-course home dinner menu with French favorites like Boeuf Bourguignon and Roasted Cornish Hen. For dessert, try the Epiphany Cake — an almond frangipane baked in layers of puff pastry. They even offer a wide variety of cocktails to-go! Orders can be placed online, but they do request that you order home dinners at least one day ahead of time.
810 Matson Pl., Cincinnati, OH 45204
While this romantic Cincinnati destination is known for its view, they do have a delicious menu that is available for takeout this Valentine's Day. Primavista offers a fine contemporary menu with dishes from all areas of Italy. They really specialize in veal and fresh fish, and all sauces are made from scratch. If you're celebrating Valentine's Day with friends, Primavista is also offering a family-style menu with dishes that serve 4 to 6 people.
118 E. 6th St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
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For an excellent Valentine's Day dinner, try a takeout order from Sotto in downtown Cincinnati. Their takeout menu features delicious pasta classics such as Tortellini Con Zucca and Rigatoni Con Pomodoro as well as some classic Italian pork and seafood dishes. Not only do they have cocktail specials to go, they also have two bottle wine baskets available for purchase. For dessert, you have to try the famous ricotta donuts with sauce! Carryout can be ordered by phone.
580 Walnut St. #100, Cincinnati, OH 45202
This classic Cincinnati steakhouse is offering curbside carryout and delivery this Valentine's Day. Prime Cincinnati offers some of the best steaks in the area, with the highlight of the menu being the Ohio Reserve Waygu steak. They have a wide variety of seafood options that can be added to your steak to create the perfect surf-and-turf combination. The takeout menu features a create-your-own, three-course meal starting at $50 per person. If a romantic steak dinner sounds like a good Valentine's Day, be sure to try Prime Cincinnati.
Where will you order your takeout this Valentine's Day?

There's never a wrong day to enjoy a great slice of pizza! Just in case you needed an excuse though, you'll be glad to know that National Pizza Day is right around the corner.
We are lucky to have so many dining incredible options in Cincinnati. From high-end restaurants with gourmet pies to mom-and-pop pizza joints with some of the best slices of town — there's something for every taste. Not sure where to start? Here are a few of our favorites.
1211 Main St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
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If you love authentic, NY-style pizza, you're going to love Goodfella's Pizzeria. Their menu features all of the classics, build-your-own pizzas and calzones, and some great specialty pizzas. Feeling adventurous? Try the "Fuhgetaboutit" — a pizza topped with every available topping!
While you're there, make sure you plan to visit their Wiseguy Lounge, a 1920s prohibition-style bar where you'll find craft cocktails, high-end bourbons, rich leather sofas, and knowledgable, well-dress bartenders who are ready and willing to create the perfect craft cocktail to satisfy your cravings.
113 W. McMillan Ave. Cincinnati, OH 45219
Another excellent option for NY-style pizza, Adriatico's offers hand-tossed, extra-think, and deep-dish Sicilian pizzas. The restaurant has been voted "best pizza" according to several publications, including Cincinnati Magazine and City Beat. Build your own pizza or try some of their specialty pies like the Hawaiian, Chicken Bacon Ranch, or the "Inflation Fighter" with mushrooms, onions, peppers, olives, sausage, ham, beef, and pepperoni.
If you enjoy desserts, you're in luck. They also have 12 rotating flavors of gelato, with pints available for carryout and delivery.
3531 Columbia Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45226
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If you haven't tried the incredible Detroit deep-dish gourmet pizzas at TAGLIO yet, you're missing out! With flavors like Prosciutto Artichoke, Greek Veggie, and Pepperoni + Hot Honey, there's so much to love. They also carry all the traditional pizza flavors including Spicy Italian, Bianco, and the "Old Schooler." Don't forget to add some crust dips. With flavors like Garlic + EVOO, Spicy Garlic, and Creamy Gorgonzola, they're well worth the extra dollar.
3166 Linwood Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45208
Ramundo's Pizzeria has been pleasing local customers for over 20 years. They've also been voted "Best Pizza Sauce in the City" by Cincinnati Magazine.
Choose a slice of traditional NY-style pizza or one of their specialty pies. One of their most popular pizzas is the Prosciutto, Lettuce, and Tomato (PLT) pizza. It's made with garlic-infused olive oil, prosciutto, mozzarella, and provolone. After it's baked, it's topped with romaine lettuce, tomato, salt, pepper, and a drizzle of mayo. Don't be scared; it's one of the best pizzas you'll ever eat!
Looking for something more traditional? You can't go wrong with "Uncle Frank's Special," made with homemade Italian sausage, homemade meatballs, and fresh sliced garlic.
7565 Kenwood Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45236
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For a more upscale pizza experience, you'll want to visit Trio Bistro. It's been one of the area's premier dining destinations for over 20 years. Guests love the restaurant's excellent food, attentive staff, and casual charm.
They offer traditional and Margherita flatbreads and pizzas. However, we recommend some of their more exciting options. Other pizza flavors on the menu include Mexican, BBQ, Mediterranean, Thai, and Smoked Salmon!
3301 Madison Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45209
Catch-a-Fire Pizza prides itself on making creative, delicious wood-fired cuisine using fresh ingredients that are locally sourced whenever possible. It's located inside the taproom Madtree Brewing so you can enjoy this incredible pizza alongside some of the best beer the city has to offer. The menu features Classic Italian and Classic American pizzas with a variety of interesting topping combinations. On weekends, you can also enjoy brunch pizzas in flavors like Green Eggs & Ham, Tequila Sunrise, and Hangover Pie.
Looking for an adventure? Head over to their Blue Ash location and book one of their heated igloos. This one of the most exciting dining experiences you'll ever have! The igloos seat up to eight guests and even have Bluetooth speakers so you and your friends can enjoy your favorite tunes while you eat.
3637 Werk Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45248
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A west side tradition for over 20 years, Werkhaus Pizza serves traditional and stuffed pizzas. The latter is made with two light layers of dough stuffed with fresh ingredients and topped with their house sauce.
If you like pizza with a pan-fried crust and plenty of cheese, this family-owned Italian restaurant is soon going to become one of your favorites.
3501 Werk Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45248
Well-known for the generous toppings and incredible crust, Trotta's Pizza is another Cincinnati favorite. They offer traditional, Sicilian, and extra-thin crusts and a huge variety of toppings. Build your own or try some of their amazing specialty pizzas in flavors like Hot Wing, Chili Dip, Taco, BLT, Hawaiian, Steak, Ricotta Cheese, and Salami Roll-Up.
They offer a convenient drive-thru and also carry a wide selection of beers.
3200 Linwood Ave. Suite #2, Cincinnati, OH 45226
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When you get a late-night pizza craving, look no further than Bub's Pizza Bar. They're open until 2 am during the week and 3:30 am on Friday and Saturday nights. Not only is the pizza delicious, but the portions are huge, giving you a great value for the money. Flavorful and filling, it's everything you want after a night out on the town.
Choose a traditional pizza or some of their exciting flavors like Pesto and Goat Cheese, Goetta and Onion, and Extreme Pepperoni. They also offer a Vegan Pizza with a soy-free, dairy-free crust, marinara sauce, vegan cheese, and up to five veggie toppings.
205 W. McMillan St., Cincinnati, OH 45219
Known for their cold beer, hot pizza, and happy customers, Mac's Pizza Pub is the ultimate laid-back pizza joint. Everything here is fresh-made, including the dough that's made in-house daily and the pizza sauce. They also grind their own cheese, slice all of their own vegetables, have their sausage fresh-ground, and use local ingredients whenever they can.
Stick with a traditional pizza or choose some of their fun specialties like the Pesto Primavera, Flying Pig, French Fry Pie, or Nashville Hot.
Which of these great pizza restaurants will steal your heart?