
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?

Itching to explore the diverse Ohio dining scene and take your taste buds on a trip to Mexico? Whether you're in the mood for curbside pickup, contactless delivery, or socially distanced in-person dining, you'll find countless fantastic, authentic Mexican dining options throughout Ohio communities. From tiny, well-known neighborhood taquerias to luxurious dining destinations with built-in bars, you'll find something for every taste at Ohio's many Mexican restaurants. Get ready to satisfy your craving for authentic Mexican food with our guide to 9 Mexican restaurants located in Ohio communities.
1779 E Market St., Akron, OH 44305
Known for its upbeat atmosphere, friendly staff, delicious drinks, and extensive menu of authentic, flavorful food, Azteca Mexican Restaurant is your destination for Mexican dining in Akron. Azteca Mexican Restaurant strives to create an inviting, family-focused atmosphere, whether you're dining in, enjoying a meal on the outdoor patio, or simply stopping by to pick up a takeout order. If you're searching for a restaurant that offers diverse vegetarian options, this is the perfect place to visit. Online ordering is available anytime, so all you have to do is stop by and pick up your meal.
12501 Lorain Ave., Cleveland, OH 44111
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Our journey around Northeast Ohio wouldn't be complete without a trip to the excellent Tapatias Taqueria located in Cleveland. Originally known for its legendary street tacos, this restaurant has grown into one of the city's best all-around Mexican restaurants. It's a casual dining destination with all of your favorite Mexican meals on the menu, along with a full bar serving the best Mexican beer and spirits. Everything on the menu is made from scratch, with fresh ingredients and authentic flavors. You can place your order online with the full lunch/dinner menu available for delivery throughout the Cleveland area, or stop by this neighborhood favorite to pick up your food at the curb.
3212 Tuscarawas St. W, Canton, OH 44708
When you're searching for a family-style Mexican meal in Canton, be sure to make a trip to El Rincon Mexican Restaurant. During these unique times, El Rincon is offering drive-thru pickup, so you can grab your favorite Mexican dishes without ever leaving the comfort of your vehicle. There are extensive specials available for both lunch and dinner, with steak, seafood, chicken, and vegetarian dishes available. Be sure to check out the website for some great coupons and deals before you order.
5221 Godown Rd., Columbus, OH 43235
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You'll have no shortage of outstanding options for Mexican food in Columbus, including the popular Los Gauchos Taqueria. While everything on the menu is excellent, Los Gauchos Taqueria is especially well-known for its famous Tacos al Pastor. These delicious tacos feature marinated pork, pineapple, fresh cilantro, diced onions, and other fresh ingredients to create a unique flavor profile. The original restaurant was so popular that there are now four locations in the city, so you can always find a convenient place to enjoy your Mexican favorites.
2700 Northland Plaza Dr., Columbus, OH 43231
A colorful, inviting restaurant with a reputation for serving excellent, contemporary Mexican meals, Fiesta Jalisco stands out among a great selection of Mexican restaurants in Columbus. The menu here is focused on the unique combination of Spanish and Indian flavors that have influenced Mexican cooking for centuries, with fresh ingredients that bring out the best in every meal. Whether you're in the mood for a quick bite or a full, satisfying meal, you're sure to find what you seek when you order from Fiesta Jalisco.
4775 E. Main St., Columbus, OH 43213
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Known for its enchiladas, shrimp quesadillas, nachos supreme, and much more, Mi Mexico Restaurant is a classic Columbus dining destination with a reputation for excellence. Everything is made fresh to order, and there are always new daily specials when you're in the mood for something different from the regular menu. There's also a unique rewards program, perfect for regular customers who want to earn a delicious, free meal. Place your order online for quick, convenient service, then pick it up at the curb or enjoy fast delivery throughout the Columbus area.
Incline District, 3108 Price Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45205
Family owned and operated with a convenient location in the middle of Cincinnati's Incline District, Veracruz Mexican Grill has long been a local favorite. Looking for a local Mexican restaurant with an extensive menu of vegetarian options? Then Veracruz Mexican Grill is sure to satisfy your craving. Of course, there are plenty of other great options on the menu as well, with all of the meat on the menu marinated in house. Place your order online for takeout/delivery during lunch and dinner hours every day.
611 Main St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
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Living in Cincinnati means you're never far from your next great meal, and Mazunte Centro is a perfect place to start when you're in the mood for Mexican food. The menu here is as simple as it is delicious, with tacos, tostadas, tortas, tlayudas, soups, and a tempting selection of sides. There are multiple delivery options so you can use your favorite delivery service, along with convenient carryout options so you can skip the line.
316 Ludlow Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45220
With soups, salads, steak, burritos, appetizers, and so much more, Los Potrillos Mexican Restaurant brings the flavors of Mexico to the heart of Cincinnati. There are unique daily specials available every day of the week, including drink specials on some of your favorite Mexican drinks from the bar. Simply place your order online, schedule your delivery at your convenience, and get ready to enjoy an authentic Mexican meal from the comfort of home.
Which small business will you order from?

What's our number one New Year's Resolution? Getting organized! 2020 was quite a chaotic year, and we'll admit that we let our orderly habits fall to the wayside. If your home, office, or life could use a little organizing, too, you should definitely look for a helping hand from these Cleveland small businesses specializing in professional organization.
2272 Woodmere Dr., Cleveland, OH 44106
Making life simple shouldn't be difficult, which is why Organizing 4 U makes home and business organization effortless. Their team works with you to accomplish your organizational goals three times faster than attempting to complete them on your own. Organizing 4 U has been featured in newspapers and magazines, as well as radio programs and TV shows around the nation. They'll help with overwhelming home projects like room optimizations, managing paper flow, and storing your photos and memorabilia. Moving soon? Let them help you find a "home" for everything in your new space.
5400 State Rd., Cleveland, OH 44134
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Raise your hand if your method of "organizing" involves stowing away your clutter in the closet. Don't worry, you're not alone. NEO Custom Closets doesn't want you to find a new storage space; on the contrary, they want to redesign your closet for maximum streamlined storage. They offer a free in-home design consultation to help you determine which type of closet storage solution will match not only your lifestyle needs, but your individual taste as well. A customized closet is also an investment, as it may even increase your home's value if you choose to sell.
Simplify your everyday living with a helping hand from FAB Simple Spaces. This Akron home organization company simplifies, organizes, and restores order to your home, one space at a time. One reason we think FAB is absolutely fabulous is that they take care of some of the most chaotic rooms in the house: kids' spaces. Playrooms, bedrooms, closets, and craft rooms for growing children, tweens, and teens will all be decluttered and organized so they can have fun without you having a mess on your hands.
3626 Berkeley Rd., Cleveland Heights, OH 44118
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Getting organized is one thing; staying organized is a different beast altogether — especially when others in your home may make it seem impossible. Master My Space knows all too well that your home deserves an effective yet unique organizational method that works for your whole family. They take an individualized approach to organizing, which takes into account your family's specific needs. When they've finished mastering your space, you'll have more time for what matters most: enjoying a calm, stress-free space with the ones you love.
6 Lakeview Ct., Norwalk, OH 44857
Sort. Edit. Contain. Label. Sound easy? That's the joy of working with Lakeview Professional Organizing. Bathrooms, bedrooms, basements, and more; no space is off-limits. Lakeview Professional Organizing will declutter your space and destress your mind, leaving you with a home or office that you can be proud of. Are you someone who likes to complete these projects on your own? They offer a DIY Organize365 100-day home organization program that is effective yet affordable. You'll receive virtual help from professionals, printable labels for your space, a planner, and other exclusive perks that help you live a more organized lifestyle.
701 Patriots Way, Medina, OH 44256
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It's never too late to redesign your home, especially with a little assistance from Organization With Style. With so many families working and learning from home, now more than ever it's important to have a functional space where everyone can live without clutter. Bring peace and harmony into your space with their affordable organization packages. From the 12-hour Calm package to the 48-hour Bliss package, Organization With Style can tackle everything from kitchens and pantries to bedrooms and closets.
40 W. 4th St. #8, Mansfield, OH 44902
Everything has its place, but when you've got places to be, it can be difficult finding the time or energy to get and stay organized. In Its Place Organization doesn't just straighten up your home, they make sure you're comfortable with the entire process and results. Trade the moaning and groaning for smooth moving and great results. No subcontractors or substitutes; just one professional organizer dedicated to helping you achieve your goals.
1700 W. Market St. #124, Akron, OH 44313
Working from home? Being a small business owner working remotely can be a tough task. Sartori Solutions specializes in business development, including professional organization services for small businesses. The best part is you won't need to leave your home; you can schedule virtual consultations to bring their expertise to your home on your schedule.
What some of your favorite tips and tricks for keeping your home and life organized?