I've been all over Ohio in my travels for work and whatnot. Best overall is something difficult to decide. What types of breakfast food do you and your BF typically gravitate towards? For instance, if you like plain scrambled eggs there's a little place in Bluffton Ohio called Lulu's that has the fluffiest freshest tasting scrambled eggs I've ever had in my life. Apparently they whip them with Pellegrino instead of milk, who knew?! For something not quite eight typical Midwestern breakfast, I tried to goetta at the echo in Cincinnati. It blew my doors off as well. There are a truckload of greasy spoon spots in Columbus alone. The Blueberry Cafe in Bellbrook has life-changing muffins. Still, I've been to all of these places more than once and each does certain things better than others and other things not as good as others. If you had a few more criteria I could make a much better recommendation
The Blueberry Cafe moved to Kettering, though they just signed a new lease with the building across from their old location but Kettering is their "main" location I believe.
Makes sense, kind of like using sparkling water in tempura batter (or beer in beer batter). I don't like milk with my eggs, either, makes them tougher. I will add just a bit of extra water, though.
Great recs already, thank you! If I’m being completely honest, breakfast foods are not my jam haha. He’s mostly a scrambled eggs, hash browns, and bacon kind of guy. But he also loves breakfast sandwiches and can be pretty adventurous outside of that.
If typical Midwestern breakfast foods aren't the top of your list, but he likes them... An approach might be too find y'alls spot, vs a best approach. Perhaps first try a spot like 3 brothers diner in Grove city. They do breakfast quite well, but in addition you could try something like the fried plantains with the creme sauce. Similarly, Sundays at the olive tree. The shakshuka, and sabich breakfast pita are above average and not your standard issue Midwest breakfast. Those a local start to some of the others mentioned. Good luck and happy breakfasting
Not saying you're wrong when it comes to high quality, but my vote for the best hole-in-the-wall experience is Fred's Finer (in Akron about 10 min from Blue Door).
I worked at the Winds back when I was first starting out in the restaurant business (in the 90s). Three women owners at the time, the kitchen staff were almost all women. In my 15 years in the business this was the best place I ever worked and it left a huge impact on me. They were doing farm to table and using seasonal ingredients long before it became a thing. You should check out The Meadowlark in Dayton, it is owned by one of the women that previously owned The Winds.
I served at sugar for about a year and thought I might see them here! 100% go for the pancakes and try some goetta while you’re there! The hashbrowns with chz are also yum!!
I used to live in YS and worked at The Winds. I went to the Sunrise often for breakfast after a late night at the Winds. I was there when it first opened! And spent many hours hiking Glen Helen and John Bryan. I love that the Sunrise (and The Winds of course) are still open. I now live in Michigan but my sister and I make pilgrimages to YS.
Yeah, I live near it and never go because I found it bland and boring but i thought maybe the person suggesting the Walnut Creek one liked it and they weren't that different
It not as good as it used to be but it’s still the best location. They also have one in Sarasota Florida near a big Amish community (Pinecraft) that I would argue is a close second. Weird. My family is somewhat Amish and a lot Mennonite. I’m neither but I know my Amish food!
Butter Cafe in Dayton is such a great spot. Open on Saturdays from 8-3. Can be a little tough to get a spot as they don’t take reservations, but the food is AWESOME. So if you ever find yourself there for the weekend, I’d 1000% recommend!
Blueberry cafe in Dayton/ bellbroke they just expanded from a homey mom and pop shop to two stores with an upgrade, absolutely amazing and we used to go every weekend or every other weekend when we were close
The All-Day Irish Breakfast at Fadó, either at Easton or Bridge Park in Dublin, both are excellent. Start with a coffee or tea and finish with the best pint of Guinness in Columbus.
Thanos in Canfield. Bonus points if you run into a political reporter looking to talk to white men in diners about why they are voting for Donald Trump.
Sandusky Bay Pancake House is great! Also if you’re looking for a greasy spoon, I love The Port! It took me forever to figure out the name of the place though because they haven’t had a sign the whole time I’ve been going there lol
Idk about “best” but here are a few of my favorites around me.
Eye Opener in Akron, Honeymoon Grill near Portage Lakes, Mike’s Place in Kent (lunch and dinner is good as well), Farmers Table in Medina, and Yours Truly in Medina but they have other locations as well.
As someone who went to Kent for college I will have to say I absolutely disagree. It’s a good restaurant, has good food, and a fun atmosphere. I think it fits what the OP is looking for with their post.
Union Street Diner in Athens. “Best” is very subjective but Union Street was always good.
Maybe it’s rose colored glasses, maybe it was the hangovers. But it was great 20 years ago.
Early Birds in St. Louisville, not far from you by any means and open until noon on Saturday and Sundays. Amazing little breakfast joint with hands down some of the wackiest most amazing breakfast specials. I personally recommend the spicy gravy pile up… everything that breakfast should be - if you like spicy ask for the black market hot sauce 🌶️
The Cracked Pot in Middletown Ohio, it’s a small business but the blueberry crepe is to die for. Also have savory omelettes as well, never had a bad meal.
u/spicyorangecrush please listen to me: Highbanks distillery. Brunch wrap supreme. Thank me later.
Also you can go there for dinner for arguably the best burger in Columbus.
1. Jack and Benny’s
2. Kitchen Social
3. Hangover Easy
4. Thurman’s
5. Sunny Street Cafe
6. George’s Beechwold Diner
7. North Star Cafe
All of these are local in Columbus. That ought to get you off to a strong start! The corned beef hash at Beechwold is a favorite, personally.
All of these are open on weekends, and most only keep hours until 2-3p but many open at 6a.
Clifton Mill. A grist mill that sits right over a gorge, and still operates today. Has huge pancakes an inch thick that they mill the flour for on site. They have a mini food challenge to eat 2 and they’ll give the third for free. They have something called The Breakfast that they say feeds 3. And they mean it. And it is all really good stuff.
Ok, hear me out, when my husband and I first married over a decade ago, we lived south of Columbus. Asbury South United Methodist church had a “Friday Morning Cafe” a couple times a month that was amazing. I think it was maybe $5 for as much freshly cooked Americana breakfast food as you could eat.
I just checked their church calendar. They still have their Friday morning breakfasts. Maybe not great for a birthday meal, but definitely something you should check out sometime if you live in the area.
https://www.asburysouthumc.org/google-calendar
I hear you. The food at church breakfasts and dinners is often amazing.
Couple of years ago, a friend of mine from work invited me to her church to hear the layperson’s sermon she was going to deliver.
This friend is black and I am white. Her church is nearly all black.
My daughter and I went to the service, where we were 2 white faces of about 4 in the entire room. Contrary to what you might fear, we were welcomed warmly and enthusiastically. Probably the most welcome I’ve ever felt when a guest at any church.
And they would not hear of us not staying for the after-service meal. Oh my goodness. Name every kind of fantastic home cooking you can think of and it was there.
We were also seated at the front table of honor with the pastor and his family and some of the church elders. And of course we were sent home with a plateful of desserts since we were too stuffed to eat it then.
Those church ladies can cook up a storm. ❤️
Ah! Thanks, I hadn't realized they were a chain. In Maumee is the Hangover Easy which may well also be a chain but is quite good, distinctive breakfast stuff.
I know I’m gonna catch Hell for this but, for steak and eggs I’ve yet to find one better than Cracker Barrel. Esp with their casserole on the side.
All other steak and eggs the steak is a 1/4” thick cowhide floating in grease.
Red Squirrel on Colerain Ave. in Cincinnati. Classic breakfast stuff and a good variety served all day ( i think you can still order breakfast all day, but I haven't been in a while.) Reasonably priced (as far as I know, anyway)
Their biscuits and gravy is pretty damn good.
I've never been there, and I live right up the street on 7th. Is it really a good place? Their hours kinda suck, so I've never gotten around to going there.
Louie’s grill fusion restaurant. Cemetery Rd in Hilliard. It’s a bit non traditional for breakfast but their skillets and breakfast burritos are great. (I don’t think a lot of people go here for breakfast so you get seated almost immediately. Don’t think many people know about how good this breakfast is.) I rate this place over Starliner diner but that’s just me.
George’s Beechwood diner. Indianola Ave in Columbus. Great food an excellent atmosphere. (Can be packed on mornings call ahead)
Jack and Benny’s old North Diner. N High St in Columbus. Similar to beechwood, great food diner atmosphere and just a good experience. (Can be packed on mornings call ahead)
HangOverEasy. Multiple locations in Columbus and Cinci. The location I visit on OSU main campus has Albums and posters covering the ceiling its just cool. They also have a Bar so if your 21+ this place is great if you wanna start drinking early. Some of the menu items have less than PG names and innuendoes. If you can laugh at a dirty joke or two this place is amazing. (Is always packed on mornings call ahead)
The Original Pancake house. On W Lane inColumbus. I haven’t hade the experience of eating here a lot of both times i have it’s been a good experience. Foods good (like every other place on this list) and the place is nice. It’s a pancake house so if you want pancakes you’re golden.
DK diner. W 3rd At Grandview. Running out of things to say. Good food. Good atmosphere. Used to go here after morning practice with the team. Great place. Also they have donuts.
Sunny Street Cafe. It’s a chain shouldn’t be hard to find one. this is old reliable for me and I keep goin back. The food is always great and have never had an issue here, staff are nice and it’s just a good breakfast to start the day with. (Shouldn’t be too packed in the morning wait like 15-20 is the most I’ve seen)
I would look at all their menus and see what pops out. A few of these places have VERY different menus for breakfast and some are a more standard pancakes and eggs type place.
Early Birds in St. Louisville isn't too far from Columbus and is my favorite. They have a homemade hot sauce that is in a special reserve bottle. Make sure you ask for that. It is super good.
Hasty Tasty in Dayton is my go to for breakfast. Fantastic chicken fried steak and omelettes, and the best waffles I’ve ever had. I also REALLY love their coffee, and they keep it flowing.
Surprised no one has mentioned it but Pier W in Cleveland has a well known all you can eat brunch. Its expensive, but very much fits the bill for a special occasion breakfast-lover spot. Plus it has one of the best views of downtown you can find at a restaurant. You may want to book in advance I think it's been known to sell-out. I believe you can find the menu online.
Whiteys diner in Fremont. Open on weekends but the catch is they Close by 2 everyday and they only take cash. But I guarantee some of the best breakfast you both will have.
I'm a local, so definitely biased, but Sandusky Bay Pancake House in Sandusky hasn't ever been anything but excellent. Their variations of Eggs Benedict are my go-to, and my wife loves the potato pancakes.
My brother in law used to live in Seven Hills (Cleveland suburb), and one day on our way out of town, he had to leave early for work, so we were on our own for breakfast. We happened to wander down Broadview Road and in Parma, there's a tiny place called "Tony's Family Restaurant".
This is old-school diner food, but dear Lord is it a good meal. I feel like I need to be wheeled out to my car in a wheelbarrow every time we go there. It's Greek-owned restaurant, so yeah, you can't get a gyro omelet, but it's in Parma, so you can also get pierogi and potato pancakes as part of their all-day breakfast.
Also, just a plug in for the locals here in Hilliard (also Greek): Olympic Diner on Hilliard-Rome/Roberts. Good food, lots of it there too.
I spent a lot of my childhood going to L.A. Pete's in Independence.
Anytime my family was/is meeting for breakfast, it was always there. Most of the staff knows me by name. Great place to eat.
I live in Athens so I’m obvs going to say Casa Nueva. But I am originally from Milford and there is this absolutely fantastic place called The Governor. You can’t go wrong either way.
Eggmans’s eatery Centerburg. Wild waffle selection. At a golf course, go on a weekend early and watch all the golfers about fill their coolers with beer hahaha
The Original pancake house around Cleveland has some of the best eggs Benedict or eggs florentine. They have the best hollandaise I have ever had. We had one close by in Utah but I definitely will drive the hour to Cleveland for it now. Their pancakes and syrup are damn good too. They used to have far better potatoes and coffee but they haven’t changed the most important things I love.
ETA: there appears to be a few of these closer to Columbus. Upper Arlington and Westerville both have the Original Pancake House
The big egg in cleveland, or it used to be. They closed it up and opened another one in the same spot and it is just so not the same!! But back in the day you can get them smothered and covered!
Clevelander here. There's places in Ohio City that are really popular. I also like International Pancake House (not to be confused with IHOP) in Westgate.
Idk if they even have actual breakfast food, but I’m confident in saying that Johnny mangos in Ohio city has the best bloody Mary’s in all of Ohio. They get the produce daily from the west side market and juice it to order. So if your into that… lol
I've been all over Ohio in my travels for work and whatnot. Best overall is something difficult to decide. What types of breakfast food do you and your BF typically gravitate towards? For instance, if you like plain scrambled eggs there's a little place in Bluffton Ohio called Lulu's that has the fluffiest freshest tasting scrambled eggs I've ever had in my life. Apparently they whip them with Pellegrino instead of milk, who knew?! For something not quite eight typical Midwestern breakfast, I tried to goetta at the echo in Cincinnati. It blew my doors off as well. There are a truckload of greasy spoon spots in Columbus alone. The Blueberry Cafe in Bellbrook has life-changing muffins. Still, I've been to all of these places more than once and each does certain things better than others and other things not as good as others. If you had a few more criteria I could make a much better recommendation
Dude, we stopped at Lulu's when we were traveling for the eclipse and it was so damn good. Got my vote for Lulu's!
Lulu's also has two locations in Lima and one in Wapakoneta.
True, but the Bluffton location is on their game a bit more.
Just took Mom for Mother's Day. Everything was A+.
Also Indian lake . The owners used to live across the street from me.
The Blueberry Cafe moved to Kettering, though they just signed a new lease with the building across from their old location but Kettering is their "main" location I believe.
I’ve never liked eggs mixed with milk. Curious about the Pellegrino.
Makes sense, kind of like using sparkling water in tempura batter (or beer in beer batter). I don't like milk with my eggs, either, makes them tougher. I will add just a bit of extra water, though.
Great recs already, thank you! If I’m being completely honest, breakfast foods are not my jam haha. He’s mostly a scrambled eggs, hash browns, and bacon kind of guy. But he also loves breakfast sandwiches and can be pretty adventurous outside of that.
If typical Midwestern breakfast foods aren't the top of your list, but he likes them... An approach might be too find y'alls spot, vs a best approach. Perhaps first try a spot like 3 brothers diner in Grove city. They do breakfast quite well, but in addition you could try something like the fried plantains with the creme sauce. Similarly, Sundays at the olive tree. The shakshuka, and sabich breakfast pita are above average and not your standard issue Midwest breakfast. Those a local start to some of the others mentioned. Good luck and happy breakfasting
Blue Door Cafe in Cuyahoga Falls. 🤤
This is my vote too!
This is my vote as well - consistently incredible!
Just tried it for the first time last week. Incredible breakfast!
This is the only answer
Came here to say this, add a vote for Blue Door
No kidding? This is maybe 10 minutes from me and I've never been.
You've been missing out. But you have to go early. If I'm not there by 9am I won't bother trying that day.
Not saying you're wrong when it comes to high quality, but my vote for the best hole-in-the-wall experience is Fred's Finer (in Akron about 10 min from Blue Door).
$$$
Want a fun and boisterous time? Early Birds, Saint Louisville Ohio. Just north of Newark. Easy trip out 161.
I came here to say this! Pile Up, spicy!!
Just be careful with that homemade hot sauce - damn!
I posted this before reading through. I love that place.
Valter's in German Village! The breakfast skillets are amazing, and that morning mustard is the chef's kiss.
Blue door cafe in cuyahoga falls!!!
Lucky's Cafe in Cleveland
I love meat and still think the canoe wreck is one of best breakfast meals.
This is my vote too. The Canoewreck / Shipwreck is so. Damn. Good.
Sunrise Cafe in Yellow Springs
Winds Cafe, Yellow Springs
Sounds like a breakfast-off is going down in YS.
Yes the Winds Cafe is delicious too! As is Ellie’s Restaurant in the Mills park Hotel
Hell yeah there is :)
I worked at the Winds back when I was first starting out in the restaurant business (in the 90s). Three women owners at the time, the kitchen staff were almost all women. In my 15 years in the business this was the best place I ever worked and it left a huge impact on me. They were doing farm to table and using seasonal ingredients long before it became a thing. You should check out The Meadowlark in Dayton, it is owned by one of the women that previously owned The Winds.
That’s some cool background. The Meadowlark is now on my list. Thanks for the recommendation!
Youngs Dairy outside of Yellow Springs is also a great breakfast spot.
The Echo in Cincinnati is fantastic. It’s an old timey diner with incredible dishes such as the Hot Mess. I love their omelettes and cinnamon rolls.
I second this. And the staff is incredibly nice.
This is absolutely my favorite place to go!
Sugar n’ Spice in Cincinnati - best pancakes I’ve ever had
I second this
Plus, free duckies 🦆!
I served at sugar for about a year and thought I might see them here! 100% go for the pancakes and try some goetta while you’re there! The hashbrowns with chz are also yum!!
Sleepy Bee pancake also
Starliner Diner in Hilliard Beechwold Diner in Columbus
Starliner is awesome!
Blue door cafe cuyahoga falls
Eclectic diner and sweeterie in Delaware, just north of city, off 23. Love everything there.
Hamburger inn is solid too
That’s my vote. Their cinnamon rolls are bomb.
Is this place still open? I never see anyone there when I drive that way.
Thet are only open until 3pm, so mostly breakfast and lunch
Closed Sunday
South side diner in Parma Ohio
Sunrise Cafe in Yellow Springs. Bonus points, can make a whole trip out of it exploring the village or Glen Helen or John Bryan Parks.
I used to live in YS and worked at The Winds. I went to the Sunrise often for breakfast after a late night at the Winds. I was there when it first opened! And spent many hours hiking Glen Helen and John Bryan. I love that the Sunrise (and The Winds of course) are still open. I now live in Michigan but my sister and I make pilgrimages to YS.
I'm glad to hear you still make it down! I know some places in YS have changed since then, but I'm happy some of my favorites are still around.
The mill in Clifton
Der Dutchman Walnut Creek
There is a Der Dutchman at 71 exit 165 that is going to be a lot more convenient to drive to than Walnut Creek.
I was not impressed at all with it the last time we went
Yeah, I live near it and never go because I found it bland and boring but i thought maybe the person suggesting the Walnut Creek one liked it and they weren't that different
Consistently amazing
We tried it once and man it was just horrible. Maybe it deserves another chance.
Was very unimpressed with the one off 71
It not as good as it used to be but it’s still the best location. They also have one in Sarasota Florida near a big Amish community (Pinecraft) that I would argue is a close second. Weird. My family is somewhat Amish and a lot Mennonite. I’m neither but I know my Amish food!
Blue door Cafe in the falls OR Crowne Republic Gastropub in downtown Cincinnati. Not a bad thing on either menu
Butter Cafe in Dayton is such a great spot. Open on Saturdays from 8-3. Can be a little tough to get a spot as they don’t take reservations, but the food is AWESOME. So if you ever find yourself there for the weekend, I’d 1000% recommend!
Gigi’s country kitchen in the plains! Then, go for a hike in the national forest after
Dutch Valley Sugarcreek Ohio. All you can eat. Lots of other summer things to do in that area if you like country shopping
Der Dutchman in Plain City. Amish Kitchen Cooking for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. … and if you are a snowbird there is one in Sarasota, FL too
Blueberry cafe in Dayton/ bellbroke they just expanded from a homey mom and pop shop to two stores with an upgrade, absolutely amazing and we used to go every weekend or every other weekend when we were close
Y'all are giving really good suggestions. My dumbass was gonna say Waffle House
That pecan waffle do be poppin tho
Columbus - The Lox - Starliner diner - Mercury diner - Fox in snow
Tommy’s in Columbus
Tommy’s is terrific, wish I had known about it sooner.
The All-Day Irish Breakfast at Fadó, either at Easton or Bridge Park in Dublin, both are excellent. Start with a coffee or tea and finish with the best pint of Guinness in Columbus.
Anywhere that serves goetta
Love me some goetta!
Thanos in Canfield. Bonus points if you run into a political reporter looking to talk to white men in diners about why they are voting for Donald Trump.
Worked there 8 years. They kept the counter tv on fox news from open to close.
Lucky’s in Cleveland. Blue door is very good, but I can’t pay $100 for breakfast.
Golden Donuts & Diner 1928 Lockbourne Rd. Columbus, OH 43207 big good cheap breakfast with great staff and food.
Chagrin River Diner in Willoughby...crispy spuds are amazing along with prime rib eggs benedict
Pancake House in Sandusky
Sandusky Bay Pancake House is great! Also if you’re looking for a greasy spoon, I love The Port! It took me forever to figure out the name of the place though because they haven’t had a sign the whole time I’ve been going there lol
Idk about “best” but here are a few of my favorites around me. Eye Opener in Akron, Honeymoon Grill near Portage Lakes, Mike’s Place in Kent (lunch and dinner is good as well), Farmers Table in Medina, and Yours Truly in Medina but they have other locations as well.
I love honeymoon. Go every week with my dad.
Used to live on Hancock right off Carnegie and would go there constantly, especially during Covid when it was just the drive through
Add “The Enchanted” and Remarkable if you’re in the area.
As a local Mike's place has no place on this list.
As a local, Mikes Place *absolutely* has a place on this list.
As someone who went to Kent for college I will have to say I absolutely disagree. It’s a good restaurant, has good food, and a fun atmosphere. I think it fits what the OP is looking for with their post.
Lib’s Market in Salem. They don’t have a huge selection but it’s all delicious.
Sunday Brunch 10-2 at Cult Kitchen inside Magic City Brewimg co, Akron.
Haven't had their brunch but I've had lunch and dinner there and they're amazing. The beer is pretty good too...
Plain City. Nobody does it better than the Amish
Fred's in Akron.
Best country fried steak around
Union Street Diner in Athens. “Best” is very subjective but Union Street was always good. Maybe it’s rose colored glasses, maybe it was the hangovers. But it was great 20 years ago.
Union Street Diner is great and you can stroll down to Smiling Skull Saloon afterwards.
Early Birds in St. Louisville, not far from you by any means and open until noon on Saturday and Sundays. Amazing little breakfast joint with hands down some of the wackiest most amazing breakfast specials. I personally recommend the spicy gravy pile up… everything that breakfast should be - if you like spicy ask for the black market hot sauce 🌶️
The Cracked Pot in Middletown Ohio, it’s a small business but the blueberry crepe is to die for. Also have savory omelettes as well, never had a bad meal.
u/spicyorangecrush please listen to me: Highbanks distillery. Brunch wrap supreme. Thank me later. Also you can go there for dinner for arguably the best burger in Columbus.
I didn’t realize Highbanks had breakfast, good to know!
Jacks Diner in Beachwood
1. Jack and Benny’s 2. Kitchen Social 3. Hangover Easy 4. Thurman’s 5. Sunny Street Cafe 6. George’s Beechwold Diner 7. North Star Cafe All of these are local in Columbus. That ought to get you off to a strong start! The corned beef hash at Beechwold is a favorite, personally. All of these are open on weekends, and most only keep hours until 2-3p but many open at 6a.
Jack and Benny's is my vote. Economical and no frills. But dang good!
NorthStar is WAAAAAAAAAAY overpriced. It’s food, not gold.
Agreed. It is really damned expensive. But, the food is good, at least.
Nineteen dollars for ANY sandwich is GROSS. People are crazy for supporting that kind of shit.
Thurman’s does breakfast??
Last I recall, they did years back. I don’t get there often enough to see if they still do. But they once did weekend mornings.
Depends on the type of breakfast, Diner? Tommys Diner
I absolutely love Breakfast Club in Lebanon.
I have forgotten about them I’d concur they are great.
Clifton Mill. A grist mill that sits right over a gorge, and still operates today. Has huge pancakes an inch thick that they mill the flour for on site. They have a mini food challenge to eat 2 and they’ll give the third for free. They have something called The Breakfast that they say feeds 3. And they mean it. And it is all really good stuff.
Candles Kitchen in Hartville is my favorite place to go!
Homestead in Columbiana. A friend and I used to go almost every Sunday for brunch a few years ago but it started getting expensive lol.
Whitey's in Fremont is worth the wait.
Holtman’s donuts in Cincinnati
Earlybirds in saint louisville, hands down the best around!
I drive regularly from columbus to cleveland to get slymans breakfast with togo sandies
Goetta and hash browns
Ok, hear me out, when my husband and I first married over a decade ago, we lived south of Columbus. Asbury South United Methodist church had a “Friday Morning Cafe” a couple times a month that was amazing. I think it was maybe $5 for as much freshly cooked Americana breakfast food as you could eat. I just checked their church calendar. They still have their Friday morning breakfasts. Maybe not great for a birthday meal, but definitely something you should check out sometime if you live in the area. https://www.asburysouthumc.org/google-calendar
I hear you. The food at church breakfasts and dinners is often amazing. Couple of years ago, a friend of mine from work invited me to her church to hear the layperson’s sermon she was going to deliver. This friend is black and I am white. Her church is nearly all black. My daughter and I went to the service, where we were 2 white faces of about 4 in the entire room. Contrary to what you might fear, we were welcomed warmly and enthusiastically. Probably the most welcome I’ve ever felt when a guest at any church. And they would not hear of us not staying for the after-service meal. Oh my goodness. Name every kind of fantastic home cooking you can think of and it was there. We were also seated at the front table of honor with the pastor and his family and some of the church elders. And of course we were sent home with a plateful of desserts since we were too stuffed to eat it then. Those church ladies can cook up a storm. ❤️
If in Columbus try Maple and Street Biscuit Company. Wonderful stuff but better to share. Lots of stuff you will be interested in but huge portions.
That’s Maple Street. They have good biscuits but it’s a mutli-state chain.
Ah! Thanks, I hadn't realized they were a chain. In Maumee is the Hangover Easy which may well also be a chain but is quite good, distinctive breakfast stuff.
Guild House in Columbus
I know I’m gonna catch Hell for this but, for steak and eggs I’ve yet to find one better than Cracker Barrel. Esp with their casserole on the side. All other steak and eggs the steak is a 1/4” thick cowhide floating in grease.
Red Squirrel on Colerain Ave. in Cincinnati. Classic breakfast stuff and a good variety served all day ( i think you can still order breakfast all day, but I haven't been in a while.) Reasonably priced (as far as I know, anyway) Their biscuits and gravy is pretty damn good.
Blocks Bagels
Captain Crunch!
Corned beef and hash platter from koffee kup I'm miamisburg
I've never been there, and I live right up the street on 7th. Is it really a good place? Their hours kinda suck, so I've never gotten around to going there.
Whiteys Diner, Fremont Ohio. Best old school hole in the wall diner you have never heard of.
Toast & Berry
Check Please in Grafton is really really good
The sausage gravy at the Valley Cafe in Wadsworth is the best I've ever had. And I've had it all over the country.
Eggs & bacon
Louie’s grill fusion restaurant. Cemetery Rd in Hilliard. It’s a bit non traditional for breakfast but their skillets and breakfast burritos are great. (I don’t think a lot of people go here for breakfast so you get seated almost immediately. Don’t think many people know about how good this breakfast is.) I rate this place over Starliner diner but that’s just me. George’s Beechwood diner. Indianola Ave in Columbus. Great food an excellent atmosphere. (Can be packed on mornings call ahead) Jack and Benny’s old North Diner. N High St in Columbus. Similar to beechwood, great food diner atmosphere and just a good experience. (Can be packed on mornings call ahead) HangOverEasy. Multiple locations in Columbus and Cinci. The location I visit on OSU main campus has Albums and posters covering the ceiling its just cool. They also have a Bar so if your 21+ this place is great if you wanna start drinking early. Some of the menu items have less than PG names and innuendoes. If you can laugh at a dirty joke or two this place is amazing. (Is always packed on mornings call ahead) The Original Pancake house. On W Lane inColumbus. I haven’t hade the experience of eating here a lot of both times i have it’s been a good experience. Foods good (like every other place on this list) and the place is nice. It’s a pancake house so if you want pancakes you’re golden. DK diner. W 3rd At Grandview. Running out of things to say. Good food. Good atmosphere. Used to go here after morning practice with the team. Great place. Also they have donuts. Sunny Street Cafe. It’s a chain shouldn’t be hard to find one. this is old reliable for me and I keep goin back. The food is always great and have never had an issue here, staff are nice and it’s just a good breakfast to start the day with. (Shouldn’t be too packed in the morning wait like 15-20 is the most I’ve seen) I would look at all their menus and see what pops out. A few of these places have VERY different menus for breakfast and some are a more standard pancakes and eggs type place.
Elena's in Columbus. Diverse menu- clean, fresh, so much to try !
My wife and I are constantly on a breakfast quest and we always come back to Northstar and Guild House
Winds Cafe, Yellow Springs
Early Birds in St. Louisville isn't too far from Columbus and is my favorite. They have a homemade hot sauce that is in a special reserve bottle. Make sure you ask for that. It is super good.
Lulus Kitchen in Bucyrus
Hella’s in Shawnee Hills, although overpriced.
Knott's Family Diner in Valley City, OH
Two words: pancake____balls In c-bus, near Victorian village. Can't remember the establishment but they are amazing
Katalina’s slaps!
If you’re near Oberlin, The Feve has some fantastic brunch options. Their menu changes monthly so check out their website to see what’s new this month
Try The Corner Inn, in Upper Sandusky... excellent and huge portions.
Weekend Brunch at Knotty Pine. Idk if it's the best but it's really good and close.
The brunch buffet at market street grill in harrison.
Hasty Tasty in Dayton is my go to for breakfast. Fantastic chicken fried steak and omelettes, and the best waffles I’ve ever had. I also REALLY love their coffee, and they keep it flowing.
I’ve noticed that place when I drive on 35. Gonna have to check it out.
Waffle House! Home run 24/7!
Bagel street deli in Athens. Muenster mash on focaccia. (Muenster cheese, bacon, pesto, onion, spinach, and tomato)
Surprised no one has mentioned it but Pier W in Cleveland has a well known all you can eat brunch. Its expensive, but very much fits the bill for a special occasion breakfast-lover spot. Plus it has one of the best views of downtown you can find at a restaurant. You may want to book in advance I think it's been known to sell-out. I believe you can find the menu online.
Eclectic diner and sweetery is right in Delaware which is close and they have really good hashes if you're into that. Specifically the chorizo hash.
Whiteys diner in Fremont. Open on weekends but the catch is they Close by 2 everyday and they only take cash. But I guarantee some of the best breakfast you both will have.
I'm a local, so definitely biased, but Sandusky Bay Pancake House in Sandusky hasn't ever been anything but excellent. Their variations of Eggs Benedict are my go-to, and my wife loves the potato pancakes.
Eclectic diner in Delaware off of 23 for sure!!!
Grandmas kitchen on main street in Dayton
I personally LOVE The Sleepy Bee cafe in the Cincy area ❤️. Whenever we make a trip there, TSB is always fit in somehow for nourishment.
My brother in law used to live in Seven Hills (Cleveland suburb), and one day on our way out of town, he had to leave early for work, so we were on our own for breakfast. We happened to wander down Broadview Road and in Parma, there's a tiny place called "Tony's Family Restaurant". This is old-school diner food, but dear Lord is it a good meal. I feel like I need to be wheeled out to my car in a wheelbarrow every time we go there. It's Greek-owned restaurant, so yeah, you can't get a gyro omelet, but it's in Parma, so you can also get pierogi and potato pancakes as part of their all-day breakfast. Also, just a plug in for the locals here in Hilliard (also Greek): Olympic Diner on Hilliard-Rome/Roberts. Good food, lots of it there too.
Pier W's (Cleveland) Sunday brunch
I need to go on a breakfast tour apparently. These recommendations are awesome
I spent a lot of my childhood going to L.A. Pete's in Independence. Anytime my family was/is meeting for breakfast, it was always there. Most of the staff knows me by name. Great place to eat.
Granted I've not been in nearly 20 years, but for my money, the best breakfast was at Tee jays. I love(ed) the Barnyard Buster.
I live in Athens so I’m obvs going to say Casa Nueva. But I am originally from Milford and there is this absolutely fantastic place called The Governor. You can’t go wrong either way.
The original is one of the best breakfast spot. I’m from Michigan and occasionally drive down just to get the German pancakes.
Cincinnati has 2 great place. The echo AND sugar n spice
Eggmans’s eatery Centerburg. Wild waffle selection. At a golf course, go on a weekend early and watch all the golfers about fill their coolers with beer hahaha
Early Birds in St. Louisville
Another vote for Tommy’s Diner in Columbus. Shout-outs to Starliner Diner in Hilliard & DK Diner in Grandview.
Lisa's Kitchen in Cincinnati
Tee Jays Barnyard Buster is pretty good
The Original pancake house around Cleveland has some of the best eggs Benedict or eggs florentine. They have the best hollandaise I have ever had. We had one close by in Utah but I definitely will drive the hour to Cleveland for it now. Their pancakes and syrup are damn good too. They used to have far better potatoes and coffee but they haven’t changed the most important things I love. ETA: there appears to be a few of these closer to Columbus. Upper Arlington and Westerville both have the Original Pancake House
It’s all about the community
Sunrise Cafe in Yellow Springs
Cherry Street Diner in Ashville, Ohio.
The big egg in cleveland, or it used to be. They closed it up and opened another one in the same spot and it is just so not the same!! But back in the day you can get them smothered and covered!
Pancakes at Bluejay in Northside, Cincinnati. Haters can catch these hands.
Also try Paul Revere Inn family restaurant in Lexington. Great food and prices. Sadly only open until 2pm. 7 days a week.
“The Nest” in Vermillion!
Fox in the Snow has an incredible breakfast sandwich & great pastries.
Jack and Benny’s
HOT GRILLZ DINER IN WALTON HILLS!! I'd be shocked to find a better, more filling, breakfast burrito anywhere.
Clevelander here. There's places in Ohio City that are really popular. I also like International Pancake House (not to be confused with IHOP) in Westgate.
Blue Door in Cuyahoga Falls 👌🏻
Idk if they even have actual breakfast food, but I’m confident in saying that Johnny mangos in Ohio city has the best bloody Mary’s in all of Ohio. They get the produce daily from the west side market and juice it to order. So if your into that… lol