20 Best Restaurants in Akron, OH

If there's one thing I love about living in Akron, it's the city's diverse and thriving culinary scene.

From mouthwatering comfort food to innovative international cuisine, there's always something new and exciting to try in this bustling city.

Over the years, I've had the pleasure of exploring countless eateries in Akron, and I'm constantly amazed by the talent and creativity of our local chefs.

In this article, I'll be sharing my personal favorites - the 20 best restaurants in Akron, Ohio.

Whether you're in the mood for a classic dish or something completely unexpected, these establishments are sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you eager for more.

The Square Scullery

Last week, I finally had the chance to visit The Square Scullery, a place that describes itself as "Punk Rock meets Gourmet."

I had been wanting to try this place for ages, and I'm so glad I finally did.

The vibe inside is amazing - the ambiance, the decor, and the cozy, intimate space make for an unforgettable dining experience.

I made a reservation before going, which was a good call, as the place can fill up pretty quickly due to its size.

Their menu is full of unique and delicious dishes made from scratch and utilizing local ingredients.

I started off with their famous corn ribs, which were absolutely life-changing.

I'm not typically a fan of corn, but these were incredible, and I can see why they're so popular.

For my main course, I opted for duck fried rice, which was another standout dish.

The flavors were rich and savory, and it's something I'd highly recommend to everyone.

My friend dined on the chicken sandwich and chips, and he gave it an A+.

To finish our meal, we shared a mango cake with basil cream for dessert.

It was a refreshing and delightful way to end an amazing dining experience.

Vasili's Greek Cuisine

I recently visited Vasili's Greek Cuisine for a dining experience that I won't soon forget.

Their expansive menu had so many tempting options, but I decided to order their popular moussaka dish, and it was the perfect stick-to-your-ribs comfort food that left me completely satisfied.

The portions were generous, and the prices were very fair, making it a great value for such a delicious meal.

I couldn't resist trying their house-made baklava for dessert, and it was served warm and absolutely scrumptious.

Not only was the food amazing, but the cleanliness of the restaurant and the dining area really stood out to me.

It's clear that Vasili's Greek Cuisine takes pride in providing an exceptional dining experience for its guests, and I can't wait to go back and try some more of their dishes, like their fresh salads and gyro.

Alexander Pierce Restaurant

I've been wanting to explore new dining experiences in the area and finally made it to Alexander Pierce Restaurant.

This family-owned and operated fine dining restaurant caught my attention not only for its menu but also for its unique ambiance.

There's a hotel, theater, and speakeasy vibe all rolled into one.

The decor is lovely, and the rooftop seating is a nice touch.

Upon arriving, I was impressed by the exceptional service.

Everyone was welcoming and attentive, making the whole experience feel luxurious.

I started my meal with the French onion soup, which was absolutely delicious, followed by a perfectly cooked certified Angus beef steak.

I'd highly recommend saving room for dessert, as I indulged in some beignets that were simply divine.

The cocktails at Alexander Pierce are strong and interesting, but make sure to read the details before ordering, as some flavor profiles might not be your cup of tea.

One thing that stood out to me was their pasta dishes.

I tried the pasta bolognese and cavatelli, both of which were cooked well and featured flavorful sauces.

The Caesar salad was also a pleasant surprise, with its crisp romaine and fresh tomatoes.

If you happen to visit during the winter months, you might be lucky enough to catch their Prime Rib special.

I've not had the chance to taste it yet, but I'm looking forward to my next visit to Alexander Pierce Restaurant.

Lockview Restaurant

Recently, I decided to treat myself to dinner at Lockview Restaurant, a laid-back venue in my town with a patio specializing in grilled cheese sandwiches, plus cocktails, wine, and beer.

I've heard of their gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches and craft beer offerings, so I thought it would be the perfect place to unwind after a long day.

When I arrived, I was pleased to find a table available without having to wait.

The restaurant was busy yet maintained a quiet and welcoming atmosphere.

The menu was extensive, with countless grilled cheese sandwich options to choose from.

To start, I ordered the mac n cheese bites, which arrived hot and ready to enjoy.

After much deliberation, I decided on the pesto grilled cheese and the artichoke grilled cheese, and I couldn't have been happier with my choices.

Both sandwiches were packed with flavor, and the bread had the perfect amount of crispiness.

Each sandwich came with goldfish crackers as a side, but I opted to upgrade to hand-cut fries, and I was not disappointed.

I also ordered a bowl of their delicious tomato soup to dip my sandwiches in.

The service at Lockview Restaurant was top-notch, and the prices were very reasonable.

As a bonus, the venue's openness made for a relaxing dining experience.

I can't wait to return and try more of their unique grilled cheese sandwiches and other offerings.

Taqueria Tres Amigos

I recently had the pleasure of dining at Taqueria Tres Amigos, a small and unassuming taco place that was recommended to me by friends.

Despite its modest appearance, the food was simply incredible.

I ordered two tacos - one chicken and one chorizo - which were both bursting with flavor.

The chicken was moist and perfectly cooked, while the chorizo had just the right amount of spice.

In addition to the tacos, I decided to step out of my comfort zone and try their cow stomach soup.

I was initially apprehensive about the dish, but the flavor profile was astonishing.

I opted for the spicy version, and it was by no means overwhelming.

The authentic street tacos at Taqueria Tres Amigos rival those I've had in California.

My personal favorites were the al pastor and carnitas, which reminded me of the delicious tacos I used to enjoy while living in Texas.

You can truly taste the freshness of the ingredients, as the restaurant receives daily provisions due to limited storage space.

Everything is made from scratch on the same day, resulting in incredibly flavorful dishes.

Valley Café Restaurant

I recently visited Valley Café Restaurant in Akron after hearing great things about it, and I have to say, it lived up to the hype.

I chose their signature dish, the Shrimp and Grit Cakes, which was an absolute delight.

The homemade sauces and gravies they use in their dishes really make a difference in the taste.

The atmosphere of the café is very relaxing, making it the perfect spot to have a leisurely breakfast or lunch.

One thing that really stood out to me was their locally roasted coffee, which was so good that I had to order a second cup.

On my visit, I couldn't help but notice that they have a couple of vegan options as well as an apple pie cold brew that I'll definitely try the next time I visit.

I also loved that they have a variety of omelets and other breakfast favorites like Eggs Benedict and Grilled Amish Bread.

Kevin O'Bryan's

One of my favorite go-to spots in the area is Kevin O'Bryan's.

This place is a hidden gem with an inviting atmosphere and incredible food.

I remember going there with my wife on a night out, and we had an amazing time.

The 10 oz steak dinner I had was juicy, tender, and cooked perfectly, while my wife couldn't stop raving about her fish tacos.

We also took home 12 boneless wings, which were the best we've ever had, and at an unbeatable price of just 8 bucks!

The real mashed potatoes were fluffy and flavorful, while the large salad that came with my meal was topped with cheese, croutons, tomatoes, radishes, and onions, all paired with a delicious homemade white French dressing.

My wife and I also shared a $2.99 side of fries, which was more than enough for both of us.

The fries were hot and mouthwatering, making us want to come back for more.

Another reason why I love this place is their trivia nights on Tuesdays.

It's free to play, with prizes, and it's also $5 burger night – a great value for the quality of their burgers.

I've tried their Chipotle burger and the FPC burger with a fried egg on top, and both are absolutely delicious.

Akron Family Restaurant

One morning, I decided to try out Akron Family Restaurant for breakfast.

The moment I walked in, I could tell that this place was a true old-fashioned neighborhood gem.

The restaurant was clean and had been updated to a comfortable and modern look, which made me feel right at home.

The food selection was extensive, with breakfast available all day.

Though the menu had typical breakfast items, I appreciated the variety of rotating specials, which made the dining experience more exciting.

I decided to try their Chorizo Omelette, and it did not disappoint.

The portions were quite generous, and the flavors were spot on.

Moreover, the atmosphere was warm and welcoming, making it an ideal spot for solo diners and groups alike.

Aladdin's Eatery Highland Square

Whenever I crave some delicious Lebanese-American food, I can't resist heading to Aladdin's Eatery Highland Square.

The casual and smoke-free atmosphere is perfect for a relaxed meal with friends and family.

I started with their famous cauliflower appetizer, which I could honestly eat every day, and then enjoyed a scrumptious beef shawarma roll.

To complement the meal, I tried an Almaza Lebanese beer that was smooth and light, just what I needed to wash down the flavorful food.

I also ordered the chicken sambusek specialty plate, which was smaller than expected, but the flavors were spot on.

The small baba gannouj served with it was actually quite generous, and even though the pita bread that came with it wasn't as crispy as I'd hoped, the overall taste was still amazing.

Ken Stewart's Grille

As a local food enthusiast, I'm always in search of places that offer top-notch dining experiences.

One that never disappoints is Ken Stewart's Grille.

This polished establishment offers a traditional steakhouse menu alongside exquisite cocktails and a lengthy wine list.

Upon entering, the ambiance set the tone for a memorable evening.

The dim lighting, dark interiors, and intimate seating made it the perfect setting for a classy dinner or date.

As I perused the menu, I was pleased to find a wide variety of options, from seafood and salads to their specialty - steaks.

I decided to start with the popular Japanese shrimp appetizer, and I was not disappointed.

The flavors were fantastic and left me eager to try the main course.

For my entrée, I went with the ribeye steak, cooked medium rare.

It arrived beautifully charred on the outside and had a gorgeous pink inside.

The steak was so juicy, I felt the need to express my gratitude to the chef.

While waiting for my dessert, I couldn't help but admire the lively atmosphere around me.

Sitting in the room with the bar allowed me to watch the crowd, listen to the conversations, and even get a friendly greeting from Ken and Kevin themselves.

As I indulged in the delicious crème brûlée dessert, complete with a glass-crisp top and perfect texture, I couldn't help but appreciate the consistency of excellence at Ken Stewart's Grille.

King Crab Seafood Restaurant

One of my favorite places to dine in town is King Crab Seafood Restaurant.

Whenever I have a craving for seafood, this restaurant never disappoints!

Walking in, the ambiance is warm and inviting, with a touch of elegance.

The menu offers a wide variety of seafood options, with a focus on fresh and high-quality ingredients.

I've had the pleasure of trying several dishes, and I must say that the king crab legs are truly the best in town.

They're cooked to perfection: succulent and flavorful.

The shrimp scampi is another favorite; the shrimp are cooked just right, and the garlic butter sauce is divine.

I also love their clam chowder – it's rich and creamy, with just the right amount of clams and potatoes.

On one visit, I decided to try their seafood platter, and it was absolutely amazing!

It had a little bit of everything: crab, shrimp, scallops, and fish, all cooked to perfection and seasoned beautifully.

The portion size was generous, making it perfect for sharing with friends or family.

King Crab Seafood Restaurant also offers a range of non-seafood dishes for those who prefer something else.

Their steak options are always cooked just the way I like them, and the chicken dishes are full of flavor.

Pair your meal with a glass of wine from their extensive wine list, and you've got yourself a perfect evening.

Steinly's Restaurant

As a local, I love visiting Steinly's Restaurant whenever I'm in the mood for a classic dinner experience.

This small, unpretentious eatery offers delicious American breakfast and lunch options in a cozy, greasy-spoon atmosphere.

One of my favorite dishes to order is their corned beef Reuben, which is honestly some of the best-corned beef I've ever tasted.

Their potato soup is also worth trying, as it has a perfect consistency, and the potatoes are cooked just right - not too mushy nor too firm.

During one of my visits, I decided to try their sausage gravy and biscuits with eggs, which I heard were made on-site.

I was not disappointed at all, as my companion also had very positive reviews about the dish.

On another occasion, I ordered the Bernie special, which consisted of eggs over biscuits smothered in sausage gravy and served with home fries.

The dish was absolutely delicious and filling.

Steinly's is not the place to expect high-quality steaks, but they do excel in offering satisfying and well-prepared comfort food.

The food is served in generous portions, and the prices are quite affordable.

For instance, their western omelet with two slices of buttered toast cost only $6.95, which is a great bargain compared to other places I've been to.

Chowder House Cafe

I remember the first time I visited Chowder House Cafe, it was a pleasant surprise.

I ended up there after noticing a woman wearing a shirt with the cafe's name on it, and thought I would give it a try.

The restaurant is tucked away off Merriman in the valley, near the Weathervane Playhouse.

Upon entering, I was immediately drawn to the colorful wall art and eclectic furnishings that adorned the place.

The space had a unique blend of fine dining and avant-garde, making it feel welcoming and warm.

I secured a corner table that offered great views of the dining area, perfect for people-watching.

To start, my companion and I shared the Fried Soft Shell Crab appetizer, which was deliciously breaded and served with a tangy remoulade and field greens.

For our entrees, we chose the Seafood Pappardelle and the Seafood Etoufee.

The Seafood Pappardelle was one of the best seafood pasta dishes I've ever had, featuring huge shrimp, lobster, and scallops in a three-cheese cream sauce over locally made pasta.

Each ingredient was cooked to perfection, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.

On the other hand, the Seafood Etoufee was a bit of a sneak attack.

I personally enjoyed the spiciness and thought it complemented the other flavors beautifully.

The dish featured crawfish, shrimp, and scallops in a traditional Cajun-style etouffee, served over sweet white rice.

Aside from the fantastic food, we also tried some drinks from the bar.

I particularly enjoyed their take on an old fashion called "Pepper in Your Rye."

It was a great accompaniment to our meal.

Mickey & Claude's House Soul Food

There are certain establishments where you don't just dine, but rather, you experience the profound joys of soulful cuisine, and in Akron, Mickey & Claude's House Soul Food epitomizes that experience.

Every visit, I'm always enthralled by the unassailable perfection of their Southern cooking.

The fried chicken is a marvel in itself - crisply coated and succulent within, exuding flavors that seem to unfurl with every bite.

And the collard greens and mac & cheese?

They're nostalgia on a plate, a taste of grandma's homely kitchen that never fails to hit the right spot.

Now, let me just say that their peach cobbler is the ultimate cherry on top - a slice of heaven that you wouldn't want to miss.

What complements their divine food is the heartfelt hospitality.

The restaurant's ambiance also deserves accolades.

With its tasteful decor suffused with Southern charm and a cozy atmosphere that embraces you, it feels like stepping into a loving, inviting home.

Lyeh Thai Restaurant

I recently visited Lyeh Thai Restaurant and was blown away by the authentic flavors and impressive variety of dishes on their menu.

I decided to order the pad Thai, and it was absolutely delicious - the hint of lime really elevated the dish.

In addition, I couldn't resist trying the green curry, which turned out to be a fantastic choice.

It had the perfect balance of spiciness and creaminess, making it one of the best curries I've ever tasted.

While I was dining, I noticed a couple of other dishes being served to other guests that looked equally appetizing.

The Burmese tea leaf salad and fried tilapia with sour and spicy sauce caught my eye, and I made a mental note to try them on my next visit.

As a fan of bubble tea, I was also happy to see that they offered a strawberry bubble tea with a classic Burmese twist by using condensed milk.

Lyeh Thai Restaurant has quickly become my go-to spot for Thai and Burmese cuisine in the Akron area.

Ido Bar & Grill

I recently visited Ido Bar & Grill, a down-to-earth tavern located in my neighborhood that was established in 1998.

Upon entering, I noticed that the exterior might be plain, but the interior was nicely decorated.

I started my meal with some appetizers, including mozzarella wedges and pierogies with sausage and onions.

The mozzarella wedges were incredible, possibly the best I've had in town.

Although the pierogies were not the best I've ever had, they were still pretty solid.

For my main course, I decided to try their cheese steak sandwich and fries, which were both delicious.

I also noticed that their menu had a wide variety of dishes, including burgers, steaks, and seafood.

During my visit, I was particularly impressed with the bartender, Michelle, who was hustling to keep everyone's drinks filled, taking orders, and serving food.

The place seemed quite popular with many repeat customers, so I'm sure the food is consistently good.

The prices at Ido Bar & Grill were reasonable, and while it may not be high-end cuisine, I think it's a great spot for a relaxed meal.

I'm already planning my next visit to try out their burger, and I've heard their prime rib sliders are also a must-try.

Papa Joe's Iacomini's

One of my favorite spots for a meal is Papa Joe's Iacomini's, a family-run restaurant in Akron that offers Southern Italian dishes, along with steaks and seafood, in a casual setting.

During my last visit, I started off with an order of fried zucchini and shrimp toast as appetizers, followed by their delightful chicken Marsala and Mediterranean pasta.

Their in-house French dressing for the salads is something you must try as well.

What truly sets Papa Joe's apart is their extensive wine selection, which is arguably the best in the Akron area.

I enjoyed a glass of Quilt Cabernet by Caymus, and the best part is that they charge retail prices from their wine shop in the restaurant.

You can even walk over to the wine shop and bring your selection back to the table.

Speaking of their wine shop, it's actually an Italian market as well, featuring a wide range of authentic Italian goods and wines.

It's the perfect place to pick up some items to take home after a delicious meal.

The desserts at Papa Joe's are not to be missed either.

I treated myself to a slice of their lemon cream cake, which was heavenly, but my friends also enjoyed the raspberry cheesecake, tiramisu, and carrot cake.

Cilantro Thai & Sushi Restaurant

As a frequent visitor to Cilantro Thai & Sushi Restaurant, I can't help but rave about their amazing menu options and impeccable service.

The unique blend of authentic Thai cuisine and sushi bar always leaves me eager for more, and the contemporary room is the perfect setting for a night out in downtown Akron.

When I first walked into Cilantro, I was impressed by the size of the restaurant and the welcoming atmosphere.

During my recent dinner at Cilantro, I had to try their popular Singapore Noodles with chicken and shrimp.

The portion sizes are huge, and the flavors were absolutely divine.

I also highly recommend their crab Rangoon, edamame, and their "lunch box" option for a satisfying midday meal.

One thing to note is that it's always best to make a reservation, as the restaurant can get quite busy, especially on weekends.

I've seen people waiting for tables, so it's best to plan ahead and ensure a spot.

The reservation process was quick and easy, making for a smooth dining experience.

Cilantro's menu is vast, offering something for everyone, from sushi lovers to Thai cuisine enthusiasts.

The restaurant's atmosphere caters to a variety of occasions, whether it's a group gathering or an intimate date night.

The next time I'm in downtown Akron, I will definitely be returning to Cilantro Thai & Sushi Restaurant to try more of their delicious dishes!

D'Agnese's at White Pond Akron

D'Agnese's at White Pond is an Italian restaurant that offers both traditional and modern dishes in a white-tablecloth dining room and a buzzy bar area.

I've been coming here for years, and the food never disappoints.

The cozy ambiance, with its warm lighting and classy decor, immediately made me feel at home.

I started my meal with their famous homemade bread along with the stuffed hot peppers appetizer – a perfect combination of spicy and savory flavors.

For my entree, I decided on the Veal Saltimbocca, which was cooked to perfection and accompanied by a delicious and rich red wine demi-glace sauce.

The portion size was just right, leaving me satisfied but not overstuffed.

My dining companions raved about their dishes as well, particularly the Shrimp Scampi and the Chicken Marsala.

The highlight of the meal, however, was the dessert.

We shared a slice of their heavenly tiramisu, which was the perfect balance of creamy mascarpone and espresso-soaked ladyfingers.

It was truly the best way to end our dining experience at D'Agnese's.

Luigi's Restaurant

I recently went to Luigi's Restaurant, and I have to say, this place is a hidden gem!

As soon as I walked in, I felt right at home with the cozy little booths and the warm, comfortable atmosphere.

It's a down-home institution that offers hearty pies, and other classic Italian eats in a comfortable atmosphere.

My friends and I arrived just before 5 pm, and by 5:15, the place was packed, even on a Monday!

We started off with a salad that came with a heaping mound of cheese, and the bread served was warm and crispy.

We also decided to split a small pepperoni pizza between the four of us, which was perfectly in between flat and crispy oven crust.

For my main dish, I ordered spaghetti with meat sauce, and the portion size was just right - not too small, not too big.

Two of my friends ordered other dishes, which were also well-portioned and delicious.

We noticed a large wine assortment available, and while the restaurant is cash-only, they do have an ATM on-site for convenience.

Final Thoughts

Akron's diverse culinary scene never ceases to amaze me.

From mouth-watering soul food and authentic Greek cuisine to tempting seafood dishes and classic Italian fare, there's something for every palate in this city.

I encourage everyone to explore these incredible establishments and discover their own favorites!