26 Best Restaurants in Hamilton, OH
This article was written by local contributor Nora Ruiz & edited by the Travel Lens team.
Ah, Hamilton!
This charming city has always been my go-to place for dining out with friends and family.
The culinary scene here is truly exceptional, and I can't help but feel a sense of pride in the diverse array of delicious options that my city has to offer.
Whether you are seeking an unforgettable fine dining experience or a casual bite on the go, Hamilton has got you covered.
So, join me as we take a tour through some of the best restaurants in Hamilton, Ohio.
Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Al-Zaytuna Grill
One of the perks of living in this area is the diverse food options available, and Al-Zaytuna Grill has quickly become one of my favorite spots to grab a delicious meal.
Their website showcases their menu and more, but it's the experience in the restaurant that makes it truly special.
It's apparent that this family-run restaurant takes pride in providing an authentic Middle Eastern dining experience.
I can't get enough of their homemade stuffed grape leaves and lamb kebabs.
Their food is always fresh, flavorful, and satisfying – it's like a little taste of home.
Plus, they're always willing to go the extra mile to make customers happy.
On one visit, they even surprised me with a complimentary homemade baklava in my to-go order!
Tano Bistro Hamilton
I absolutely love going to Tano Bistro Hamilton for a delicious meal in a cozy atmosphere.
The food is always a delight, with a variety of entrees and unique cocktails that cater to various tastes.
It's nice to explore new dishes every time I visit, and I have yet to be disappointed.
One time, I dined on their lovely outdoor patio, and even though we were the only ones there, they ensured that we had everything we needed throughout our meal.
The exceptional service and delectable food make it a must-visit spot for all locals and visitors alike.
Deli Creations
Just a few weeks ago, I had the pleasure of ordering a charcuterie tray from Deli Creations.
I was thrilled with the presentation and the quality of the food.
Not only was it beautiful, but the price was also very reasonable.
I can't recommend them enough!
Aside from their fantastic charcuterie, Deli Creations is the go-to spot for delicious soups and sandwiches in our neighborhood.
I've tried a variety of their soups, such as the stuffed pepper soup, beefy noodle soup, chicken & dumpling soup, and broccoli cheddar soup.
All of them have been excellent, and their sandwiches are just as scrumptious.
You can customize your sandwich with any combination of deli meats and cheeses they offer.
Another highlight of Deli Creations is its cozy and welcoming atmosphere.
They also have some pantry and food items available for purchase, making it a convenient one-stop shop for those days when you need to grab a bite and stock up on essentials.
Pour House
I absolutely love spending my evenings at Pour House.
It's not your typical pub, and that's what makes it so special.
As soon as you walk in, you're greeted with a smile and given one of their cards after they authorize your credit card.
The party truly begins at this point.
The food at Pour House is always fresh and delicious, and the atmosphere is simply incredible.
I'm not sure if they're dog-friendly, but it would be amazing if they are.
Games are provided to keep everyone in your party engaged, and with the number of TVs, even going alone after work feels comfortable and enjoyable.
One of my favorite parts about Pour House is the extensive selection of taps, ranging from wine and liquor to beer, IPAs, and ales.
The variety of seating options – including high tops, regular tables, and even sofas – makes it the perfect spot to unwind with your main squeeze or a group of friends.
Chester's Pizzeria
Chester's Pizzeria has always been a go-to spot for pizza lovers like myself.
Located in a humble setting, this pizzeria has been a local mainstay since 1948.
Their menu goes beyond just pies - they also offer salads, sandwiches, pasta, and wings. You can check out their Facebook page here.
One thing to note is that Chester's is a takeout-only joint, so don't expect to grab a seat and dine in.
While they don't have a chip reader for cards, I usually just call in my order and pick it up without any hassle.
The pizzas are consistently fresh and ready within the promised time.
As for the pizza itself, I find it to be a step above the chain stores in the area.
While it may not be the absolute best pizza I've ever had, it's certainly good enough for a satisfying meal.
The toppings are flavorful, and the crust has just the right amount of crunch.
In a pinch, I've also tried their meatball subs, which have a delicious homemade taste.
So, if you're ever in the area and craving some pizza, don't hesitate to give Chester's Pizzeria a try. It's a local favorite for a reason!
ALL8UP Pizza & Hoagies
I have been a longtime customer of ALL8UP Pizza & Hoagies, and I absolutely love it! The food is always hot, fresh, and tasty.
I've never had an issue with ordering delivery, and the driver is a super great guy.
The food never arrives cold.
My go-to order is the 9-inch pepperoni with extra cheese, and it never disappoints.
The sauce is always great and the perfect amount.
I love a slightly crispy crust, and this pizza always delivers.
My partner often gets the steak hoagie.
Taqueria Guanajuato
I recently went to Taqueria Guanajuato for a meal with my family, and I have to say, the place left quite an impression on us.
As soon as we entered, we were taken aback by how spotlessly clean everything was - from the dining area to the kitchen view.
I decided to try their large seafood chimichanga, along with a side of beans, and I was definitely not disappointed.
The portion size was generous, and everything tasted amazing.
The chimichanga was so good that I even had the leftovers for lunch the next day, and it still tasted fantastic.
Billy Yanks
I recently visited Billy Yanks with my family for a weekday lunch, and I must say, the entire experience was nothing short of delightful.
As soon as we walked in, we were struck by the warm and relaxing ambiance of the restaurant.
For appetizers, we tried the “street egg rolls” and pretzel bites.
The egg rolls were a unique and scrumptious combination of hamburger and cheese that exceeded our expectations.
The pretzel bites, along with their delicious cheese dipping sauce, also proved to be a hit.
For my main course, I had the Billy Yank Burger with grilled onions, which were cooked to perfection and truly elevated the burger.
My partner opted for the Mac and cheese and couldn't stop raving about its creamy goodness.
Our son and granddaughter also thoroughly enjoyed their meals, making it an all-around fantastic dining experience.
To top off our visit, we shared a strawberry shortcake for dessert - a sweet and satisfying end to our meal.
True West Coffee
I absolutely love starting my mornings at True West Coffee!
The atmosphere is so cozy and inviting, with plenty of seating both indoors and outdoors to suit my mood.
The place is filled with character, art, and soul, making it one of my favorite spots to relax and catch up on some work or just enjoy a good book.
Their menu has a great variety of food and drink options to choose from, which always keeps me coming back for more.
One thing I never miss out on is their iced chai and breakfast burrito - truly delectable!
They also have plenty of vegetarian options, which is perfect for when I have friends and family with dietary restrictions joining me.
On one of my recent visits, they suggested the strawberry smoothie, which turned out to be a delight!
I also tried their turtle-flavored coffee, and I was not disappointed.
Taqueria La Morenita Mobile Mexican Grill
Every time I crave some authentic Mexican food, I always head to Taqueria La Morenita Mobile Mexican Grill.
Trust me; their mouth-watering tacos and burritos never disappoint!
Let me tell you - hands down, these are the best authentic Mexican street tacos around.
I've tried their Tostada Tinga, Quesadillas, Chicken, and Al Pastor tacos, and they are all simply delicious!
In my opinion, the Quesadilla seems to be the best value for money, but honestly, you can't go wrong with any of their dishes.
I have eaten here many times, and I can't wait to go back tonight for another round of flavorful Mexican goodness!
Nicc and Norms Tavern
One of my favorite go-to spots in town is Nicc and Norms Tavern.
It's a local gem that offers an amazing dining experience.
The food always exceeds my expectations, and the prices are incredibly reasonable for the quality they offer.
I often go there with my family and friends, and we love sharing their delicious appetizers, especially the Bavarian pretzels and fried ravioli.
The atmosphere is warm and inviting, making it an ideal place for a casual night out or a fun gathering with friends.
Millville Restaurant
I must admit, I was pleasantly surprised when a friend of mine recommended Millville Restaurant to me.
I had driven past it many times without even realizing it was there, tucked away like a hidden gem.
Since my first visit, it has become one of my go-to places for a delicious and reasonably priced meal.
The moment you walk in, you're greeted by the warm and friendly atmosphere.
One thing that I appreciate about Millville Restaurant is the quality of the food.
At first, I was skeptical because I'm not a big fan of diners, but the dishes here look and taste amazing!
Los Tacos Chilangos
I've had my fair share of taco truck experiences here in Hamilton, and I can confidently say that Los Tacos Chilangos is hands down the best one in town.
The tacos and quesadillas are reasonably priced at $3 and $6, respectively, and they never skimp on the flavor or meat.
I don't pass by their location often, but whenever I do, I make sure to indulge in their mouthwatering tacos and "corn in a cup".
On my most recent visit, I discovered that they also serve tamales from a window behind the truck – a pleasant surprise that has only elevated my love for this taco truck even more.
Neal's Famous BBQ
One thing I love about living in this area is discovering hidden gems like Neal's Famous BBQ.
My partner, I, and our friends go here often for a fun night out. Before I knew it, I was hooked on their delicious food – and I'm not even a huge BBQ fan!
Their fish is my partner's favorite, and I always make sure we get a plate to go as well.
This time, I tried their wings too, and I must say, they were just as good as everything else we had.
The cozy and quaint atmosphere made for a perfect evening, and we were greeted with a warm welcome and a smile as soon as we walked in.
The service was great, and the food arrived in a timely manner since it was all prepared to order.
I must mention that their Rib tips, Mac and cheese, greens, baked beans, coleslaw, and jerk chicken are absolutely amazing!
And the sweet tea – it's not too sweet, just perfect.
We enjoyed every single bite of our meal. I even had their pork BBQ Sliders and burger Sliders with a side of fries and Mac n cheese for lunch later, and it was still great.
Gina's Italian Kitchen & Tavern
As someone who frequently visits Gina's Italian Kitchen & Tavern, I can vouch for the excellent food and service this place offers.
I remember one particular evening, the restaurant was packed from 5 PM until around 7:30 PM, and despite the crowd, they managed to deliver top-notch service.
The chicken parmesan and chicken Alfredo was absolutely phenomenal, and the pizza had a hint of pesto that made the sauce incredibly delightful. You can find the location of this amazing restaurant here.
On another visit, I tried the chicken Parmesan, and it turned out to be the best I have ever had.
The garlic bread was so good that I couldn't resist packing some for my carb-loving mom.
Hyde's Restaurant
One of my favorite places to grab a bite in Hamilton is Hyde's Restaurant.
This casual diner has been a staple in our community since 1946, serving up mouthwatering burgers, classic American entrees, and their famous housemade pies.
It's no wonder that generations of families have made it their go-to spot for a delicious meal.
Whenever I walk into Hyde's, I'm immediately greeted with the delightful aroma of their home-cooked meals.
It's easy to see why I, along with many others in town, have overlooked the restaurant's unassuming exterior - but once inside, you're welcomed into a spacious and comfortable dining area.
Breakfast at Hyde's is always a treat.
I particularly enjoy their biscuits and gravy, which never fails to hit the spot and start my day off right.
It's also been the location of many memorable family gatherings and catch-up sessions with old friends.
The Avenue Tavern & Grille
I recently visited The Avenue Tavern & Grille after work, and I must say it was a great experience!
The place was clean, the bartenders were friendly and attentive, and they approached me right away to take my order.
The food was hot, fresh, and excellent, and I'm already planning to go back next week!
The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, with a mix of locals who seem to treat the place like their second home.
It's a typical hole-in-the-wall bar, but that's part of its charm.
Plus, the prices are fair, so it's an affordable option for a night out.
Aside from the tasty food and great service, The Avenue Tavern & Grille also has pool tables and darts for entertainment.
Karaoke nights are a blast, too - I can't wait to get on the microphone and sing my heart out next time!
The Casual Pint Hamilton Ohio
I recently went to The Casual Pint Hamilton Ohio, for lunch with a friend, and I must say, it was an amazing experience.
The service was fast, efficient, and very hospitable.
I ordered a taco salad with guacamole, while my friend chose a wrap.
I didn't even get a chance to take a picture of our food because it was gone in no time - yes, it was that good!
One of the things that really stood out to me on this visit was the warm and welcoming atmosphere.
The food at The Casual Pint was absolutely delicious.
I had the spicy chicken quesadilla, which was packed with flavor, while my friend tried the BBQ chicken flatbread without bacon and said it was scrumptious, too.
And for all the beer lovers out there, they have a constantly rotating selection of taps and cans for sale, so you can always try something new.
I can't believe it took me three years to discover this hidden gem in my town, but I'm definitely glad I did.
Legends Bar and Grill
Last month, I decided to celebrate my birthday at Legends Bar and Grill, and I must say, it was one of the best decisions I've made in a while.
From the moment I walked in, the atmosphere was lively and welcoming.
One of the highlights of the night was the food.
I'd heard great things about their daily specials and thought it'd be the perfect opportunity to try them out. I wasn't disappointed!
Everything we ordered was delicious, and I was particularly impressed with their Taco Tuesday offering.
My friends who have kids even mentioned how much their little ones enjoyed the food on their previous visits.
Of course, no birthday celebration is complete without drinks, and Legends did not disappoint in this department either.
Their selection of cocktails was impressive, and they were some of the best I've had in town.
I've since returned to Legends Bar and Grill for their weekly sports nights, where they show games on multiple TVs for fans to enjoy.
The Drink Tavern
Just last week, I went to The Drink Tavern with a few friends, and I have to say, I was impressed.
This was my first time there, but it definitely won't be my last.
The menu might be small, but the food we ordered was absolutely delicious.
We tried their pizza, steak, hoagie, and tots, and I can't wait to come back for more.
The vibe of the place is just perfect for a casual night out.
The drinks were reasonably priced, and the service was top-notch.
I couldn't help but feel a sense of community with the other patrons as we enjoyed our evening at the tavern.
Mad Mike's Burgers & Fries
Just the other day, I decided to grab a bite from Mad Mike's Burgers & Fries.
The pictures on their website made the burgers look massive, so I was really excited to try them.
It was around 12:32 pm, and the place was starting to get busy.
I decided to order the American Outlaw burger, and though the beef patties were not as massive as the pictures made them seem, they were thick and of average size compared to other burger joints like Five Guys.
I did feel that the burger could use some more seasoning, though, and it would be great if they had different flavors of burger seasoning available for customers to add to their taste.
The food was definitely worth the price, and I wasn't disappointed with the value for my money.
One thing that stood out during my visit was the excellent service for a large Jeep group that came in to eat.
Jolly's Drive In (West)
Every year, when the weather starts to get warmer, I find myself excitedly waiting for Jolly's Drive In (West) to open up for the season.
I've been going to Jolly's since I was a kid, and it always brings back fond memories.
This year, I decided to try out their footlong hot dog with chili, onions, and mustard.
The chili's spice was just right, and the rest of the hotdog was delicious.
The french fries was also well-seasoned, and the hamburger I ordered was tasty.
Their root beer was also as amazing as ever.
Served ice-cold in a glass mug, it's definitely the star of the show at Jolly's.
Skyline Chili
Last week, I decided to treat myself and my family to a dinner at Skyline Chili.
I've always appreciated the comfortable setting and diner-style dishes garnished with their signature Greek chili.
I had heard from a friend that their hours had changed, so I double-checked on Google before heading out.
Thankfully, we arrived well before their closing time.
My son, who recently moved back from South Florida, was especially excited to dine here since the Skyline Chili near him had closed down.
He couldn't stop raving about how much he had missed their food and how happy he was to be able to enjoy it again.
One of my favorite things about Skyline Chili is the sense of community and the memories we've made here over the years.
It's the perfect spot for a post-concert dinner with the family or just a casual night out with friends.
Wings on Brookwood
As a regular visitor to Wings on Brookwood, I can say that this modern sports bar never disappoints.
It's true that finding a seat can be challenging sometimes, but it's worth the wait.
Their wings, especially the ones with garlic sauce, are simply amazing.
And if you're a cheese fries fan, their appetizer is one of the best, in my opinion.
Apart from wings, they also offer burgers and chicken sandwiches for those who prefer something different.
What sets Wings on Brookwood apart is the quality and size of their wings, as well as the variety of sauces and heat levels available.
Mike's Chili & Gyros
I can't help but keep coming back to Mike's Chili & Gyros.
Their amazing friendly service and clean atmosphere make it a pleasure to dine at.
The food is generous in portions and packed with delicious flavors.
I especially appreciate that they use real bacon, not the imitation kind.
I remember first coming here as a little boy and loving it.
The same family has been running the place all these years, and it still has that warm, welcoming feel.
I always order the Cheddar gyro with honey mustard – even though my palate has changed, I can't bring myself to try it any other way.
I've also heard great things about their Cincinnati-style chili, but I'm a gyro fan through and through.
La Pinata Mexican Grill & Bar
I've always loved Mexican cuisine, so when I heard that La Pinata of Hamilton had opened where the previous restaurant LaCuezela used to be, I knew I had to check it out.
The moment I walked in, I was greeted by the sight of beautiful murals and colorful painted wood furniture that instantly brightened up my mood.
As I sat down, I could hear traditional Mexican music playing in the background, which just added to the overall atmosphere.
Their menu is available on their website, so I had already decided what I wanted to try.
The food, however, was the absolute highlight of the visit.
I ordered a quesadilla, and it was massive, loaded with delicious steak.
My friend got the fajitas, which were served sizzling hot, and the burritos were gigantic, with beans on one side and rice on the other.
The chips, salsa, and queso dip were so good that we couldn't help but keep asking for refills.
Another thing that I loved about La Pinata was their drinks selection.
They have a bar stocked with quality liquors, and their margaritas were simply amazing.
Plus, with happy hour offering $2.99 margaritas, I know I'll be coming back to this place regularly.
Final Thoughts
Hamilton, Ohio, has truly been a treasure trove of diverse and delicious dining options.
From the mouth-watering Mediterranean flavors of Al-Zaytuna Grill to the fresh and authentic Mexican cuisine at Taqueria Guanajuato, there's something for everyone in our small but vibrant city.
Whether you're a fellow local or just passing through, I highly encourage you to dive in and experience the fantastic flavors our city has to offer.
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