18 Best Restaurants in Lima, OH
This article was written by local contributor Bryce Stokes & edited by the Travel Lens team.
Ah, Lima, the charming city in northwest Ohio where I've spent countless days and nights exploring its culinary scene.
From cozy cafes to elegant fine dining, Lima has a diverse range of restaurants that never cease to amaze me with their delicious creations.
I've always enjoyed taking my friends and family to my favorite spots, and over the years, I've discovered some hidden gems that I believe are worth sharing with you.
So, get ready to embark on a culinary journey through my beloved city as I unveil the best restaurants in Lima, Ohio.
Trust me, your taste buds are in for a delightful treat!
TJ's Pizza
Oh, how I adore TJ's Pizza!
I have been eating their delicious pies since I was just a kid in the 80s.
Their old-school pizza recipe has remained unbeatable throughout all these years.
Even after moving to Columbus and trying out at least two dozen non-franchised pizza joints, I still haven't found any pizza that can compare to the taste of TJ's.
TJ's Pizza is not only amazing but also a staple in my area.
I remember the first time I tried their pizza – it was love at first bite.
Their crust is the perfect balance between crispy and chewy, and the toppings are always fresh and abundant.
I've even gone so far as to dig through the trash for leftover slices – that's how much I crave their pizza!
La Charreada
La Charreada has become one of my go-to restaurants.
My family and I find ourselves dining there several times a month, and we're always satisfied with the experience.
Their service is consistently quick and friendly, making us feel welcomed every time we visit.
Their website gives you a good idea of the colorful and artistic ambiance that awaits you inside.
One thing that really stands out for me is their drinks – they're always spot-on.
As for the food, my kids absolutely love the chicken dishes, and their fries are some of the crispiest and most delicious I've ever had.
I've heard from out-of-town visitors that their Queso Birria Tacos are even better than what they've had in Texas, which is quite a compliment!
Jalapenos Mexican Grill
The other day, I decided to grab lunch at Jalapenos Mexican Grill in Lima.
I've always found it to be a slightly cheaper alternative to Chipotle, yet with equally delicious options.
On this visit, I must say the food was great, as usual.
I particularly love their seasoning, which I find even better than Chipotle's.
I also noticed that the meat was fresh and flavorful.
El Cazador
I recently visited El Cazador in Lima, Ohio, and it was quite a delightful experience.
From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
The menu offered a wide variety of authentic Mexican dishes and a great selection of adult beverages.
I decided to try the Enchiladas Suiza, and I was not disappointed.
The food was hot, fresh, and full of flavor.
Plus, the presentation was spot on, making it an enjoyable meal from start to finish.
What truly sets El Cazador apart, though, is their impeccable attention to detail – not only with the food but also with the restaurant's ambiance.
The bright and cheerful decor gave the place a lively, festive feel, and I couldn't help but feel happy and relaxed throughout my meal.
Kewpee Hamburgers
Whenever I crave a classic American burger, I always head to Kewpee Hamburgers in my hometown.
Their time-tested, fast-food menu features old-fashioned burgers, fries, and malts that never fail to satisfy my taste buds.
I particularly love their cheeseburger, which is always juicy, flavorful, and cooked to perfection.
In addition to the delicious food, Kewpee also has a drive-thru window, making it convenient for a quick on-the-go meal.
One of the things I cherish about Kewpee Hamburgers is the retro and charming atmosphere.
With its nostalgic vibe, it transports me back to a simpler time, making dining there a genuinely enjoyable experience.
Hunan Gardens-Lima
Hunan Gardens-Lima is one of my favorite Chinese restaurants.
The restaurant has an unpretentious and cozy atmosphere, perfect for a casual meal with friends or family.
When you walk in, you'll immediately notice the red-hued decor and clean environment.
One of my favorite dishes to order is the mu shu beef, which is always cooked perfectly and full of delicious flavors.
I also highly recommend their kung pao chicken and Hot & Sour soup, which are both great options if you're craving spicy dishes.
The quality of the food at Hunan Gardens-Lima has never disappointed me—even during peak hours, my order always arrives swiftly, and the portions are generous.
The combination of lo-mein and Yangzhou fried rice is also an excellent choice if you're looking for a flavorful and filling meal.
Sugar Street Bar & Grill
I've seen Sugar Street Bar & Grill evolve from just a basic bar to a place where you can enjoy amazing food and entertainment.
The first time I visited Sugar Street Bar & Grill, I was looking for a place to grab some delicious tacos, and the reviews I read online did not disappoint.
As I became a regular at this bar, I noticed how they have continuously improved their menu.
They now offer a wide variety of dishes, from mouth-watering pizzas to satisfying breakfast meals.
The pizza here is particularly impressive, with its rich sauce, gooey cheese, and generous toppings.
I've tried many places in town, but their pizza is definitely one of my favorites.
Apart from the food, Sugar Street Bar & Grill also provides excellent service.
Another reason I love hanging out at Sugar Street Bar & Grill is the entertainment they offer.
They have karaoke nights, which I believe are the best in town.
I used to come here with my friends for karaoke, and we always had a blast singing our hearts out and enjoying the lively atmosphere.
Thai Jasmine
One of my favorite spots in town is Thai Jasmine, a cozy and intimate Thai restaurant.
The atmosphere is so warm and welcoming, which makes it perfect for a night out with friends or family.
I can never get enough of their steamed dumplings – they have such a great texture and flavor.
My partner is a huge fan of their sesame duck, which is always crispy and fresh.
I love that you can choose your spice level for each dish, and we usually go for a level 3 – just enough kick without being overwhelming.
The duck curry is another must-try, and don't forget to order their sweet Thai iced tea.
They even offer free refills!
Mara's Gourmet
I recently had the pleasure of dining at Mara's Gourmet, located right here in Lima, and it was an absolutely delightful experience.
The restaurant itself is in a small, cozy house, which adds to its charm and makes it feel like a hidden gem in our town.
From the moment I walked in, I was impressed by the elegant interior, complete with a well-stocked wine selection and upscale décor.
The food was nothing short of amazing.
I started off with the Mushroom Lobster Egg Rolls, which were a perfect blend of flavors and textures.
For my main course, I enjoyed the Stuffed Walleye, which was cooked to perfection and full of delicious, fresh ingredients.
As a regular visitor to Mara's Gourmet, I appreciate that they often change their menu specials.
I can't wait to return and try the latest creation.
Old City Prime
I usually go to Old City Prime to hang out with friends.
This American restaurant and lounge offer not only mouth-watering steaks but also an amazing live entertainment experience.
I'm always excited to attend their events, especially when they have dueling pianos, jazz, or tribute bands.
The last time I went there, my partner and I shared a variety of dishes, including the pork belly appetizer, delmonico with baked potato, and the unforgettable bacon-wrapped meatloaf with truffle fries.
For dessert, we indulged in their bread pudding and creme brulee, which were simply to die for.
Of course, we also enjoyed a few cocktails – it's always fun to try their creative concoctions.
Everything was fantastic and, considering the quality, the price was quite reasonable too.
I've also had the pleasure of experiencing their exceptional service.
And if you're unsure what to order, don't hesitate to ask for recommendations!
Rapid Fired Pizza
One of my favorite spots to grab a quick and delicious pizza is Rapid Fired Pizza in Lima, Ohio.
What I love most about this place is the flexibility that they offer when it comes to customizing your pizza.
My partner and I can never agree on toppings, but here, they allow us to choose different toppings for each half of the pizza, making both of us happy.
Aside from great pizza, the service at Rapid Fired Pizza is truly outstanding.
Visiting the place is always a pleasant experience, and the best part is that we're in and out within 10 minutes with our scrumptious meal in tow.
Whenever we're in the mood for pizza, Rapid Fired Pizza has become our usual destination.
Yamato West
There's nothing quite like finding a gem of a restaurant in your neighborhood, and I'm happy to say that Yamato West is one of my favorite spots for a delicious Japanese meal.
From the moment I walked in, I knew I was in for a great experience.
My usual order at Yamato West is their spicy tuna roll, friend roll, and tempura shrimp roll.
The friend roll is absolutely divine and has become my must-have dish every time I visit.
My dad, on the other hand, loves to order their shrimp fried rice with a kick – he always asks them to "make it spicy."
He's never been disappointed with the heat level and raves about it every time.
What I also love about this place is that the portions are generous, ensuring you never go hungry.
I always end up with leftovers to enjoy the next day.
LuLu's Diner
I've been visiting LuLu's Diner quite often, and it's one of my favorite spots in town.
The atmosphere is so cozy - it feels like you're in a mom-and-pop diner.
The food is usually quite good, with generous portions that can satisfy even the hungriest patrons.
The omelets and home fries are always a hit.
What I love about this place is that in service or food, it still feels like home.
Milano Café
I adore going to Milano Café whenever I have the chance.
Their website is the perfect place to explore their menu, which is filled with a variety of old-fashioned Italian dishes served in a comfortable setting.
What I love the most about this long-standing trattoria is their authentic and earthy flavors.
The bread they serve is mild but sweet when you spread the butter on it, and the rest of their dishes are just as delicious.
I recall having the Italian appetizer with mozzarella sticks, Portobello sticks, and fried calamari - it was heavenly!
And let's not forget about their Friday special scallops - they were huge and scrumptious!
Plus, the calming atmosphere more than makes up for it.
Whenever I'm able to, I bring my friends and family to Milano Café, and they all share my appreciation for this charming Italian restaurant.
The Met
One of my favorite spots in town has to be The Met, a vibrant tavern located in a historic 1890 building.
I've been there quite a few times, and it never fails to impress.
The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, and the elevated American fare is delicious – I particularly love their chicken marsala and the Tavern Burger.
The drinks are a highlight as well.
I often order the red wine blend while my friends rave about their sangria.
Don't forget to make a reservation if you're bringing a group – they accommodate those too!
Beer Barrel Pizza & Grill
One of my favorite spots to unwind and grab a bite to eat in town is Beer Barrel Pizza & Grill.
The moment you step inside, you're greeted by an excitingly impressive atmosphere that instantly makes you feel welcome.
Their menu offers a wide range of options that never fail to satisfy my cravings.
As someone who needs gluten-free options, I appreciate that they have plenty of choices that cater to my dietary needs.
Of course, the star of the show is their delicious pizza, but the French onion soup is also a must-try.
Another thing I love about Beer Barrel is their extensive selection of libations – from top-shelf drinks to a large draft beer selection, there's something for everyone.
Aside from the fantastic food and drinks, the service at Beer Barrel is always top-notch.
Plus, they have a drive-through beverage store which is perfect for grabbing drinks on the go.
Lombardo's Cafe
Last weekend, I decided to spend my evening at Lombardo's Cafe in Lima, and it was definitely a great decision!
The atmosphere was warm and welcoming, and the food was just amazing.
I heard that the recipes have roots going back 70 years in the area, and I can see why they've been successful all this time.
I tried some of their delicious bar & grill offerings, and the drinks were on point.
While the inside of the place is starting to show its age, it didn't detract from the overall experience.
I remember going there for breakfast back when I lived closer to the location, and the food and service were just as great then as they are now.
If you're in Lima and looking for a cozy spot with amazing food and drinks, make sure to check out Lombardo's Cafe!
318 Restaurant & Bar
I've always been on the lookout for great dining spots in my neighborhood, and 318 Restaurant & Bar definitely didn't disappoint.
I remember visiting on a Tuesday night, and the place wasn't too crowded.
One of the things that stood out to me was the variety on the menu.
It seemed like there were endless options, and I could see myself coming back numerous times to try different dishes.
My friends and I decided to start with the fried pickles appetizer, and I'm glad we did – it was delicious!
I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a tasty bite to start their meal.
As for the main course, I opted for a burger with sidewinder fries as a side.
My friends tried out the shrimp basket and the freight chain chicken sandwich.
Every dish was cooked to perfection and tasted amazing.
I was particularly impressed with the onion rings – they were some of the best I've had.
Also, the branded bun on the burger was a fun and memorable touch.
Final Thoughts
Lima offers a diverse and delicious dining scene that has something to delight every palate.
From the irresistible taste of TJ's Pizza to the delightful dishes at La Charreada, I've enjoyed countless meals and memorable experiences at these local gems.
I truly believe that our community is enriched by these establishments, as they not only serve fantastic food but also bring people together to share unforgettable moments.
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