20 Best Restaurants in New Philadelphia, OH
Living in the charming city of New Philadelphia, Ohio, has its own unique advantages.
One of those is the delightful dining scene that this city boasts.
From mouth-watering barbecued ribs and fresh, gourmet pizzas to palate-pleasing seafood and delectable desserts, we have it all here.
Whether you're visiting for the first time, have just moved here, or, like me, have called this place home for years, the best restaurants in New Philadelphia, Ohio, are guaranteed to impress.
So prepare to embark on a gastronomic adventure as I share my personal favorite places to eat in our quaint city.
Our aim is not just to guide you to popular eateries but to encourage you to venture out and experience the city's diverse culinary landscape for yourself
Sweet Rain BBQ
There's something magical about the smell of smoky barbeque wafting through the air while sitting at the local airport, watching the planes come and go.
That's exactly what you get when you visit Sweet Rain BBQ.
It's a unique blend of good food and good vibes that has an irresistible charm.
The service is always top-notch, with that friendly, accommodating approach that makes you feel at home.
I've had the chance to try quite a few dishes from this place, and I can confidently say that it's been a delight each time.
The brisket and smoked turkey are to die for - savory, tender, and cooked to perfection.
The BBQ sauce is a standout, too, simple yet delicious, something that you'd wish you could have by the glass.
It's not just about the meat here.
From the homemade pickles and onions to the incredibly tasty cole slaw, every part of the meal adds to the delightful experience.
I've not managed to try everything on the menu just yet.
But given the quality of what I've had so far, I'm sure it'll only be just as impressive.
Krua Khun Pim
The moment I decided to venture out and break the monotony of eating the same old food, my taste buds took me to this hidden gem in town, Krua Khun Pim.
Who would have thought that one could find such authentic Thai cuisine in the heart of New Phila?
My friend and I, on a casual evening, decided to visit this place, and oh boy, were we in for a treat!
The moment we set foot inside Krua Khun Pim, the aromatic wafts of Thai spices made us drool.
I decided to order Pad Ka Pow, and my friend opted for the classic Pad Thai.
I must say, it was simply unbelievable, arguably the best Thai food we had EVER tasted.
The ingredients were fresh, the spice level was just right, and the portion sizes were perfectly hearty.
The menu might seem a bit daunting at first, especially if you're new to Thai cuisine.
But don't worry; a little research beforehand will go a long way.
Trust me, any dish you order here will surely be a delight.
What I love about Pim's food is that it brings a breath of fresh air to our local food scene, offering a wonderful escape from the usual bar foods and pizzas.
It's perfect for those days when you don't feel like cooking but crave something fresh and delicious.
Just recently, we had another feast at Krua Khun Pim, and we ordered Pla Tod Sam Rot, Drunken Noodle with chicken, Siam Sesame Sirloin (that week's special), and of course, an order of Crab Rangoon.
Trust me when I say the food looked exactly like you'd expect, and the flavors were simply out of this world.
Let's not forget about their large portions, friendly service, and reasonable prices.
Granato's Pizza
My heart does a little happy dance every time I think of Granato's Pizza.
It's the kind of place that makes you feel at home right from the first bite, and it's perfectly nestled in our very own neighborhood.
Trust me when I tell you, there's something magical about their super sweet sauce, and their ingredients are world-class.
It's inexplicable, but the taste of their pizza is something that words fail to justify.
I kid you not; living off this pizza doesn't sound like a bad idea.
It's that good!
That's not to say everything's perfect.
There've been moments when I felt the toppings on my steak subs were a bit skimpy.
I remember this one time I ordered a couple of 6" subs and was disheartened at the sight of 12 little tiny squares of onion and skimpy cheese.
It felt as though the generosity they pour into their pizza somehow falls short when it comes to subs.
What I can say is that I hope they stay grounded in their roots and don't let success get to their head.
It's their quality food and warm service that has won the hearts of many, including mine, and I hope they never lose sight of it.
Uncle Primo's
There's nothing like walking into Uncle Primo's after a long day.
From the moment you walk in, you're greeted with the aroma of sizzling steaks, fresh seafood, and Italian staples like lasagna and veal parmigiana.
It's a comforting scent that speaks of home-cooking and high-quality cuisine.
Even for someone who's not a fan of seafood or fish, I must admit the fish here is outstanding, perfectly cooked, and oh-so tasty.
And their salads?
Simply to die for!
Uncle Primo's offers an atmosphere that is hard to come by these days.
The place has a simple, welcoming space that makes you feel right at home.
And for the quality of food and the happiness it brings, the prices are incredibly reasonable.
But it doesn't stop at the amazing food and atmosphere; the restaurant's service is always top-notch.
And then there are the hush puppies; I cannot leave without mentioning them.
Served with a delightful sauce, they are a must-try, whether you're a local resident or a visitor passing through.
Hunt Brothers Pizza
There is something unusually satisfying about biting into a slice of pizza from Hunt Brothers.
Anyone who's familiar with this area knows what I'm talking about - the convenience store-based pizza chain Hunt Brothers Pizza tucked away in our small town.
This isn't just your typical gas station food.
No, it's a gem that's served with a genuine smile, something you rarely see in the hustle and bustle of other fast-food chains.
And the food?
Oh, the food is always fresh, at least if you're like me, who pops in at all hours of the day.
I've had their pizza for dinner more times than I can count.
The aroma of fresh dough and melting cheese that fills the air when you walk in is simply irresistible.
I remember one particular evening this week - I ordered my usual, a unique creation of my own.
As I took my first bite, the explosion of flavors was amazing, just as it always is.
The leftovers were almost as good when warmed up the next day, a testament to the quality of their ingredients.
And let's not forget about their wings - they're a tangy, savory treat that compliments their pizza perfectly.
Penso's Pizza
Have you ever had one of those nights when nothing but pizza would do?
That's how I decided to check out Pen's Pizza, a local favorite that I'd been hearing so much about lately.
Penso's Pizza, with its delectable menu, has quickly become a regular haunt for me and my family.
Now, I'm not exaggerating when I say that Penso's serves up the best pizza in Phila.
One bite of their thin-crust pizza, and I was hooked.
It was incredibly flavorful, with a perfect balance of toppings and sauce.
You can tell they don't skimp out on the good stuff.
It was as if they prepared it, knowing they were going to eat it themselves.
And that level of care?
It's hard to come by these days.
Another thing that sets Penso's apart is their amazing little pepperonis that get crispy.
Combined with their chewy crust, it's a pizza experience unlike any other.
It's no wonder Penso's has become a family favorite.
Dee's Restaurant
Every now and then, I like to treat myself to breakfast at Dee's Restaurant.
The comfort of this local spot in New Philadelphia is almost tangible.
Even when the place is crowded, the vibe remains cozy and welcoming.
The food is basic breakfast fare – nothing that'll knock your socks off, but decent enough.
I mean, I've had the Diablo Hash with sourdough toast and found it tasty and served piping hot.
The spice level won't challenge anyone with a palate attuned to heat, but it's comparable to something like Wendy's spicy chicken sandwich.
The toast, though, could use a bit more tang.
But the real star of the show at Dee's is the French toast and country omelet.
Imagine a baguette, perfectly soaked and cooked to golden-brown perfection.
Now pair that with essentially a Western omelet drenched in gravy.
It's an indulgence, but one that's completely worth it.
And don't even get me started on their coffee – it could definitely use improvement, but it's drinkable.
The service is usually the highlight of my visits to Dee's.
Everyone is so pleasant; it adds to the overall experience.
The restaurant maintains a good level of cleanliness, which shouldn't be overlooked.
Tienda Esmeralda
When you walk into Tienda Esmeralda, there's an immediate sense of being transported to a colorful, vibrant market somewhere in Guatemala.
The aroma of spices and the sound of lively Latin music fills the air, setting the stage for an authentic Guatemalan experience right here at home.
But it's the food that truly takes center stage.
They serve the best tacos I've ever tasted.
Each bite is a medley of flavors, a perfect blend of meat, cheese, and a secret salsa that I've been trying to crack for months.
Trust me when I say you won't find better tacos in the area.
My personal favorite?
Their beef tacos, perfectly seasoned and served with a side of their homemade guacamole – it’s truly a treat for the taste buds.
And the shopping experience is just as unforgettable.
This store has everything you could possibly need from Guatemala.
From traditional clothing, artisanal crafts to imported spices, it's a treasure trove of unique finds.
I often find myself picking up a few items for my home to add a bit of that Guatemalan charm.
The crowning jewel, though, is their impeccable service.
It's almost like walking into a friend's house, a friend who happens to cook the best Guatemalan food in town.
Visiting Tienda Esmeralda is like embarking on a mini-vacation.
A getaway to Guatemala, without ever leaving town.
South Philly Pizza
There's no denying the charm of South Philly Pizza, a place that has become a cornerstone in our community's food scene.
I've been living here for the better part of a decade, and I can confidently say that no visit to our area is complete without giving their infamous Sausage & Pepperoni pizza a try.
But what sets South Philly Pizza apart isn't just their finger-licking good pizzas which, by the way, are the only ones my children have ever liked.
It's also about the local ambiance that comes with an old, rustic building.
Now, don't get me wrong.
The place does have a certain smell of dampness, a testament to its age.
It almost adds to the old-school pizza shop vibe of it.
Mary Zifer's Pizza
What's a weekend without a visit to Mary Zifer's Pizza in New Philly?
Their pizza is not just food; it's an experience, one that keeps me coming back week after week.
The secret of Mary Zifer's lies in its crust- beautifully golden and perfectly crunchy.
But, of course, the magic isn't complete without the cheese.
They usually top their pizzas with Colby cheese, a bit unconventional but absolutely delightful.
However, if you're a fan of the classic mozzarella, they can switch it up for you, no problem.
One of my absolute favorites is their cheesy bread, a comforting delicacy that fills your mouth with melting goodness.
It's a must-try!
As I walk up to the counter, the familiar smell of baking bread and melting cheese fills the air, an immediate reminder of why it's worth every penny, every calorie.
It's important to remember that they only accept cash or check, a quirk that adds more charm to the whole experience.
No credit cards, no fancy tech, just good old-fashioned pizza.
It's a pickup-only place, so you get to carry the warmth of their heavenly pizza all the way back home.
El San Jose Mexican Restaurant
There's something undeniably inviting about the vibrant, down-to-earth ambiance of El San Jose Mexican Restaurant.
The moment I walk in, the aroma of Mexican spices envelops me, and the sight of those cool carved chairs and stylish booths scream 'fun.'
Go for lunch, and be prepared for a feast.
The fajitas are not for the faint-hearted and should probably come with a 'danger - deliciously excessive portion' warning.
Not that I'm complaining - I love having enough for dinner too.
And have I mentioned the prices?
Quite the steal if you ask me.
Plus, if you're a cash carrier, they'll even give you a discount.
A real win-win.
Of course, it's not just about the food.
The service here is worth mentioning too.
Prompt, friendly, and efficient, just as you'd hope for.
And yes, there are free nachos and salsa.
That's right - free.
As in complimentary.
As in, sit down, order a drink, and munch away on some crunchy deliciousness while you peruse the menu.
Michael's Restaurant
Every city has that one diner, the one where breakfast is a ritual, morning chatter fills the air, and the coffee is always hot.
In our town, that place is Michael's Restaurant.
One fine morning, I decided to drop in and find out if their American-style breakfast was as classic as they claimed.
Stepping inside, the laid-back atmosphere instantly eased my morning blues.
Despite the lack of crowd, the vibes were warm, a testament to the restaurant's popularity among locals.
My order?
The classic: biscuits with sausage gravy, and a side of salad to keep things balanced.
They tasted like they were from a can, and the sausage gravy, sadly, had no flavor whatsoever.
It wasn't the start of the morning I had envisioned.
The salad, on the other hand, was a different story.
The freshness was evident in every bite, and the breakfast otherwise was decent.
What's Cooking Cafe
I've always been a salad person, and let me tell you, none come close to the one I had at What's Cooking Cafe.
It was honestly the best salad I've ever eaten, a culinary delight that had my taste buds dancing with joy!
The place was not just about good food; it was also impeccably clean and very welcoming.
What's Cooking Cafe is a family-owned place, and the pride they take in their establishment is evident in every single detail.
Their Southwest chicken wrap is another dish that had me hooked.
It was perfect, with just the right amount of spicy kick from the sauce.
They have limited hours of operation, so it's always a good idea to check their website before planning a visit.
On another visit with my partner, we found the place to be as cute and sparkly clean as ever.
The menu was diverse, with reasonable prices, and the food was to die for.
My partner gave a thumbs-up to their breakfast tacos while I relished a turkey ranch wrap.
Other Restaurants Nearby
Mr.Hibachi Japanese Grill (Dover)
If you're looking for a satisfying meal that can fill you up without burning a hole in your pocket, look no further than Mr.Hibachi Japanese Grill.
Having been my first visit, I decided to place an online order for pick up.
The process was seamless, quick, and hassle-free.
The surprises started with the portion size - trust me, their chicken fried rice could easily feed two.
But what's quantity without quality, right?
Thankfully, Mr. Hibachi strikes a perfect balance between the two.
The taste was authentic, and the flavors were spot on.
The egg rolls were a delightful bonus - I ordered two but ended up getting twice the number.
What really added to the charm of the place was the team.
In spite of making a last-minute pick-up, they welcomed me with genuine smiles and warm greetings.
In an age where good customer service seems to be a rare find, it was refreshing to see their friendly and dedicated approach.
The food was dished out quickly and was nothing short of delicious.
And yes, they serve takeout orders in styrofoam containers, but don't let that fool you.
The experience remains unscathed.
My recommendation?
The chicken hibachi and egg rolls.
El Hefe (Dover)
There's a spot in the city that I frequent, not necessarily for its exterior appeal but for the authentic Italian cuisine it dishes out.
It's called El Hefe.
Nestled amidst the hustle and bustle of our city, El Hefe often serves as my haven of relaxation and food indulgence.
My first encounter with El Hefe was a pleasant surprise.
The place was clean and well-kept, with a sports bar on one side.
I remember ordering chicken marsala that day - a dish whose taste still lingers in my mind.
It was just so perfectly cooked and flavored.
The kids aren't left out either; they have a separate menu for them, which is a relief for a parent like me.
While the food here can be described as average, it's the portion size that wins you over.
Definitely more than enough to satisfy a hungry soul!
Plus, it's not too heavy on the pocket, either.
But it's their Ribeye that truly steals the show!
Cooked to perfection, it's a dish I find myself craving often.
Limby's Restaurant (Dover)
Let me tell you about my go-to spot in town, Limby's Restaurant.
It's the kind of place that makes you feel right at home from the moment you step through the door.
You're greeted by a crowd of fun-loving, hard-working, family-oriented folks.
An air of professionalism pervades the establishment, and it's spotless inside and out.
The food at Limby's is nothing short of excellent.
The steak burger and french fries, piping hot right off the grill, are a world away from the typical fare you'd expect at fast food joints.
That's not to say that the atmosphere is pristine; it's a tad on the dingy side.
But for me, that's part of its charm.
Sammy Sue's BBQ (Dover)
You know that feeling when you walk into a place, and it just speaks to you?
That's exactly what I felt when I first walked into Sammy Sue's BBQ.
It might not be the fanciest place in town, but it's got a heart.
The rustic charm, the buzz of happy customers, the sizzling sounds from the kitchen - it all comes together to create a warm, inviting atmosphere.
I've been here a few times, and the service has remained consistently good.
Their BBQ wings with ranch are a delight, and their beans always hit the spot.
The boneless wings and the baked sweet potato are also worth a mention.
The variety in their menu means there's always something for everyone, and it's fun trying out different things each time I visit.
Mindy's Diner (Dover)
Nothing quite compares to a weekend morning at Mindy's Diner.
As someone who frequented this place, I can attest to its charm and warmth.
It's one of those spots where when your usual hangout is crowded, you end up here and discover a new favorite.
The vibe is casual and relaxed, the kind of place where you can take a breath, enjoy your coffee, and be thankful for the simple pleasures of life.
Their breakfast menu is a delightful treat to kick-start your day.
But it's not just the breakfast.
The homestyle cooking for lunch and dinner is equally worth every bite.
The club sandwich here is my personal recommendation.
Not your ordinary sandwich, it's layered with sliced ham and not just deli meat, making every bite a savory symphony.
This place is all about comfort on a plate.
Mexican Restaurant Piña Fajita (Dover)
Just the other day, I found myself in need of a hearty meal and stumbled upon the newly-established Mexican Restaurant Piña Fajita on a late Thursday evening.
Even though the place was nearly deserted, the warm and welcoming atmosphere quickly drew me in.
The food selection was impressive; not your run-of-the-mill Mexican fare.
Exotic dishes like Camarones le creme caught my eye, but I opted for something more unique - the Cowboy burrito.
The Cowboy burrito - a surprising fusion of Mexican and BBQ flavors - turned out to be an excellent choice.
Each bite was a flavorful experience, making me fall in love with the authenticity of the dish.
The food portions were generous, and I even treated myself to a delightful dessert, a warmed strawberry cheesecake was the perfect ending to my meal.
Katana Japanese Restaurant Sushi&Hibachi (Dover)
If you're in the mood for sushi, look no further than Katana Japanese Restaurant Sushi&Hibachi.
I've found the sushi here to be top-notch!
The interior is an elegant and modern interpretation of traditional Japanese aesthetics, providing a cozy ambiance that perfectly complements the meal.
Each dish is served with a side of soup and salad for a well-rounded culinary experience.
I highly recommend trying the Golden Dream Roll and the Hot Lava Cake while they're still on the menu.
The lava cake, though not exactly hot, was a decadent delight.
However, one thing to note is that the menu constantly evolves; they recently removed these two items from their offerings.
Like most Japanese restaurants, Katana pays a lot of attention to its presentation.
Each dish is served with a decorative leaf.
If you're up for something different, give their fried ice cream a shot!
While it was just okay, in my opinion, you might find it intriguing.
Despite my frequent visits, a while had passed since my last dinner there.
I was glad to find that the quality of the food had not changed.
Final Thoughts
I have to say, the restaurant scene in New Philadelphia, Ohio, is truly remarkable.
There's something here for everyone, no matter what your preferences are.
With so many incredible options, it's no wonder why I love calling this place home.
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