18 Best Restaurants in Parma, OH

Welcome to the culinary scene of Parma, Ohio - my stomping ground.
It's a place where the aroma of simmering sauces waft through the air, and the clinking of cutlery creates a symphony that is music to a food lover's ears.
Trust me, the rich diversity of our local food establishments is something that surprises visitors and continues to delight those of us who call this place home.
From hearty comfort food that warms you up on a chilly day to exotic dishes that take your taste buds on a global tour, Parma has it all.
It's my pleasure to guide you through this gastronomic journey and share some of the best restaurants in Parma, Ohio, that you definitely shouldn't miss.
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
Tiki Teriyaki & Hot Subs
I've seen many eateries come and go in Parma.
But recently, a new addition has caught my attention, and it's been a delight to my palate - Tiki Teriyaki & Hot Subs.
Unlike the numerous other Asian food joints close by, this one has a certain unique flair to it.
It's not merely a different cuisine, but the overall quality of ingredients sets it apart.
The veggies, for instance, are so fresh and delicious that they could be a satisfying meal for themselves.
The entire experience feels less like grabbing a quick takeout and more reminiscent of enjoying a home-cooked meal.
During my first visit, I decided to try the Chicken Teriyaki with Fried Rice and Veggies.
Not only was the meal scrumptious, the portions were generous as well.
The space itself is bright, clean, and welcoming, with ample seating both indoors and outdoors.
Barabicu Smokehouse
It was one of those typical weekends and I was planning to do something different.
What could be better than trying a new place to eat?
That's when my friends in the neighborhood suggested that I check out Barabicu Smokehouse.
From the moment I walked in, I was hooked.
I was a first-timer there, and they were kind enough to offer me a sampler pack.
I must admit, I was blown away by the quality of their BBQ-smoked meats and their hearty sides.
Every bite was a burst of flavors that I just couldn't get enough of.
But what really caught my attention was their special - it wasn't even on the menu, but the words "BACON SMOKED BACON" reeled me in.
It was tender and delicious, I even ended up ordering a full rack to indulge in!
One of the unexpected highlights of my visit was a complimentary salad that I received.
Prosciutto, fresh mozzarella, blueberries, mandarins, and peppers, all tossed in a balsamic vinaigrette - it was truly a refreshing and delightful surprise.
While I couldn't try their meatloaf due to my gluten sensitivity, I witnessed another patron raving about its taste.
This, for sure, is a testament to the quality of food Barabicu Smokehouse offers.
Jibaro Latin Restaurant
There's no better way to experience a culture than through its food, and Jibaro Latin Restaurant has crafted that experience beautifully.
It's a place I've always found myself returning to, nestled right here in our city.
When I walked in for the first time, I was met with warm smiles and a clean, friendly atmosphere.
It's a great place for families, with high chairs available for the little ones.
I still remember the first meal I savored at Jibaro.
The empanadas were the kind of delicious that leaves you wanting more.
I also tried the dumplings and the tripleta sandwich – each bite was a delightful burst of flavor.
But that was not all.
The chicken in garlic with yellow rice took the meal to a new level of scrumptiousness.
Every subsequent visit has only reaffirmed my admiration for the culinary brilliance displayed here.
And let's not forget their breakfast offerings.
There's nothing like a sumptuous breakfast at Jibaro to kick-start your day.
I can't wait to try it!
One of the things I really appreciate about Jibaro is their attention to service.
My food has always arrived in a timely manner, maintaining the perfect temperature and freshness.
For anyone craving some genuine Puerto Rican flavors, I always recommend they try the pernil and arroz con gandules at Jibaro.
And if you have room, the bread, and the soncocho are not to be missed either.
The authenticity of the cuisine takes me back to the beautiful island right here in our city.
Mizu Sushi
Just down the road in my own neighborhood is a little hidden gem that goes by the name of Mizu Sushi.
You can find more about it on their website here.
I had heard from friends that this was the place to visit for authentic Japanese cuisine.
Admittedly, I was skeptical at first; it's a Chinese-owned Japanese restaurant.
Would it meet up to my expectations?
From the quick serving of my drink from the full bar to the recommendations on what to order, it was clear that customer service was their priority.
The cozy atmosphere only added to the overall charm of this place.
The real test, of course, was the food.
I ordered the sushi and sashimi lunch special that came with a fresh salad and miso soup.
The miso soup, whilst generic, was tasty.
The sushi, on the other hand, was a delightful surprise.
Fresh, bursting with flavors, and presented beautifully on the plate.
But the sashimi was the showstopper; it was simply divine.
I found it refreshing that Mizu Sushi focuses solely on what they do best - sushi.
From the “American Dream” with crab sashimi to the spicy “Mexican roll” with jalapeño and hot sauce, each concoction was unique and delicious.
Whenever I get my sushi cravings now, I know exactly where to go.
Mizu Sushi has not just met my expectations but exceeded them, proving to be the best sushi spot in the city.
John and Loreta Family Restaurant
Ever since John and Loreta Family Restaurant opened, I've found myself visiting quite frequently.
It's a charming little spot that feels just like an old family diner, bringing together a pleasant mix of age groups.
They're always polite, and you can feel the warmth of their welcome each time you step through the door.
Their seating arrangement is quite spacious, but the take-out option is just as good, especially when you're in a hurry.
I've found the service to be consistently efficient.
While every item on their menu is a hit, I personally vouch for the breakfast menu.
One can never go wrong with their options, and their gyro meat is something I find myself craving.
It's tastefully seasoned and surprisingly light.
If you decide to try a gyro for lunch, keep in mind that their serving size is quite generous.
Their portions will leave you very satisfied, so you might want to consider sizing down.
Tony's Family Restaurant
Visiting Tony's Family Restaurant has become something of a ritual for my friends and me.
It's our chosen spot for Monday brunch outings, and let me tell you, it never disappoints.
Their crew runs like a well-oiled machine, continually ensuring that our coffee cups are full and serving us with a warm smile that's comforting and inviting.
Something I appreciate about this place is the lightning-fast service.
The food?
Well, it's nothing short of amazing.
Tony's serves good, home-cooked food, and the portions are generous enough to leave you feeling satisfied.
One of my favorite menu items is their Farmer's Skillet - which they willingly spiced up with jalapenos upon my request instead of green peppers.
If you're a fan of spicy food, I'd definitely recommend giving it a try.
But what really takes the crown for me is their chorizo chicken panini, arguably the best sandwich in the area.
Recently, they introduced a new item - the blueberry muffin French toast.
It might sound like quite the combination, but trust me when I say it's superb.
Seoul Garden Restaurant
Recently, I took a trip to one of the coziest spots in the city, Seoul Garden Restaurant, a pan-Asian eatery situated right here in our neighborhood.
What caught my attention about this place was not only its high ratings but its unique mix of Korean and Japanese cuisine, served in a compact yet comfortable setting.
During my visit, I decided to try their Bibimbap, a traditional Korean dish that I absolutely love.
The taste was a delightful surprise!
The hot stone bowl gave the rice a memorable crispy texture that I adored, and although the meat portion was slightly smaller than in other places I've visited, it was well-cooked and quite satisfying.
The portions are generous, and the taste doesn't disappoint.
I did try their fried dumplings because they looked too good on someone else's table, and they were indeed fantastic.
Napoleon's Pizza
I'm a frequent patron of Napoleon's Pizza, and let me tell you, this place never disappoints.
It's one of those laid-back joints where you can sit back, relax, and enjoy a hearty meal.
Not only do they serve classic pizza but also deep-dish pies, hot subs, salads, and wings - a little something for everyone.
If you ask me about my favorite part of Napoleon's Pizza, it's got to be the crust.
Their unique "Cleveland style" crust is always baked to perfection.
The cheese, oh the cheese!
It's always generously spread - a true delight for cheese lovers like me.
I would recommend trying a mix of their regular and sweet sauce; it's my regular order.
The half-old world pepperoni and half-sausage pizza is an absolute treat.
Their garlic butter pizza is also worth every bite.
It's loaded with lots of bacon and toppings, and the cheese on top is just right.
The flavors blend in wonderfully, making it a savory delight.
Though I haven't been visiting frequently lately, this place always leaves me wanting to come back for more.
And if you're a fan of thin-crust pizza like the New Yorkers, you're in for a treat!
Their regular thick-crust pizza is loaded with flavor, perfectly crispy, and not at all soggy or greasy.
The sauce they use is delightful, and the pepperoni just adds to the taste.
A personal favorite of mine is the Hawaiian pizza.
The ham on it is so delectable, I dare say it's the best Hawaiian pizza I've ever had!
Southside Diner
Every Saturday morning, you'll find me at my favorite spot in the city- Southside Diner.
It's become a tradition, a way to start the weekend right.
It's usually busy, but the service is always warm and friendly, and they keep my coffee mug full to the brim.
The menu brims with old-school breakfast and lunch options.
Sandwiches, waffles, and omelets, they've got the classics down pat.
My go-to orders are the Crazy 8's or the Parma Omelette; trust me, they're worth a try.
What I love about Southside, though, is the unexpected surprise in their menu.
As a seasoned Californian, seeing dishes like barbacoa hash and breakfast tacos being served up brought a smile to my face.
It's a refreshing change of pace, and quite frankly, they do it better than most.
Yes, the prices may be a tad higher than other diners in the area, but for the unique and quality offerings, it's more than worth it.
Rustic Pub
One of my favorite spots to drop by on a slow Sunday afternoon has to be the Rustic Pub in Parma.
Their chic, rustic aesthetics always gives off a cozy vibe that's perfect for a casual meetup over drinks.
Just last week, I treated myself to their black and blue burger for lunch - the patty was cooked well, and the flavors were spot-on!
The fries, on the other hand, were a revelation.
Crisp, golden, and delicious - they fry them perfectly.
Now, the beers at the Rustic Pub are usually top-notch.
But what sets Rustic Pub apart for me is their service - always friendly, swift, and attentive, making every visit a pleasant one.
In fact, I once stopped by while passing through the city late in the evening and decided to try their wings.
Let me tell you; they were spot-on.
Crunchy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and coated with just the right amount of sauce.
Omizu Japanese Restaurant
I've had the pleasure of dining at Omizu Japanese Restaurant several times, and it has quickly become one of my favorite spots to indulge in Japanese cuisine.
The place is impeccably clean and situated in a lovely location, adding to the overall dining experience.
Their 'love boat' dish never fails to impress me with its freshness and deliciousness.
On one occasion, the calamari was a tad undercooked, but the batter was still crispy, so it wasn't a deal-breaker.
I find the overall food quality to be consistently good, making it a perfect place to enjoy a Japanese dinner.
The ambiance at Omizu is peaceful and calming - quite the gem for those seeking a quiet and enjoyable meal.
Their customer service is top-notch, always attentive and pleasant.
However, a word of caution for soy sauce lovers, their version tastes a little off, and it's not just the less sodium option.
But trust me, this is not a reason to stay away, as the food is great even without it!
The clear soup at Omizu is another personal favorite – its strong, flavorful broth is simply irresistible.
My family, especially my son, shares my love for this restaurant.
He's particularly fascinated with the bubbly light-up wall, a unique feature that adds to the cool, calm, and peaceful energy of the place.
Das Schnitzel Haus
My calendar just isn't complete without my biweekly visits to Das Schnitzel Haus!
This unpretentious little corner of the city serves up the most authentic German cuisine.
I don't know about you, but for me, the large portions work perfectly.
It might not be the cheapest place in the city, but trust me, the quality is worth every penny.
The veer and veal are my go-to dishes - they're just flawlessly prepared every single time.
But what truly sets this place apart is not just the food; it's also the impeccable customer service and the cozy interior.
It feels like a home away from home.
The last time I stopped by for a late lunch, around 2 pm, the place was buzzing!
By the time I finished, it had quietened down a bit, but the energy never dies down at Das Schnitzel Haus.
So if you're thinking of dropping by, remember, the lunch rush does last till around 2:45 pm.
Why don't I come here more often?
Well, that's a question I find myself asking every time I visit.
If you ask me, a proper German meal is Jagerschnitzel, spaetzle, and a salad.
And trust me when I say everything is always perfect.
Little Polish Diner
One of the best things about my city is being able to walk down to the Little Polish Diner on a lazy Sunday afternoon.
This unassuming spot is a local gem, serving traditional homestyle Polish dishes that take me straight back to my childhood.
From the moment you step in, you're hit with the aroma of delicious, authentic Polish food.
The conversation about our favorite eateries around the country always sets the tone for a great experience.
Grabbing a to-go bag feels like bringing home a piece of my grandmother's kitchen.
The scent of the stuffed cabbage and pierogi wafting from the bag is a warm, nostalgic hug.
But it's not just about the food.
The prices are affordable, and the portions are always satisfyingly generous.
If you're new to Polish cuisine, I highly recommend starting with the tour of Poland.
It's the perfect introduction, offering a chance to sample a range of dishes.
The pierogis, kielbasa, and stuffed cabbage are all equally flavorful and hearty, making it hard to choose a favorite.
And don't skip the pickle soup!
It might sound unusual if you've never had it before, but trust me; it's a revelation.
A comforting bowl of this soup is just the way to round off your meal.
Leanza's North Coast Pizza & Subs
I've been a patron of Leanza's North Coast Pizza & Subs for years now.
It's more than just a pizza joint to me; it feels like being part of a community where everyone knows everyone else.
It's a place where craftsmanship and passion meet, resulting in a delicious slice of pizza.
There's something in his sauce and dough recipe that sets it apart from the rest.
Let me tell you, the taste of the pizza is so rich and authentic it feels like a journey back to old-world Italy.
I remember ordering a large pizza with light sauce, extra cheese, and pepperoni, along with a steak sandwich.
The aroma of the freshly baked goods still lingers in my memory.
The pizza was made just right - as if they knew exactly what I wanted.
The steak sandwich was to die for, and it arrived piping hot, just out of the oven.
However, getting through to them on the phone can be a bit of a challenge during peak business hours, but trust me, the wait is worth it.
And the prices?
You won't find a better deal elsewhere.
Watami Revolving Sushi Bar
I've never seen anything quite like the Watami Revolving Sushi Bar.
The concept is simple and fun: you sit by the conveyor belt and take your pick from the moving platter of sushi.
I have made it a tradition to bring my family here for special occasions.
My son, who had just turned 10, was fascinated by the revolving sushi bar and excitedly tried a variety of dishes he had never eaten before.
His favorite? The octopus ball!
The food here is always fresh, delicious, and presented in a visually appealing manner.
I find myself impulsively grabbing plates to try new items each time I visit.
The thrill of not knowing exactly what you're picking up off the belt adds to the overall dining experience.
Of course, if you prefer a more predictable meal, you can always order from their extensive menu.
One thing I appreciate about this place is the friendly and prompt service.
Although there might be a bit of a wait during peak hours due to its popularity, trust me, it's worth the time.
One of the highlights of my meal here is always the dessert.
They are made just right - not too sweet and definitely not a mere afterthought.
I particularly enjoy the variety of desserts available on the conveyor belt, making it a sweet ending to a scrumptious meal.
If sushi isn't your thing, don't worry.
There's a range of other Japanese dishes to choose from.
I often mix it up with some rolls, which are always delicious.
My personal favorite is the roll with jalapeños on it - a creative twist that adds a kick of spice.
State Road Pizza
One evening, after having moved recently to Parma, I was hosting a small gathering at my place.
Looking for some local pizza to serve, I decided to give State Road Pizza a try, given the number of positive reviews I'd seen online.
I placed an order for two pizzas and a salad, expecting the food to be equally impressive.
To my surprise, the pizzas were fantastic!
The sauce had the tangy, mouthwatering flavor I expected, the meat toppings were seasoned, and even the cheese left my taste buds satisfied.
On a different occasion, I ordered a meatball sub, jojo fries & mozzarella sticks.
The food was really good & delivered hot.
Tarboosh
It's always a delight to discover a fresh and vibrant food offering in your own neighborhood, and Tarboosh is one such place that adds a dash of flavor to our local culinary scene.
Just around the corner, this eatery found serves an impressive collection of Middle Eastern dishes and fusion fare in a relaxed storefront setting.
Stepping into Tarboosh for the first time, I instantly fell in love with the clean and inviting atmosphere of the place.
The service was warm and friendly, which made the overall dining experience even more enjoyable.
I had the pleasure of trying their falafel, which was served without sauce, contrary to their online representation.
The lack of sauce didn't hinder the enjoyment as the falafel was perfectly crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, a testament to the freshness of their ingredients.
What I especially appreciate about this place is the sheer variety of their menu.
It has something for everyone, including those who might not be in the mood for Mediterranean cuisine.
One time, a friend of mine who came along for lunch opted for a hamburger, and he was pleasantly surprised at its quality.
However, the prices at Tarboosh can be a bit steep.
I remember spending around 50 dollars for two burritos and six pieces of falafel, which seemed a bit excessive.
Despite this, I believe the quality and freshness of the food justify the price tag.
In my opinion, Tarboosh is a healthier dining option in this part of the city.
Whether you're looking for traditional Middle Eastern entrees or fusion fare, this place won't disappoint.
It's a delightful addition to our local food scene that adds a nice touch of diversity.
Final Thoughts
Living in Parma, I've eaten my way across much of this city, and I can confidently say that whether you're a sushi lover, a barbeque enthusiast, or a fan of good old-fashioned diner cuisine, you're sure to find a bite that hits the spot.
From the hearty meals at Tony's Family Restaurant and Southside Diner to the delectable sushi at Mizu and Omizu and the tantalizing flavors of Jibaro Latin Restaurant and Tarboosh, the culinary diversity of Parma is truly impressive.
So next time you're in the city, don't just pass through - take some time to savor the flavors that make Parma a not-to-miss culinary destination.