Ohio’s culinary landscape is as diverse as its geography, offering a smorgasbord of flavors that have become synonymous with the Buckeye State. From hearty comfort foods to sweet treats, Ohio’s famous dishes reflect its rich cultural heritage and agricultural bounty. Some of Ohio’s most iconic foods include Cincinnati chili, buckeye candies, and pierogies.
The Thurman Cafe in Columbus serves up a legendary burger that has garnered national attention. Known as the Thurmanator, this massive sandwich features two 12-ounce beef patties stacked with an array of toppings, embodying Ohio’s reputation for generous portions and bold flavors. Another beloved Ohio creation is Johnny Marzetti, a casserole that has been warming hearts and stomachs since the early 20th century.
Ohio’s sweet tooth is satisfied by the ubiquitous buckeye candies, peanut butter balls dipped in chocolate to resemble the nuts of the state tree. These treats, along with other Ohio specialties like Polish Boys from Cleveland and hot browns, showcase the state’s culinary creativity and its ability to blend various influences into uniquely Ohioan dishes.
Iconic Ohio Dishes
Ohio’s culinary landscape boasts a diverse array of iconic dishes that reflect the state’s cultural heritage and regional influences. From hearty comfort foods to unique local specialties, these dishes have become synonymous with Ohio’s food scene.
Cincinnati Chili
Cincinnati Chili is a distinctive regional style of chili con carne. It’s characterized by its unique blend of spices, which often includes cinnamon, allspice, and chocolate. The chili is typically served over spaghetti and topped with cheese, onions, and beans.
This dish is usually ordered by “ways” – from two-way (chili and spaghetti) up to five-way (chili, spaghetti, cheese, onions, and beans). Cincinnati Chili has gained national recognition and is now served in restaurants across the country.
Local chains like Skyline Chili and Gold Star Chili have popularized this dish. Many Cincinnati residents have strong opinions on which chain serves the best version.
Polish Boy
The Polish Boy is a Cleveland specialty that combines several comfort food elements into one hearty sandwich. It consists of a grilled kielbasa sausage placed in a bun and topped with french fries, coleslaw, and barbecue sauce.
This sandwich originated in the 1940s and has been a staple of Cleveland’s food scene ever since. It’s often found at local barbecue joints, food trucks, and corner stores throughout the city.
The Polish Boy’s combination of flavors and textures – spicy sausage, crispy fries, creamy coleslaw, and tangy barbecue sauce – make it a beloved local favorite.
Goetta
Goetta is a breakfast sausage of German-American origin, popular in the Cincinnati area. It’s made from ground meat (usually pork, sometimes mixed with beef), pin-head oats, and spices.
The mixture is formed into small loaves, sliced, and fried until crispy on the outside. Goetta is often served as a breakfast side dish, but it’s also used in sandwiches and as a pizza topping.
This dish reflects Cincinnati’s strong German heritage. Annual festivals like “Goettafest” celebrate this unique food, attracting thousands of visitors each year.
Sauerkraut Balls
Sauerkraut Balls are a popular appetizer in Northeast Ohio, particularly in Akron. These bite-sized snacks consist of sauerkraut, ham, and cream cheese, rolled into balls, breaded, and deep-fried.
The origin of Sauerkraut Balls is attributed to the Bavarian restaurant in Akron in the 1950s. They quickly became a local favorite and spread throughout the region.
These crispy, tangy bites are often served as bar snacks or appetizers. They’re particularly popular during holidays and special events in Ohio.
Barberton Chicken
Barberton Chicken, also known as “Serbian Fried Chicken,” is a specialty of Barberton, Ohio. It’s characterized by its unique preparation method and accompanying sides.
The chicken is fried in lard, giving it a distinctive crispy texture. It’s typically served with a hot rice and tomato-based sauce, often called “hot sauce,” despite not being spicy.
Traditional sides include coleslaw and “jo-jo” potatoes – thick-cut potato wedges. This style of chicken originated with Serbian immigrants in the 1930s and remains popular in northeast Ohio.
Johnny Marzetti
Johnny Marzetti is a pasta casserole that originated in Columbus, Ohio. It consists of ground beef, tomato sauce, cheese, and pasta, often with added vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers.
The dish was reportedly created in the 1920s by Teresa Marzetti at her Columbus restaurant. It became popular in school cafeterias across Ohio and the Midwest.
Johnny Marzetti is comfort food at its finest – hearty, filling, and easy to make in large quantities. It’s still a common dish at potlucks and family gatherings in Ohio.
Lake Erie Perch
Lake Erie Perch is a prized fish in Ohio’s culinary scene, particularly in coastal areas along Lake Erie. The fish is known for its mild, sweet flavor and delicate texture.
Typically, Lake Erie Perch is lightly breaded and fried, served with lemon wedges and tartar sauce. It’s often accompanied by coleslaw and french fries or potato pancakes.
Many lakeside restaurants in northern Ohio feature Lake Erie Perch as a specialty. The dish showcases the state’s connection to the Great Lakes and its freshwater fishing industry.
Ohio Snacks and Sweets
Ohio boasts a variety of sweet treats and snacks that have gained popularity both locally and nationally. From chocolate-peanut butter confections to unique pies and beloved ice cream brands, the Buckeye State offers delectable options for dessert lovers.
Buckeye Candy
Buckeye candy is Ohio’s signature sweet treat, named after the state tree. These bite-sized confections feature a creamy peanut butter center partially dipped in chocolate, resembling the nuts of the buckeye tree.
Homemade buckeyes are a holiday tradition in many Ohio households. The recipe typically includes peanut butter, powdered sugar, and butter for the filling, with melted chocolate for coating.
Local candy shops and bakeries across Ohio offer their own versions of buckeyes. Some add unique twists, like sea salt or flavored chocolate coatings.
Shaker Lemon Pie
Shaker lemon pie is a tangy, sweet dessert with roots in Ohio’s Shaker communities. This pie uses whole lemons, including the rind, creating a bold citrus flavor.
The recipe calls for thinly sliced lemons macerated in sugar overnight. This process softens the rind and balances the tartness. The lemon mixture is then combined with eggs and baked in a flaky pie crust.
Shaker lemon pie can be found in bakeries and restaurants throughout Ohio, especially in areas with historical Shaker influence.
Klondike Ice Cream Bar
The Klondike bar, a square ice cream treat coated in chocolate, originated in Mansfield, Ohio in the early 1920s. Created by the Isaly Dairy Company, it quickly became a popular frozen dessert.
The classic Klondike bar features vanilla ice cream enrobed in a crisp chocolate shell. Over the years, new flavors and variations have been introduced, including mint chocolate chip, Oreo, and Reese’s.
While Klondike bars are now sold nationwide, they remain a point of pride for Ohio residents.
Graeter’s Ice Cream
Graeter’s Ice Cream, founded in Cincinnati in 1870, is known for its rich, creamy texture and unique production method. The company uses a French Pot process, making ice cream in small batches.
Signature flavors include Black Raspberry Chocolate Chip, featuring large chocolate chunks. Seasonal offerings like Pumpkin and Peach rotate throughout the year.
Graeter’s has expanded beyond Ohio but maintains its headquarters in Cincinnati. Many Ohioans consider it a local treasure and an essential part of summer traditions.
Culinary Influences and Fusion
Ohio’s cuisine reflects a diverse blend of cultural influences, resulting in unique fusion dishes that showcase the state’s culinary heritage. Immigrant communities have left their mark on Ohio’s food landscape, creating a rich tapestry of flavors and traditions.
Pierogies and Kielbasa
Pierogies and kielbasa represent the strong Eastern European influence in Ohio’s cuisine. These Polish staples have become beloved comfort foods across the state. Pierogies, dumplings filled with potato, cheese, or sauerkraut, are often pan-fried and served with caramelized onions. Local restaurants and church festivals offer homemade versions that rival those found in Poland.
Kielbasa, a flavorful smoked sausage, is enjoyed grilled, in sandwiches, or as part of hearty dinner plates. Many Ohio butcher shops still make kielbasa using traditional family recipes. The combination of pierogies and kielbasa creates a satisfying meal that pays homage to Ohio’s immigrant roots.
Tony Packo’s Hungarian Hot Dog
Tony Packo’s, a Toledo institution since 1932, introduced Ohioans to the Hungarian hot dog. This unique creation features a spicy all-beef sausage topped with the restaurant’s signature chili sauce, mustard, and onions. The hot dog is served on a soft bun and often accompanied by pickles and peppers.
Tony Packo’s gained national fame when it was mentioned multiple times on the TV show MAS*H. Today, visitors can enjoy the original hot dog alongside other Hungarian-inspired dishes like stuffed cabbage and chicken paprikash. The restaurant’s walls are adorned with signed hot dog buns from celebrities, adding to its quirky charm.
Amish Country Foods
Ohio’s Amish Country, centered in Holmes County, offers a taste of traditional, home-style cooking. Amish cuisine emphasizes simplicity and locally sourced ingredients. Popular dishes include:
- Broasted chicken
- Homemade noodles
- Shoofly pie
- Amish peanut butter spread
Visitors to Amish Country can enjoy family-style meals at local restaurants or purchase fresh baked goods and preserves from roadside stands. Many Amish families open their homes for authentic dining experiences, allowing guests to savor hearty, made-from-scratch meals. The region’s commitment to traditional cooking methods and recipes provides a unique culinary experience that reflects Ohio’s rural heritage.
Food Innovation and Unique Creations
Ohio’s culinary scene boasts creative dishes that push boundaries and delight taste buds. Inventive chefs and local eateries have crafted signature items that have gained fame far beyond state lines.
The Thurmanator Burger
The Thurmanator stands as a colossal creation from Thurman Cafe in Columbus. This towering burger features two 12-ounce patties, bacon, cheddar, American cheese, ham, sautéed mushrooms and onions, lettuce, tomato, pickle, and mayo.
Weighing in at over 3 pounds, it challenges even the heartiest appetites. The Thurmanator has been featured on various food shows and attracts burger enthusiasts from across the country.
Thurman Cafe’s original Thurman Burger serves as the foundation for this monstrous meal. Its popularity led to the creation of its larger cousin, cementing the cafe’s reputation for outrageous burgers.
Serbian Fried Chicken
Barberton, Ohio, is home to a unique style of fried chicken with Serbian roots. This crispy delicacy differs from traditional Southern fried chicken in its preparation and seasoning.
The chicken is deep-fried in lard, resulting in an extra-crispy exterior. It’s typically served with a side of rice and a spicy tomato-based sauce called “hot sauce.”
Local establishments like Belgrade Gardens and White House Chicken have been serving this specialty for decades. The dish reflects the influence of Serbian immigrants who settled in the area in the early 20th century.
Cheese Coneys
Cincinnati’s cheese coneys offer a distinctive twist on the classic hot dog. These treats feature a hot dog in a steamed bun, topped with Cincinnati-style chili, diced onions, and a mound of shredded cheddar cheese.
The chili used is milder and sweeter than traditional varieties, often containing cinnamon and chocolate. This unique flavor profile sets cheese coneys apart from hot dogs found in other regions.
Popular spots like Skyline Chili and Gold Star Chili serve thousands of these beloved coneys daily. The dish has become a symbol of Cincinnati’s culinary identity and a must-try for visitors.
Local Food Culture and Ambiance
Ohio’s culinary landscape reflects its diverse heritage and regional influences. The Buckeye State offers a rich tapestry of flavors and dining experiences that showcase its unique food culture.
Regional Specialties
Cincinnati-style chili stands out as a signature dish in Ohio. This unique chili variant typically features a thin, meaty sauce seasoned with cinnamon and chocolate, served over spaghetti and topped with cheese. It’s often enjoyed in “ways” – two-way (chili and spaghetti), three-way (adding cheese), four-way (with onions), or five-way (with beans).
The Thurmanator burger, a Columbus favorite, exemplifies Ohio’s penchant for hearty portions. This massive burger stacks multiple beef patties, various cheeses, and an array of toppings.
Buckeyes, chocolate-dipped peanut butter balls resembling the nuts of Ohio’s state tree, represent a beloved sweet treat across the state.
Local Dining Experiences
Ohio’s food scene thrives in both urban and rural settings. In cities like Cleveland and Columbus, trendy food halls offer diverse culinary options under one roof. These spaces often showcase local artisans and chefs, providing a lively atmosphere for food enthusiasts.
Small-town diners and family-owned restaurants dot the state, serving comfort foods and regional specialties. Many of these establishments have been community fixtures for generations, offering a glimpse into Ohio’s culinary traditions.
Farm-to-table restaurants have gained popularity, highlighting Ohio’s agricultural bounty. These eateries often feature seasonal menus that showcase locally sourced ingredients, connecting diners with the state’s farming heritage.
Ohio’s Agricultural Bounty
Ohio’s fertile soil and favorable climate nurture a diverse array of crops and products. The state’s agricultural heritage shines through unique fruits and artisanal preserves that have become local favorites.
Pawpaws
Pawpaws, often called “Ohio’s forgotten fruit,” thrive in the state’s forests and orchards. This native North American fruit boasts a custardy texture and tropical flavor reminiscent of banana and mango. Ohio celebrates its pawpaw heritage with the annual Ohio Pawpaw Festival in Albany.
Pawpaws grow wild throughout southern Ohio and are cultivated by small-scale farmers. The fruit ripens in late summer and early fall, offering a short but sweet harvest season. Many Ohioans enjoy pawpaws fresh, while others use them in ice cream, baked goods, and even craft beer.
Kaiser Pickles
Kaiser Pickles, a beloved Ohio brand, has been crafting crisp, flavorful pickles since 1923. Based in Fremont, the company uses locally grown cucumbers and a time-honored recipe. Their signature dill pickles are a staple at picnics and barbecues across the state.
The brand offers various pickle styles, including spears, chips, and whole pickles. Kaiser’s commitment to quality and tradition has earned them a loyal following. Many Ohio restaurants feature Kaiser Pickles on their menus, showcasing the state’s pride in local products.
Ohio Food Events and Festivals
Ohio hosts numerous food festivals that celebrate its diverse culinary heritage. These events attract food lovers from across the state and beyond, showcasing local specialties and regional favorites.
The Columbus Jazz & Rib Fest is one of Ohio’s largest food festivals. Held in the Arena District and McFerson Commons, it draws over 200,000 visitors annually. The event features 23 award-winning rib vendors from across North America, offering a variety of mouthwatering barbecue.
In Troy, the annual Strawberry Festival pays homage to the region’s agricultural roots. Visitors can indulge in strawberry-themed treats and enjoy local entertainment.
The Ohio State Fair, while not exclusively a food event, is renowned for its culinary offerings. With over 900,000 attendees each year, it showcases a wide array of Ohio’s favorite foods and agricultural products.
New Straitsville hosts the unique Moonshine Festival, celebrating the area’s bootlegging history. The event features moonshine-inspired dishes, local history displays, and entertainment.
Food enthusiasts can also explore smaller, specialized events across the state. These include:
- Bacon festivals
- Ice cream socials
- Apple butter festivals
- Maple syrup celebrations
These events not only satisfy taste buds but also provide insight into Ohio’s rich food culture and traditions.
