The buzz around Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s recent visit to Northeast Ohio has foodies wondering: where else should this high-profile couple dine if they return to the akron area? After their reported stop at JoJo’s Italian American Steak Bar in Chagrin Falls, the focus shifts south to the vibrant culinary scene Akron and its surrounding communities offer. local food experts have weighed in, highlighting standout establishments that capture the region’s unique flavor.
Drawing inspiration from the Beacon Journal’s esteemed “Local Flavors of 2024” selections, here are some top picks that promise memorable dining experiences fit for A-list palates. These restaurants represent a diverse range of cuisines and styles, showcasing the best of what the Akron area has to offer.
Why Akron’s Food Scene is Ready for A-Listers
Akron and its nearby cities boast a surprisingly rich and diverse food landscape. From classic drive-ins serving up nostalgic burgers to modern bistros and authentic international flavors, the options are plentiful. Local chefs and restaurateurs are dedicated to quality, often using fresh ingredients and putting unique spins on traditional dishes. This commitment to culinary excellence makes the Akron area a fantastic destination for any food lover, including those with celebrity status. The variety ensures that there’s something to satisfy almost any craving or dining preference. Exploring these local gems offers a genuine taste of the community.
Top Dining Destinations for Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce
Based on expert local recommendations and acclaimed reviews, these eight Akron-area restaurants stand out as must-try destinations. They offer everything from fine dining experiences to casual, beloved community staples. Each spot brings something unique to the table, reflecting the passion and talent within the region’s food scene.
Spicy Sombreros (Stow)
For incredible Mexican cuisine, Spicy Sombreros in Stow is a top contender. This popular grill features an extensive menu. You can find everything from classic enchiladas and burritos to creative house specials. Seafood and vegetarian options are also readily available, ensuring plenty of choices. A particular standout dish drawing high praise is the “Cancun Pineapple.” This unique presentation features a hollowed-out pineapple filled with a generous mix of shrimp, scallops, steak, chicken, grilled onions, bell peppers, and melted Mexican cheese. One reviewer described this dish as “out of this world,” calling it one of their best recent meals. It’s a flavorful and visually impressive option.
Skyway Drive-In (Fairlawn)
Stepping back in time for a classic experience, Skyway Drive-In in Fairlawn offers nostalgic charm. Meals arrive on old-school aluminum trays, delivered right to your car. The menu centers around drive-in favorites, including single, double, and triple burgers, alongside chicken, ham, turkey, steak, and fish sandwiches. Sides like fries, sauerkraut balls, and fried mushrooms are popular choices. “Aunt Ruth’s Famous Homemade Onion Rings” are particularly noteworthy. Skyway also crafts thick, delicious classic and specialty milkshakes. Even a reviewer who typically favors a local competitor found Skyway impressive, highlighting the “juicy burgers, thick milkshakes, and speedy carhops.” It’s a true American classic.
Southern Comfort Food Kitchen Ohio (Akron/Food Truck)
Chef Will Matthews brings Cajun-inspired soul food to Akron with his Southern Comfort Food Kitchen Ohio. While his food truck is renowned for items like various po’boys (available fried or grilled) and the signature SoCo burger, the brick-and-mortar location in Akron offers a more expansive menu. Here, diners can delve into dishes like hearty jambalaya and flavorful chicken wings. The restaurant’s story is compelling, involving a former Kent State football player pursuing his culinary dreams. Reviewers appreciate this backstory, noting the “pretty tasty Cajun-inspired food” served up with passion. It’s comfort food with a kick.
Guido’s Ravenna (Ravenna)
A beloved family-owned Italian restaurant, Guido’s Ravenna serves up classic, comforting Italian fare. Their menu features everything from pizzas and chicken dishes to a variety of pasta options. Many items are proudly labeled as “Guido’s own” or “homemade,” emphasizing their commitment to tradition and quality. The meat lasagna is specifically highlighted and pictured as a must-try dish. One enthusiastic reviewer called Guido’s “the bomb,” declaring the lasagna “legit.” They even gave a nod of approval to the surprising yet effective addition of green beans to the house salads. It’s a taste of Italy with a local touch.
Bistro on Main (Kent)
Located in Kent, Bistro on Main is known for its lively happy hour and incredibly diverse menu. Options range from unique BOM tacos and crispy chicken wings to nachos and various seafood selections. The seared Wester Ross Salmon, served over spinach and mashed potatoes, is a notable dish. Smoked meats like brisket and Wagyu meatloaf are also popular. The menu also includes pizzas, pork chops, sandwiches, and fresh salads. One reviewer found their meal “plentiful, packed with flavor and at a price you just can’t beat,” making it a top pick for certain evenings due to its “quality, atmosphere and pricing.” It offers sophisticated options in a welcoming setting.
Ohio Pie Co. / Donut Land (Brunswick)
This unique pairing in Brunswick offers the best of both savory and sweet worlds. Ohio Pie Co., founded by Nick Robson, operates as a “creative pizza shop.” They specialize in unique, edge-to-edge topping pizzas like the “Burley Boy,” loaded with pepperoni, sausage, meatballs, bacon, and salami. Brunch pies are available on weekends, along with various cookie flavors. Right next door, Donut Land provides a wide array of fresh donuts, including favorites like blueberry fritters and creative peanut butter creations. One reviewer loves the combination, highlighting the “most creative pizza shop” next to the convenience of grabbing a warm apple fritter from Donut Land after enjoying a pie. It’s a perfect two-stop food adventure.
Stirling (Akron)
For an elevated dining experience, Stirling in Akron’s Merriman Valley offers a sense of “comfortable elegance.” This upscale restaurant is praised for its “exceptional food and service” and its “creative plating.” The menu changes monthly, providing exciting new options with each visit. Previous dishes have included delicate gruyere de gougeres (cheese puffs), flavorful Halibut Creole with corn spoon bread, and the exquisite dessert pain perdu. One reviewer considers dinner at Stirling an “event to remember,” appreciating the consistently fresh and innovative menu. It’s a destination for special occasions or simply appreciating fine cuisine.
Good Company (Akron)
An Akron “hot spot,” Good Company excels at elevated casual food, particularly wings, burgers, and milkshakes. Specific menu favorites include Bourbon apricot barbecue wings and the signature “Good One double smash burger.” Their milkshakes are made with house-made ice cream for an extra touch of quality. Described by a friend of one reviewer as a place “where you go to see and be seen,” Good Company offers “elevated casual food,” a variety of marinated and braised wings, and creative cocktails. The setting is noted for its “casually beautiful atmosphere,” making it a vibrant and delicious place to gather.
Beyond the Bites: What Makes These Spots Special?
These chosen restaurants aren’t just about great food; they embody the spirit of the Akron community. Many are local, family-owned businesses with deep roots in the area. They reflect the passion of chefs and owners dedicated to their craft. The diversity of recommendations—from classic drive-ins and comfort food trucks to upscale bistros and creative pizza joints—showcases the breadth of Akron’s culinary talent. These places offer authentic experiences that you can’t find just anywhere, making them perfect for visitors looking for genuine local flavor, whether they are global superstars or everyday diners. Their popularity among local experts speaks volumes about their quality and standing in the community.
Planning Your Own Akron Food Tour
Inspired by these celebrity-approved recommendations? Planning your own culinary tour of the Akron area is easy. Many of these restaurants offer online menus and ordering. Checking their specific hours and locations before visiting is always a good idea. Consider grouping nearby restaurants or planning visits around different meal times to maximize your experience. Whether you’re craving a classic burger, authentic Italian, or adventurous Mexican, Akron’s “Local Flavors of 2024” list provides a fantastic starting point for exploring the region’s best eats. Don’t hesitate to ask locals for their favorite dishes or recommendations once you arrive.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of food are recommended for Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce in the Akron area?
The recommendations cover a wide range of cuisines to suit diverse tastes. The list includes classic American drive-in fare (burgers, milkshakes), authentic Mexican dishes, Southern and Cajun-inspired comfort food, traditional Italian classics, creative pizza, and elevated American bistro cuisine. There are options for casual, family-friendly dining as well as more upscale experiences.
Where are these recommended restaurants located in the Akron area?
The restaurants highlighted are spread across various cities and neighborhoods surrounding Akron. Specific locations mentioned include Stow (Spicy Sombreros), Fairlawn (Skyway Drive-In), Akron proper (Southern Comfort Food Kitchen Ohio brick-and-mortar, Stirling, Good Company), Ravenna (Guido’s Ravenna), Kent (Bistro on Main), and Brunswick (Ohio Pie Co. / Donut Land). This allows for exploration across the greater Akron region.
Why were these particular restaurants chosen for the list?
These specific establishments were selected based on the Beacon Journal’s “Local Flavors of 2024” feature. This list represents the favorite dining spots of the newspaper’s feature team reviewers. Their selections are based on personal experiences, quality of food, unique dishes (like the Cancun Pineapple or Aunt Ruth’s Onion Rings), atmosphere, service, and overall value, making them expert-vetted recommendations for visitors.
Conclusion
While Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s dining choices remain a popular topic, their visit shines a light on the excellent restaurants in Northeast Ohio, including the Akron area. The selections from the Beacon Journal’s “Local Flavors of 2024” offer a fantastic guide to some of the best local eats. From classic drive-ins to upscale bistros, these spots showcase the quality and variety of the region’s food scene. Whether you’re hoping to dine where the stars might or simply looking for your next favorite meal, Akron’s culinary landscape is ready to impress. Explore these recommended spots and discover your own local flavor favorites.
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