Culinary getaway guide: Athens, Ohio
With the temperature rising and days getting longer, it’s time we all got out for a bit. We could use a road trip.
But we’re not talking about a bonafide vacation, but instead a getaway. Even a day trip will do.
So buckle your seatbelts, kids, because we’re heading to Athens, Ohio.
A stone’s throw from the beautiful Hocking Hills, Athens is home to the Idyllic Ohio University, in addition to a quaint, historic downtown that’s jam-packed with food and drink options enough to make any epicurean’s mouth water.
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If it’s breakfast you’re after, you can’t go wrong grabbing something caffeinated or a house-baked treat from Donkey Coffee and Espresso or Fluff Bakery. Leaning toward the savory side? Check out downtown’s Bagel Street Deli for a bagel or breakfast sandwich, as the longstanding spot is loaded with equal amounts of character and flavor.
For lunch, O’Betty’s Red Hot is absolutely can’t-miss. The small storefront is positively overflowing with quirky-cool interior decor, and its creative dogs recall those featured at Columbus’ own Dirty Frank’s Hot Dog Palace.
Right across State Street from O’Betty’s is Casa Nueva if Mexican fare is on your mind. Restaurant Salaam, located just a short walk down Congress Street, operating out of a beautifully decorated space rife with plants in bloom and ornamental rugs, is another fantastic option if you’re looking for something lighter that’s still sure to satisfy.
And would you look at that? It’s already time for dinner.
Zoȅ Fine Dining is a New American eatery that’s been serving Athens for nearly 20 years, focusing on upscale take on salmon, steak, lobster and more in a sleek, ultra-polished dining room. Keeping it casual? Avalanche and GoodFella’s are two of the city’s top-tier pizza spots.
If you need something to wash all that down, check out craft beer hotspot Jackie O’s Pub & Brewery. Now a national name, their world-class brews (you have to try Mystic Mama and Dark Apparition) and huge variety are sure to please everyone in your party. While not located downtown itself, Little Fish Brewing is also a must-stop for any self respecting craft beer fan. Grab a crisp lager for now, and for a special occasion, pick up a bottle of an expertly-made and delicately-aged sour beer like Maker of Things or Natural 20. Lucky for you, both breweries also offer great food options if you’re looking for drinks with your dinner.
And if you have any room at all left over, swing by Larry’s Dog House on your way out of town for some unpretentious, but totally delicious, soft serve and sundaes.
So what are you waiting for, Columbus? It’s time to hit the road!
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