Though they may not always be the fanciest, or the classiest of their type, I have put together a list of the top ten restaurants in Akron, Ohio – making sure to give a sampling of the wide range of ethnic food our city has to offer. I am not basing my list on popular opinion, but merely trying to widen everyone’s horizons with Akron restaurants that you may or may not have tried. They are not necessarily in a particular order, as all of these restaurants are unique. They all, however, offer delicious food and a cozy atmosphere. Enjoy!
1. Aladdin’s Eatery (Mediterranean): Aladdin’s, nestled in Akron’s own Highland Square, is undoubtedly the best Lebanese restaurant in the area. It is not too pricey (most entrees on the menu are $10 or under), and the food is phenomenal. Many of the offerings are on the healthier side and can be exceptionally light-including a variety of salads and pitas rolled-this makes them a wonderful restaurant to visit in the summertime, especially given the option of outdoor seating. On the other hand, however, they also offer heartier, warmer options that are perfect for the colder months (read: fantastic lentil soup). Visit: http://www.aladdinseatery.com
2. The Lockview (American): Right in the heart of downtown, The Lockview is Akron’s one and only venue for a wide variety of gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches. Paired with an incredible selection of over 160 imported beers, a wide variety of microbrews, domestics, and locally brewed as well. If you’re not up for grilled cheese, the appetizers will knock you out (try the macaroni and cheese bites), the salads, a burger, or other sandwiches. They recently changed the menu, adding over 5 new items, and they also have daily specials (food and drinks). All sandwiches are under $10, so it’s not going to bust the budget. They definitely boast a cozy atmosphere that is great for both groups or a party of two. Visit: http://thelockview.com/index.html.
3. Siamone’s Thai Pub and Restaurant (Thai): I have found this to be one of Akron’s best kept secrets. Located on East Waterloo Road, Siamone’s serves some of the best Thai food I’ve had to date. Though it may not be as fancy as its most popular competitor (Pad Thai in Montrose-also good), the food is undoubtedly blows it out of the water. Very much a pub, the restaurant is very casual. Entrée prices range from $11-13, and are considerable portions. The restaurant also supports the local Hoppin’ Frog Brewery by offering a wide selection of its delicious brews and having tastings every first Tuesday of the month. Visit: http://siamones.com
4. Sakura (Japanese): With its comforting yet classy atmosphere and décor, and excellent sushi, Sakura is undoubtedly Akron’s top Japanese restaurant. This is an excellent date restaurant, or for groups. Though there is no hibachi, they have excellent cooked selections (I love the beef negimaki). Sakura carries a decent variety of sake, and plenty of other beverages for those so inclined. I’ve received nothing but excellent and friendly service. But the most important factor, of course, is the quality of the sushi. Whether ordering a California roll, or one of their many excellent specialty rolls you can expect the finest quality Akron has to offer. Sushi rolls, and entrees tend to range $10-15, and are well worth the cost. Info: 3900 Medina Road, Akron, OH 44333. (330) 670-0288
5. Mariachi’s (Mexican): Though there are a number of Mexican restaurants throughout Akron, I would argue that this is the best (closely followed by El Rincon). With lightning-like service, you can always be sure to get your food in a timely fashion, and be confident that it’s going to taste great. They offer a wide variety of combination dinners, both vegetarian and omnivore selections, and have incredible guacamole. I personally recommend the enchiladas-all of them are excellent, but the spinach enchiladas are pretty darn good. Very moderately priced, it is great for a lunch date-or a pitcher of margaritas. Visit: http://www.mariachilocosmexicanrestaurant.com
6. Primo’s Deli (Deli): Say it with me now: amazing Ruben. Primo’s Deli has some of the best sandwiches I’ve ever had; also with an amazing beer selection (you can obviously see my priorities). Obviously a casual atmosphere, this Akron restaurant is great for lunch or dinner. Sandwiches run between $4-9, and there are certainly plenty to choose from! There are also seven different hot dog selections, and a daily soup. If you’re looking for a quality sandwich, this is the place to be. Visit: http://www.primos-deli.com/menu.html
7. Saffron Patch (Indian): Located in the Merriman Valley, Saffron Patch is certainly Akron’s best Indian restaurant. The food far outshines any other Indian joints in the area, and the atmosphere is comfortable and classy. They have great offerings for everyone-vegetarian, omnivore, or otherwise. Service is excellent, the beer selection is good, and they have a lunch buffet that kicks the butt of any in town. Prices are a bit steeper-entrees ranging roughly between $11-30, but for those who have the funds it is absolutely worth it. I’ve had my fair share of Indian food over the years, in different areas, and this is very quality. Visit: http://www.thesaffronpatch.com
8. Bricco (Italian Fusion): Though others may claim there are more tried and true Italian restaurants in Akron that may be more worthy of this title, I think it’s a bunch of hype and blind loyalty. When I want Italian food, I go straight to Bricco. Situated neatly downtown, they offer 11 different kinds of pizza (I love the one that includes chicken, artichoke hearts, and sun-dried tomato personally), but a variety of appetizers (fried pickles hello), pasta, and salads. They too have a great selection of beer-and wine, courting perfectly with the food selection. Entrees run between $11-20. Visit: http://www.briccoakron.com
9. House of Hunan (Chinese): Though Chinese isn’t rare among Akron restaurants, not all of them have wonderful Chinese food and a half-priced sushi night. I know, sushi is not Chinese, but when the opportunity of having the best of both worlds arises, I say take it. What I would consider a higher-end Chinese restaurant, the prices are a bit steeper-dinner entrees run approximately $16-20. But the atmosphere makes up for it, and the half priced sushi isn’t bad either. Its central downtown location makes it very accessible, though parking can be a bit of a challenge. Visit: http://www.houseofhunan.net
10. Vegetarian (Vegan/Vegetarian): Founded by Akron’s own Chrissie Hynde, this upscale restaurant serves nothing but vegan food. But I can attest personally that all of the menu offerings are as pleasing to meat eaters as they are of the veggie variety. The décor is incredibly classy, and the menu is a foodie’s dream. Arugula salads, butternut squash pizza, a variety of pastas and risottos, you could get lost in the many delicious-and natural-options. There are also options for other dietary needs, such as offerings of a gluten-free pizza. Though a bit on the expensive side (entrees run at about $18), this is an Akron restaurant you shouldn’t miss out on. Visit: http://www.thevegiterranean.com
So there it is: Akron restaurants of all varieties and prices. I hope you find this helpful and continue to broaden your dining experience throughout our wonderful city.
