Posts with tag 'Small Businesses'
15
10 Places to Celebrate World Pasta Day Around Cincinnati
Nothing warms the soul quite like a fresh bowl of pasta topped with your favorite sauce. While spaghetti, tortellini, and fettuccine are a few common favorites, there are actually over 600 different shapes of pasta. Because pasta is so versatile, it's no surprise that it has become such a popular dish all over the world.
Delicious pasta dishes paired with a glass of wine and a cozy, dimly-lit restaurant make for the ultimate dining experience. With World Pasta Day coming up October 25, there couldn't be a better opportunity to set out to find your new favorite dish around Cincinnati. To help, we pulled together a list of some of our favorite local restaurants for pasta.
Sotto
118 E. 6th St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
Enjoy delicious pasta dishes in this one-of-a-kind rustic basement dining room located in downtown Cincinnati. With dishes like Tortellini Con Formaggi, Penne Con Salsiccia, and many others, Sotto is truly a favorite for Ohio pasta lovers. Dinner is accompanied by an extensive cocktail menu, and dozens of wines are available by glass or bottle. You can also top off your meal was some decadent desserts and after-dinner drinks. If you're planning to visit on the weekend, be sure to make a reservation online.
Nicola's Ristorante
1420 Sycamore St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
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Delicious contemporary Italian dishes and a warm cozy atmosphere put this fantastic Over-the-Rhine restaurant near the top of our list. Nicola's Ristorante features a number of delicious pasta dishes all made in-house, as well as several traditional Italian entrees. With great food, a romantic atmosphere, and an extensive wine and bourbon list, Nicola's is a fantastic date night location. If you prefer to dine at home, you can easily order carryout online.
Vincenzo's
11525 Chester Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45246
Some of the best Italian dining in the area can be found at Vincenzo's, a family-owned-and-operated, classic Cincinnati restaurant. You can expect fantastic food and incredible service. This menu features a wide array of traditional Italian favorites and all of the classic pasta dishes made with fresh ingredients. Dozens of wines are available by the glass or by bottle. Vincenzo's also occasionally hosts live music. The restaurant is open for dinner at 5 pm Tuesday through Saturday.
Pepp & Dolores
1501 Vine St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
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A casual Over-the-Rhine Italian restaurant with family-style dishes, Pepp & Dolores should be at the top of your list for pasta. This restaurant features two dining rooms: a classy, airy main room and a dimly lit, cozy basement dining room. The Beet & Goat Cheese and Duck Ragu are must-tries! The restaurant is open for dinner Monday through Thursday and lunch and dinner Friday through Sunday. You can also order carry out online.
Primavista
810 Matson Pl, Cincinnati, OH 45204
If you're looking for a fine dining option with some of the best city views, Primavista is a must-try destination. The menu features an assortment of traditional Italian dishes, pastas, and both vegan and gluten-free options. Primavista is also known for its spectacular service, unique atmosphere, and delicious food. The dining room is open for dinner Tuesday through Sunday and reservations are recommended. The entire menu is also available for carryout.
Forno Osteria + Bar
3514 Erie Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45208
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Try the spicy Spaghettini Arrabbiata or the delicious Tagliatelle Bolognese at Forno Osteria a popular Italian restaurant in Hyde Park. In addition to pasta, you can also enjoy some firewood brick-oven pizzas and a wide variety of wine and cocktails. Enjoy your dinner in a cozy, unique rustic dining room. For dessert, you have to try the Citrus Semifreddo! Sit at the bar if you'd like to watch the chefs in action. The restaurant is open for dinner Tuesday through Saturday.
Biagio's Bistro
308 Ludlow Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45220
A quaint neighborhood bistro serves up a number of your favorite pasta dishes from Penne Boscaiola to Seafood Alfredo. Biagio's Bistro is a unique atmosphere: The chef prepares pasta dishes in a full view kitchen. Expect large portions, great service, and affordable prices. Wine and cocktails are also available. The food is delicious, and prices are affordable, so it's easy to see why this restaurant has become a Cincinnati staple.
Via Vite
520 Vine St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
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Enjoy a fresh bowl of authentic pasta while overlooking Cincinnati's beautiful Fountain Square at Via Vite. This trendy Italian bar and restaurant has been a popular downtown destination since 2007. The Handmade Crispy Gnocchi and the Tagliatelle Bolognese are some of the most popular pasta dishes; however, the menu is constantly changing, so it's always worth stopping by and trying something new. Curbside and carryout are available. Reservations are recommended and can be made online.
Pompilio's
600 Washington Ave, Newport, KY 41071
With authentic Italian pasta and some of the most delicious sauces around, it's no wonder Pompilios has been a local favorite since 1933. Not only is this a great place to eat, movie buffs will love the fact that scenes from Rain Man were filmed inside the restaurant. Build your own pasta dish with over 10 types of pasta and 10 homemade sauces. In addition to pasta, Pompilios offers an extensive bourbon, wine, and cocktail list. They also have some of the best Tiramisu in town. Stop-in Tuesday through Saturday or order takeout online.
Alfio's Buon Cibo
2724 Erie Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45208
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Enjoy your favorite pasta dish in this upscale, elegant dining room. Alfio's Buon Cibo's is truly a romantic experience. The chef's pasta recipes date back several generations, and many entrees have an Argentinean twist, which makes this restaurant truly unique. Alfio's also have a reputation for having some of the best ravioli in town. With fantastic wine, cocktail, and dessert menus, you're sure to have a fantastic dinner. Dine-in Tuesday through Saturday or order carry out online.
Bon Appétit
Where will you enjoy pasta around Cincinnati this year?
29
You'll Fall for These 7 September LoLo Gifts
It's that time of year when leaves are falling, and so are the free gifts! Once again, Cutler Real Estate is teaming up with LoLo Gifts to bring you September's selection of freebies from merchants around Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati.
We love the variety of goods and services offered by local small businesses, and we hope these exciting offers lead you to discover a new favorite.
September Gifts:
Wooster: A Coffee and a Pastry
Cincinnati: A Bottle of Olive Oil or Vinegar
Akron: A Coffee and a Pastry
Artisan Coffee
662 Canton Rd., Akron, OH 44312
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In the 21st century, coffee is more than just a beverage, it's a work of art. Pick one of Artisan Coffee's creations, such as Maple Bourbon Cream Cold Brew, with a delicious pastry to go with it.
About Artisan Coffee
Artisan Coffee elevates a morning cup of joe to a high-quality experience. Fair-trade, organic coffee beans are roasted on-site, while syrups and caramel drizzle are also crafted in-house. Pastries and other food items are made from scratch using fresh, seasonal ingredients. Order online for easy curbside pickup.
Contact and Hours
234-334.6105
Monday - Friday 6:30 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Saturday 7:30 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Canton: Two Hotdog Combo
Major League Dawgs
6817 Wales Ave. NW, North Canton, OH 44720
Batter up! Hotdogs are as all-American as baseball. Hit a home run with the two hotdog combo from Major League Dawgs, where all dogs and French fries are made in-house.
About Major League Dawgs
Who knew hotdogs were so versatile? In addition to traditional beef hotdogs, Major League Dawgs serves varieties made from exotic meats such as bison, elk, wild boar, and ostrich. With three dozen hot and cold toppings available, ranging from bacon to peanut butter, the possibilities are endless.
Contact and Hours
330.495.1881
Monday - Thursday 11:00 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Friday - Saturday 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Columbus: A Tea
ZenCha Tea Salon
982 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43201
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Afternoon tea has been a cherished custom in England for more than two centuries. Start your own tradition with a soothing cup of tea from ZenCha Tea Salon.
About ZenCha Tea Salon
ZenCha Tea Salon has a mission to promote the entire culture that revolves around their favorite beverage. Staff members are referred to as "ambassadors" and the salon is designed to provide a sense of tranquility that enhances the benefits of drinking tea. The salon also serves a menu of soups, sandwiches, and Asian dishes.
Contact and Hours
614.421.2140
Monday - Thursday 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Friday 11 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Saturday 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Sunday 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Medina: $10 Certificate
Heart and Soul Gift Boutique
139 N. Court St., Medina, OH 44256
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Looking for a special gift, or just in the mood to treat yourself? Use your $10 certificate toward one of the many unique items at Heart and Soul Gift Boutique.
About Heart and Soul Gift Boutique
No matter what the occasion, from baby showers to graduations, you'll find the perfect item at Heart and Soul Gift Boutique. You won't be able to resist picking up something for yourself from their incredible collection of home decor, handbags, jewelry, and beauty products.
Contact and Hours
330.952.2552
Monday - Friday 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Saturday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Sunday 1 p.m. - 5 p.m.
Kent/Stow: $10 Certificate
Off the Wagon
152 E. Main St., Kent, OH 44240
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If laughter is the best medicine, shopping at Off the Wagon will cure whatever ails you. Brighten your day and use your $10 certificate toward an item that puts a smile on your face.
About Off the Wagon
Family-owned Off the Wagon prides itself on bringing the "weird and funny" to Northeast Ohio. Their shelves are full of classic gag gifts like rubber chickens, exploding golf balls, and whoopee cushions as well as games and toys. Even candy comes in unusual varieties such as sushi gummies and Tabasco jelly beans.
Contact and Hours
330.474.1330
Monday 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Tuesday - Friday 11 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Saturday 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Sunday 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Wooster: A Coffee and a Pastry
Tulipán Hungarian Pastry and Coffee Shop
122 S. Market St., Wooster, OH 44691
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Coffee and a pastry makes a great start to a morning or a relaxing mid-day break. Enjoy either one with your September offer from Tulipán Hungarian Pastry and Coffee Shop.
About Tulipán Pastry and Coffee Shop
For years, Czech immigrant Elizabeth Lakatos delighted family and friends with strudel, linzer cookies, and other treats made from recipes handed down for generations. Elizabeth decided to share these goodies with the Wooster community by opening Tulipán Hungarian Pastry and Coffee Shop. Today, new owners Emily and Mark Schrull continue Elizabeth's legacy.
Contact and Hours
330.264.8092
Tuesday - Thursday 7 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
Friday - Saturday 7 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Sunday 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Cincinnati: A Bottle of Olive Oil or Vinegar
Mt. Kofinas Olive Oil
Findlay Market, 1801 Race St., Stall 119 Inside Main Market, Cincinnati, OH 45202
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What's the secret to cooking like a gourmet chef? Add some zest to your dishes with a bottle of olive oil or vinegar from Mt. Kofinas Olive Oil.
About Mt. Kofinas Olive Oil
You might say olive oil is in the DNA of the Semertzides family, founders of Mt. Kofinas Olive Oil. They take great pride in bringing the finest quality olive oil from their homeland of Greece to the Cincinnati area. This is the same product that has been used for generations in their small village at the base of Mt. Kofinas.
Contact and Hours
513.381.0204
Tuesday - Friday 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Saturday 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Sunday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Fall Into Savings
What's the secret to getting these offers? It's no mystery. Just contact your Cutler Real Estate agent to sign up for the monthly program.
22
Celebrate Sourdough September at These 9 Columbus Bakeries
The leaves are starting to change and soon there will be a nip in the air. While there are a lot of reasons to love the fall, one of the best is often overlooked. In case you weren't aware, you may be excited to learn that it's also Sourdough September! During the entire month, people across the globe celebrate this delicious bread, and many even experiment with making their own.
If you love the taste and smell of freshly baked bread but don't have time to bake, you're in luck! There are a ton of amazing bakeries in the Columbus area. Here are a few we recommend checking out next time you're in the mood for the ultimate comfort food.
My Old World Bakery
962 Demorest Rd. Columbus, OH 43204
If you're looking for an old-fashioned bakery, you'll love My Old World Bakery. The chef here has over 20 years of experience and specializes in many different types of bread, cookies, pies, and pastries. They also fry fresh donuts every night, and at the end of each day, they donate any items they haven't sold.
Dan the Baker - Toast Bar
1028 Ridge St, Columbus, OH 43215
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Baker Dan Riesenberger is known for creating world-renowned sourdough bread using honest ingredients and time-honored practices. He also makes a variety of other breads including Black Mountain (ancient), Sesame, and Olive Polenta. The menu varies weekly and may include a variety of croissants and other pastries made with Snowville Creamery dairy and French butter. You can get Dan's treats at his bakery and at several other area markets and restaurants.
Great Harvest Bread Co.
4723 Reed Rd, Columbus, OH 43220
The bakers at the Great Harvest Bread Co. pride themselves on making the freshest and most flavorful baked goods you've ever tasted. In fact, they welcome you to stop by the bakery and enjoy a free slice of hot-from-the-oven bread or one of their sweet treats.
One of the reasons their bread tastes so good is that they use whole grains and fresh-milled wheat bought from family-owned farms in Montana, which is known as one of the finest wheat-growing areas in the world. You also won't find any preservatives, additives, or complicated ingredients in any of their products.
Omega Artisan Baking
59 Spruce St, Columbus, OH 43215
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If you're looking for sourdough bread that's "out of this world," look no further than Omega Artisan Baking! They handcraft all of their breads using high-quality, all-natural ingredients, and everything they make is free from preservatives and chemical additives.
In addition to sourdough, they also create a variety of breakfast breads, traditional bread, sweet treats, and other menu items like tartlets, quiche, and soup. Since they make their bread in small batches, they don't always have everything available every day. However, if you really want a particular kind of bread, you can just give them a call, and they're happy to accommodate your request.
Golden Delight Bakery
1516 Bethel Rd, Columbus, OH 43220
Golden Delight Bakery has been serving residents in the Columbus area for over 20 years. Everything in their shop is made from scratch daily, and many agree that it's the best bakery in town. If you're in the mood for a different kind of sweet treat, you'll also want to try their locally famous fresh strawberry cake.
OH Jenny Bakes
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From sourdough baguettes made from an at-home starter aged 18 months to summer pies and scones, you're sure to love the selection of treats offered by OH Jenny Bakes. Her menu also includes Irish soda bread, focaccia bread, buttermilk biscuits, dessert breads, cookies, biscuits, and more.
Owner Jenny says she prioritizes taste and texture over elaborate decoration. When you order from her, you may notice the simple appearance of the goods you receive. However, don't let that fool you! These are sure to be some of the best baked goods you've ever tasted. If you're looking for food that tastes like grandma used to bake, you definitely won't be disappointed.
Matt's Bakery
3675 E. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43213
The family-owned and run Matt's Bakery is a full-service kosher bakery. All of their baked goods are dairy, nut, and gluten-free, making this the perfect stop for anyone who has allergies or intolerances. You'll find a wide variety of baked goods here, including a selection of breads, cakes, cookies, pies, and pastries. They also offer platters and catering options so you can enjoy fresh baked goods at your next event.
L&M Bakery
932 S. Pearl St., Columbus, OH 43206
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L&M Bakery was born out of a love for baking and the owner's desire to make their community a better place. This cottage bakery specializes in breads and sweets. They fresh-make all of their items and will deliver them right to your door.
Their menu features classic French, ciabatta, multi-seed, mixed-herb focaccia, rosemary olive bread, and more. You'll also find a selection of sweet treats like chocolate chip pumpkin bread, double chocolate brownies, and vegan chocolate truffles.
When you order from this bakery, you won't just love what you get, you'll also feel good about doing it. In addition to making some of the most delicious baked goods in the Columbus area, they also donate $1 from every item they sell to the Mid-Ohio Food Bank.
Albys Bakery
5665 Emporium Square, Columbus, OH 43231
Any time you drive by Albys Bakery, you'll find yourself unable to resist the smells wafting out. This minimalist bakery focuses on just one thing – bread – and they do it exceptionally well. Their loaves of bread are light but also sturdy enough to slice and extremely fresh. Not only is the bread amazing, but you'll love the super-friendly owners and staff so much that you're sure to want to return again and again.
Fresh from the Oven
Where will you go to enjoy some fresh-baked sourdough bread?
17
9 Places for a Create-Your-Own Northeast Ohio Winery Tour
Whether you're a wine connoisseur or just someone who would like to try different varieties and learn about them, Northeast Ohio is the ideal place to create your own winery tour. Its fertile soil and climate make it a prime location to grow grapes, as evidenced by its many local wineries. They offer a relaxed atmosphere and are often family-owned, so you'll be able to learn about their history and offerings. Some also offer food ranging from small bites to full meals, as well as weekend entertainment.
Check out the following nine places to consider as you create your own Northeast Ohio Winery tour.
Sharon James Cellars
11303 Kinsman Rd., Newbury Township, OH 44065
Try one of several handcrafted wines at Sharon James Cellars, where you'll find reds, whites, and roses named after virtues like vitality and compassion. The property has a tasting room if you prefer to enjoy your wine indoors, as well as an outdoor patio and open-air outdoor pavilion if you like to relax outside with your wine. The winery also has a full-service kitchen and full-time chef, so you can indulge in deliciously fresh meals prepared using local ingredients. Try a pizza or panini, or order a delicious appetizer or two such as fresh hummus and veggies or a cheese plate.
Urban Vintner
37484 N. Industrial Pkwy., Willoughby, OH 44094
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You'll be able to see the entire production process at Urban Vintner, watching the transformation from grape to bottled wine. It's co-owned by award-winning winemaker Ed Trebets, who has won over 1,000 medals in his winemaking career. Sample several with a visit to the Tasting Room, which is open on Fridays and Saturdays. And if you'd like to try even more varieties, the winery offers a wine club that includes selections that are locally produced as well as ones that are globally sourced.
Laleure Vineyards
17335 Nash Rd., Middlefield, OH 44062
This small boutique winery makes most of its wines from vinifera grapes grown right on the property. Schedule your visit for a weekend if possible, when the tasting room is open, but it's also open by appointment if you'd like to visit at another time. The vineyard also frequently hosts live entertainment on Fridays and/or Saturdays, so order a glass of your favorite selection and relax while you enjoy the music.
Blind Squirrel Winery
7918 Pettibone Rd., Chagrin Falls, OH 44023
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Wines are produced and blended on-site at Blind Squirrel winery, and they're selected to appeal to a wide range of tastes. Some additional wines are offered seasonally. The tasting room is open Thursdays through Saturdays from 4-9 p.m., so try some different types and settle on a full glass or two of your favorite.
Stonegait Winery
4275 Bates Rd., Madison, OH 44057
If Stonegait Winery has a rustic barn-like appearance, that's because it once was a barn on a former horse farm. The owners purchased the barn after planting their vineyard and waiting four years, and they then renovated the barn to transform it into a winery. It now offers a full food menu along with an extensive list of wine offerings that you're welcome to enjoy by the bottle, glass, or taste. Fridays or Saturdays are a good time to visit if you'd like to enjoy live music along with your food and wine.
The Winery at Spring Hill
6062 South Ridge Rd. W, Geneva, OH 44041
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The Winery at Spring Hill has a friendly, relaxing feel, and although wine is its centerpiece, it also offers much more. In addition to a selection of handcrafted wines ranging from dry to sweet, their wine bar also serves unique hard ciders, craft beers from local breweries, and cocktails made with liquor from local distilleries. Food is also available, and you can choose a snack, meal, or one of the bakery's delicious desserts.
Virant Family Winery
541 Atkins Rd., Geneva, OH 44041
The Virant family spans 3 generations of winemakers, the latest of whom currently own the winery. Their 11 selections are made to have a crisp grape taste along with a pleasant aftertaste. They pair well with the winery's weekly snack food menu along with their more extensive menu for the weekends, when you can order steak, chicken, or ribs and listen to live music.
Silver Crest Cellars
4511 Bates Rd., Madison, OH 44057
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Silver Crest Cellars uses grapes from their family vineyards that date back to the 1930s, along with grapes from other local growers. Try their wines by the bottle, glass, or taste in a relaxing indoor or outdoor seating area. You'll be able to choose from old-world as well as new-world varieties, in addition to local and historical varieties and blends.
Debonne Vineyards
7840 Doty Rd., Madison, OH 44057
The largest estate winery in Ohio, Debonne Vineyards has over 175 acres of grapevines. The vineyard is known for its newer varieties and original blends and has also opened its own microbrewery. To learn about the entire winemaking process, schedule a tour that includes four samples of wine as well as cheese and crackers. You can also choose a tasting tray of your favorite type of wine, such as dry red or Riesling, and you'll get a souvenir glass, bottled water, crackers, and chocolate. And if you're ready for a meal, a casual food menu is also available. You might want to time your visit to coincide with one of the many events hosted by the winery, including a home winemaking class, fun run, bocce ball tournament, or motorcycle rally.
Sip, Savor, Repeat
What are some of your favorite wineries in Northeast Ohio?
15
Specialty Foods: 9 Stops on the Ohio Buckeye Candy Trail
Buckeyes are a popular treat in the state of Ohio. Who wouldn't love these balls of peanut butter coated in chocolate? Whether you're a dedicated buckeyes fan or someone hoping to experience them for the first time, you just have to take a trip along the Ohio Buckeye Candy Trail. This trail takes you to various bakeshops and candy stores, each serving its own version of buckeyes. Here are some of the top stops along the Ohio Buckeye Candy Trail.
Haute Chocolate
9424 Shelly Lane, Cincinnati, OH 45242
Haute Chocolate is an incredible candy store in Cincinnati. They've been in business since 1979 and have gained quite a reputation for their buckeyes. As you step into the small, brick building, you'll be greeted by the scent of chocolate and peanut butter — and you'll know something delicious awaits.
The owner is usually in the store at Haute Chocolate, and they can tell you all about their chocolate-making process. In addition to classic chocolate buckeyes, they also make white chocolate buckeyes, which are a must for any white chocolate fan. The chocolate-covered strawberries are also incredible if you're looking for something to accompany your buckeyes. Eating the buckeyes and strawberries side by side is almost like having a peanut butter and jelly sandwich.
Tickled Sweet
317 Main St., Milford, OH 45150
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Tickled Sweet is located in the downtown area of Milford. They were named Score Business of the Year in 2017! You can spend an hour or two walking around to nearby shops and restaurants before stopping in for some buckeyes. They're made in-house, and they're served with a smile.
In addition to buckeyes, Tickled Sweet offers an assortment of fudge and macarons. Their macarons come in fun flavors like key lime and birthday cake, and they're sold individually.
Bellbrook Chocolate Shoppe
101 E. Alex Bell Rd., Centerville, OH 45459
Bellbrook Chocolate Shoppe was founded in 1984 and has remained a family business ever since. The shop is housed in a small brick building. Inside, shelves of packaged chocolates draw you in with their beauty. There's also a deli-style service counter where you can have chocolate packaged individually to order.
Bellbrook Chocolate Shoppe sells traditional buckeyes with a milk chocolate exterior. The peanut butter centers are especially creamy! They come in packages of 6, 12, or 24, so you can bring a few home to share. If you're looking for something to enjoy alongside your buckeyes, you can't go wrong with the shortbread. Known as "Aunt Laura's shortbread," it's incredibly delicate with a nice brown sugar flavor.
Anthony Thomas
1777 Arlingate Lane, Columbus, OH 43228
If you're in or around Columbus, make sure you stop by Anthony Thomas for some buckeyes. This large candy store is family-operated, and they manage to turn out 50,000 pounds of chocolate each year.
The buckeyes here are described as "really peanut buttery" and smooth. They come individually wrapped, so you can try one here and there without worrying about the rest of the package spoiling. Buy a 12-piece or 24-piece box if you plan on sharing. Anthony Thomas also sells Ohio Baskets, which are shaped like the state of Ohio and filled with classic candies like buckeyes, chocolate-covered pretzels, and caramel corn.
Chocolate Cafe
1855 Northwest Blvd., Columbus, OH 43212
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If you want to eat some lunch or breakfast alongside your buckeyes, this is the place to go. Chocolate Cafe has a menu with soups, salads, sandwiches, wine, cocktails, and even omelets. But the chocolate is definitely the star of the show.
The buckeyes at Chocolate Cafe are hand-rolled, and they sell for $1 apiece. They also offer buckeye pretzels, which is a fun twist on the classic. You might be tempted to order some truffles or mini cupcakes to bring home, too.
Schmidt's Fudge Haus
220 E. Kossuth St., Columbus, OH 43206
This shop may be named after fudge, but don't let that fool you. They still have some of the best buckeyes in Columbus. The centers are incredibly smooth and creamy, and they're dipped in real Belgian chocolate. You can buy the buckeyes in boxes of 6 or 15.
Definitely take the opportunity to sample the fudge while you're at Schmidt's, too. The plain chocolate is a classic, but the butter pecan is incredible if you're a nut lover. Schmidt's Fudge Haus is located in the Historic German Village, so feel free to take a walk around as you enjoy your sweets.
Sweetie's Chocolates at Grandpa's Cheesebarn
Sweetie's Chocolates is an enormous candy store located directly next to Grandpa's Cheesebarn, an enormous cheese store. If you're in Northeast Ohio, you absolutely need to visit both. They offer lots of free samples and have an incredible selection of both cheeses and sweets.
Sweetie's offers buckeyes dipped in both milk and dark chocolate. They even offer miniature buckeyes, which they sell in a big tub suitable for sharing. Other tasty treats include chocolate-covered pretzels, caramels, and fudge. The licorice candy, which comes in many flavors, is also a favorite.
Honadle's Fine Chocolates
1138 W. Maple St., Hartville, OH 44632
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Honadle's doesn't take shortcuts, sourcing as many ingredients as possible from local companies, and they always use the freshest, best-quality items possible. This really shows in the quality of their buckeyes and chocolates. Honadle's is a stop on the Ohio Buckeye Trail that you don't want to skip.
The buckeyes here come in milk and dark chocolate versions, and they're sold in a 12-count box. The sea salt caramels are a great treat to order if you're looking for something extra.
Butter Maid Bakery
100 Victoria Rd., Youngstown, OH 44515
Everything at Butter Maid Bakery is made in small batches, using old-fashioned recipes and traditional ingredients. They've been around since 1903, so they've had plenty of time to master their craft! In addition to the buckeyes, customers love their kalochi, and it's definitely worth a try.
Butter Maid Bakery's buckeyes are larger than most. The filling is also a bit softer than you might be used to since they're made with a higher proportion of peanut butter. They're sold in 12-count boxes, so you'll have enough to share.
Taste Ohio's Best
As you travel along the Ohio Buckeye Trail, your taste buds are sure to be pleased! Which one of these candy stores are you most excited to visit?
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