25 Essential Dayton Institutions
From neighborhood classics to high-wire tasting rooms, these are the places shaping the modern dining identity of Dayton.
Old Scratch Pizza
Ohio
Creative, wood-fired pies paired with a rotating menu of craft taps in this hip, lofty pizzeria.
Charlie's Deli & Catering
Ohio
Time-tested, no-frills nook for deli sandwiches & salads, plus German pantry staples & craft beer.
Amber Rose Restaurant & Catering
Ohio
Eastern European food & imported beers in a 1910 building with stained glass & a Turkish marble bar.
Marion's Piazza
Dayton, Ohio
Long-running counter-serve chain featuring a menu of thin-crust pizzas, pasta & sandwiches.
Flying Pizza
Dayton, Ohio
New York- & Sicilian-style pizzas & slices in a no-frills space at family-owned eatery since 1971.
Dewey's Pizza - University of Dayton
Dayton, Ohio
Casual Midwestern chain serving inventive specialty pizzas & seasonal craft beers.
Marion's Piazza - Pizza Restaurant
Dayton, Ohio
Long-running counter-serve chain featuring a menu of thin-crust pizzas, pasta & sandwiches.
Coco's Bistro
Dayton, Ohio
Modern, upscale New American eatery & lounge serving pasta, eclectic entrees & artisanal pizzas.
Salar Restaurant and Lounge
Dayton, Ohio
Stylish eatery featuring a menu of global fare, 2 full bars making specialty cocktails & a lounge.
Jay's Seafood
Dayton, Ohio
Antique mahogany & red velvet lend a stately air to this spot offering a classic seafood menu.
South Park Pizza Tavern
Dayton, Ohio
Craft beer tavern serving creative pies & pub fare, plus arcade games & live music on weekends.
The Ugly Duckling
Dayton, Ohio
Identifies as Black-owned. Service options: Onsite services, Takeout, Dine-in. Highlights: Great coffee, Serves local specialty. Popular for: Breakfast.
Joe's Pizzeria
Dayton, Ohio
Casual parlor offering up pizza, pasta & sandwiches for dine-in or carryout since 1959.
West Social Tap & Table
Dayton, Ohio
Service options: Outdoor seating, Delivery, Onsite services, Takeout, Dine-in. Highlights: Fast service, Great beer selection, Great cocktails, Live music.
Hasty Tasty Pancake House
Dayton, Ohio
All-day American diner eats from breakfast fare to homestyle entrees served in humble, vintage digs.
Ginger and Spice Asian Bistro
Dayton, Ohio
Snug, down-to-earth place with warm wood panelling serving varied Asian eats & craft beer.
Red Carpet Tavern
Dayton, Ohio
Service options: Outdoor seating, No-contact delivery, Dine-in. Highlights: Bar games, Fast service, Great beer selection, Great cocktails, Karaoke, Live music.
Slyder's Tavern
Dayton, Ohio
Low-key, wood-paneled bar & grill, in business since 1948, serving draft brews, burgers & wings.
Thai 9
Dayton, Ohio
Modern restaurant serving a menu of upscale Thai dishes & sushi plus wine & craft beer.
Fatback's Barbecue
Dayton, Ohio
Laid-back kitchen serving classic barbecue options such as brisket & ribs with signature sauces.
CJ Chan
Dayton, Ohio
Casual, contemporary outfit serving classic Chinese & Japanese dishes along with sushi & sashimi.
Lucky's Taproom & Eatery
Dayton, Ohio
Chill bar offering many craft beers & pub grub with vegan options, plus TVs & model cars on display.
White Lotus Restaurant
Dayton, Ohio
Typical Thai dishes whipped up in no-nonsense, compact quarters with counter seating.
Spaghetti Warehouse
Dayton, Ohio
Pasta is the specialty of this casual Italian chain with a family-friendly vibe.
Lee's Famous Recipe Chicken
Dayton, Ohio
Counter-service chain offering honey-dipped chicken, biscuits & other comfort food.