Akron’s food scene—a microcosm of Northeast Ohio at large—is loyal to homestyle comfort but increasingly experimental, shaped by the university, a vibrant immigrant presence, and homegrown chef talent reinvigorating old classics.
1. Luigi’s Restaurant
Dating to 1949, Luigi’s is Akron’s Italian soul. Wood-paneled walls lined with photos, red-and-white-checkered tables, and a famously generous salad covered with mozzarella—no pretense, just warmth and flavor.
The pizza, baked to chewy perfection, and the pasta, simple and hearty, have fueled couples, teams, and generations for decades.
Expect a wait on weekends, a chatty crowd, and the kind of classic little touches that make Luigi’s a home away from home.
2. Crave
Contemporary and lively, Crave sits in a downtown brick building and draws a crowd for both lunch meetings and late-night cocktails.
The menu is full of surprises: Korean barbecue tacos, duck quesadillas, and towering burgers with inventive toppings.
The colorful decor matches the playfulness of the food, and the bar program is ambitious—think craft cocktails and local beers for days.
Service is snappy and upbeat, making it just as good for a quiet dinner as a group celebration.
3. Diamond Grille
A throwback to the heyday of steakhouse dining, Diamond Grille is pure old-school: white tablecloths, martinis, sizzle from the kitchen, and servers in crisp uniforms with decades of stories.
The menu is all about prime steaks, lobster, and the city’s best hashbrowns.
It’s where Akron’s movers and shakers celebrate graduations, deals, or simply a night of indulgence.
If you want to time travel, start with the shrimp cocktail and let the experience roll out.
4. Lockview
A temple to grilled cheese, Lockview’s downtown spot delights both kids and grownups with a dizzying array of inventive sandwiches—everything from brie and apples to mac-and-cheese-stuffed—a creative craft beer menu, and house-made soups.
In summer, the rooftop tables fill up fast, accompanied by laughter and local music.
It’s comfort and fun, all at once.
5. Sichuan Gourmet
For spice lovers or those craving something different, Sichuan Gourmet offers fiery authenticity with dishes like mapo tofu, cumin lamb, and hot-pot specialties.
Colorful plates, quick service, BYOB policy, and a mix of adventurous regulars make for a cheery, energetic dining room.
It’s a taste of China’s heartland—no passport needed.
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