OHIO - Ohio, the "Heart of It All," has seen a dramatic shift in its weekend culture over the last few years. While the state has always loved a hearty breakfast, the modern Ohio brunch is a different beast entirely—blending Midwestern hospitality with craft brewery culture, global influences, and a serious passion for local ingredients.
From the lakeside patios of Cleveland to the bustling university districts of Columbus, here is why brunch is king in Ohio and where you can find the best plates in 2025.
Why Brunch is Taking Over Ohio
- The Brewery "Brunch-over": Ohio is home to one of the most robust craft beer scenes in the country. To maximize their taproom space, breweries like Wolf's Ridge in Columbus and Collision Bend in Cleveland have launched high-end brunch menus. This has created a culture where craft beer cocktails (like "Beermosas") are just as common as traditional mimosas.
- The "Midwestern Reimagined" Movement: Ohio chefs are leaning into the State agricultural strengths—think artisanal goetta, local maple syrup, and Ohio-sourced dairy—but presenting them in sophisticated ways like breakfast poutine or sourdough French toast.
- The "Game Day" Ritual: In a state that lives and breathes sports (Go Buckeyes!), brunch has become the ultimate "pre-game" ritual. Fans gather hours before kickoff for "booze and breakfast" to fuel up for the day's action.
Where to Brunch: A Guide to Ohio's Major Cities
1. Columbus: The Capital of Creativity
- Fox in the Snow: A rustic-style bakery that has achieved cult status. You go here for their legendary souffléd egg sandwich and artisan pastries. It's an essential stop for anyone seeking a "curated" brunch vibe.
- Katalina's: Located in a converted gas station, this is the home of the "Original Pancake Balls." Their Latin-inspired menu and funky atmosphere make it one of the most popular spots in the city.
- Skillet: A farm-to-table powerhouse in German Village. The menu changes with the seasons, but the focus is always on massive, chef-driven comfort food that highlights the best of Ohio's producers.
2. Cleveland: Lakeside Luxury & Tremont Traditions
- Lucky's CaCaféA Tremont staple, where everything is made with Ohio-sourced ingredients. Their biscuits and gravy are widely considered some of the best in the country.
- Astoria CaCafé Market: Part gourmet market, part Mediterranean cacaféThis is the place for those who want a "sophisticated" brunch featuring shakshuka, tortilla española, and incredible charcuterie boards.
- The Rowley Inn: Located across from the A Christmas Story House, this tavern serves up "Cleveland-forward" brunch—think pierogi platters and breakfast poutine in a classic, welcoming environment.
3. Cincinnati: Home of the Goetta
- The Blue Door CaCafé Bakery: Frequently ranked among the best brunch spots in the nation by Yelp, this Cuyahoga Falls gem (near the Cincy/Akron orbit) is famous for its Monte Cristo sandwiches and house-made pastries.
- HangOverEasy: With locations across the state (including Cincinnati and Columbus), this spot is the king of the "high-energy" brunch. It's a favorite for its cheeky menu names and "bomb" mimosas.
- Northstar CaCaféA sophisticated, health-conscious choice with locations across Ohio. Their "Shooting Star" juice and Cloud Nine pancakes are staples for the weekend crowd.
4. Dublin & The Suburbs: Sophistication in the Burbs
- Kitchen Social: A massive hit in Dublin and Cleveland, known for its "social" atmosphere and creative twists. Don't skip the "Cinnabiscuits"—a brunch version of their famous cheddar scallion biscuits.
- Tucci's: For a classy weekend treat in Dublin, Tucci's offers Challah French toast and elegant egg creations in a beautiful setting.
The "Ohio-Only" Brunch Order
- Goetta: A German-American breakfast sausage made of ground meat and pinhead oats. It is a Cincinnati staple and a must-try whenever you see it on a menu.
- Buckeye Donuts/Pastries: You'll frequently find chocolate and peanut butter-inspired treats on brunch menus, a nod to the State favorite candy.
- Mimosa Flights: Ohioans love a "flight." Whether it's beer or juice infusions, expect to see 3–4 mini mimosas on a wooden board.
Pro Traveler's Tips:
- The "Waitlist" Apps: Popular Ohio spots like HangOverEasy and Kitchen Social allow you to join the waitlist virtually. Use this to your advantage to avoid standing in the cold!
- Quiet Zone Days: In college towns like Columbus and Athens, home-game Saturdays are chaotic. If you want a peaceful brunch, aim for Sunday morning or a non-game day.
- Bakery First: Many Ohio brunch spots started as bakeries. If there is a display case, buy a pastry for the road—they are often the highlight of the meal.
