I like to consider myself a semi-professional eater. I am not excited about dishes I cannot pronounce or ingredients that do nothing but add words to a menu. I started thinking about places in Toledo I love and thought it would be a great idea to send a survey to everyone here at the Retirement Resource Center (my office) asking them where they like to eat and what foods excite them. My hope was to find new places and/or new dishes to try, or to be reminded of great places that I’ve forgotten about. The results were amazing so I wanted to share them with you. Read on to find some new places or old haunts that must be revisited.
It appears that everyone loves Italian! Choices for Italian cuisine ranged from Carrabba’s in Maumee and Bravo’s at Franklin Park Mall (I still and always will call it this) and Biaggi’s in Perrysburg. These are great choices with many delicious options. For a great locally owned option, I suggest the calzones at Calvino’s or pizza at Inky’s (get the meatballs for a topping). And don’t forget about Zia’s down at the Docks in downtown Toledo for a great view with dinner.
If you are looking for a nice place for a romantic dining experience, Mancy’s Steakhouse ran away with our survey. Great steak in a long standing Toledo tradition is really hard to beat. Another suggestion might be J. Alexander’s. Their ambience and food make this a great destination for a special dinner.
Chipotle received many votes in the fast-food genre – what a tasty alternative to your run of the mill fast food burger. Between fresh ingredients and reasonable prices, it is a great option. If you can’t give up your burger, try Five Guys Burger and Fries at Westgate (get the fries with Cajun). For a healthier option, Subway will probably always float to the top of this category! Notice that good fast food doesn’t have to be served through a window.
Let’s not forget about dessert. And by dessert, I mean a meal replacement. I personally found that you could possibly lead a happier life if you just eat dessert first and see if there is room for dinner later. Most of the responses were centered on ice cream (probably because we’re finally getting some heat after long months of cold rain). If you haven’t been to one of the Cold Stone Creamery stops in town, then you are missing an experience. Give them a tip to hear a song and enjoy the show! Locally owned Handels serves up fresh made flavors you will NOT find anywhere else. Get a scoop or a half gallon to go. You will never stop in the grocery store again for ice cream. If you have a chance to get over to Sandusky check out the shop at the Toft’s factory! Schmucker’s Restaurant is a family owned option with homemade pies that you should try at least once.
We had several staff members offer up great stories of how food reminded them of their parents and grandparents. It is great that food can stir up emotions and take us back. We even had several people give us recipes. If you are looking for a fabulous Lasagna recipe, Dana has a delicious way to make it better. If you have a lot of patience, Steve gave us the mouth watering recipe to what should be award winning ribs and pulled pork. If you would like these recipes please email me at Schmalex.Ruiz@gmail.com and I will get those sent out to you.
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