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In-The-Area Foodie Guidebook

Eating and drinking within 1/2 hour drive from downtown Sandusky

Sandusky

Vine & Olive

Mediterranean cafe, wine shop, grocery

Vine & Olive
Vine & Olive
Vine & Olive

Directions (from the Jet Express)
4917 Milan Rd #5, Sandusky, OH 44870
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This European-style eatery is an interesting combination of coffee shop, wine bar, cafe, and grocery market. The indoor area includes ample seating, shelves of olive oils, vinegars, and various other groceries, and an abundant selection of wines by the bottle. The coffee shop menu offers espresso-based beverages and coffee/tea, along with an enticing selection of pastries and truffles. The wine bar provides a daily selection of wines by the glass. The Mediterranean cafe menu includes a handful of appetizers, sandwiches, and salads. Both indoor and patio seating available. 13-minute drive from the Jet Express.

Manny's Restaurant

Sports bar & grill

Manny's Restaurant

Directions (from the Jet Express)
6201 Milan Rd, Sandusky, OH 44870
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This long-time Sandusky staple is a pleasant non-chain sports bar & grill. The menu mostly consists of standard bar fare but also offers some nontraditional options. The U-shaped full bar has plenty of seating for the sports-watchers and includes an impressive selection of Ohio beers from various breweries. The family-friendly dining room offers a simple, enjoyable atmosphere. 14-minute drive from the Jet Express.

Ming's Garden

Take-out restaurant

Ming's Garden

Directions (from the Jet Express)
3317 Milan Rd, Sandusky, OH 44870
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This family-owned-and-operated Chinese restaurant has been a Sandusky favorite for decades. While no longer offering dine-in, this can be a delicious and fast take-out option on the way back from town. The menu includes typical items such as steamed or pan-fried dumplings, soups, lo mein, chow mein, fried rice, etc. The quality and taste reflect the hard work of the chef, and the check-out service is friendly and attentive. 9-minute drive from the Jet Express.

Samurai Japanese Steak House

Full service restaurant

Samurai Japanese Steak House

Directions (from the Jet Express)
5500 Milan Rd #350, Sandusky, OH 44870
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This Japanese steak house offers hibachi, a plentiful selection of high-quality sushi, as well as kitchen appetizer and entree options. A full bar is available and includes sake offerings. The Asian-themed interior is spacious and inviting. Indoor seating only. Dinner hours only. 15-minute drive from the Jet Express.

The Club Restaurant & Bar

Full service restaurant

The Club Restaurant & Bar

Directions (from the Jet Express)
1220 Sycamore Line, Sandusky, OH 44870
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This Italian steakhouse is located in a beautiful historic Sandusky building. A reinvented version of its predecessor, which was a Sandusky staple for decades before moving to another location, this restaurant still serves several Italian classics from the original menu along with new dishes. A full bar offers a craft cocktail list as well as extensive selections of beers, wines, and spirits. Indoor and patio seating available. Dinner hours only. 6-minute drive from the Jet Express.

Bay Harbor

Full service restaurant

Bay Harbor
Bay Harbor
Bay Harbor

Directions (from the Jet Express)
1 Cedar Point Dr Ste 104, Sandusky, OH 44870
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Located dockside to Cedar Point Marina, just outside of Cedar Point gates, this upscale seafood restaurant offers a charming ambience both indoors and on the marina-view patio. The menu includes raw bar items, delicious escargot, fresh fish, and many other seafood and non-seafood options. A full bar complements the food offerings. Dinner hours only. 12-minute drive from the Jet Express.

Firelands Winery

Winery

Firelands Winery

Directions (from the Jet Express)
917 Bardshar Rd, Sandusky, OH 44870
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This charming winery offers an extensive selection of wines that includes Firelands estate wines, other local brands, as well as an array of domestic and imported wines. Individual tastes and tasting flights can be sampled at the tasting counter located inside the wine shop; dining room and patio seating are available, as well. The wine offerings are accompanied by a menu of pizzas, snacks, paninis, and salads, and live music entertainment is not uncommon on the patio. The staff is knowledgeable and friendly. 10-minute drive from the Jet Express.

The Winerie

Winery

The Winerie
The Winerie
The Winerie

Directions (from the Jet Express)
6413 Hayes Ave, Sandusky, OH 44870
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This grandiose winery is the expanded version of its predecessor, which was a long-time Sandusky favorite. Flavors of both the original rustic structure and the more modern additions to the building work well together to create an elegant interior. The multi-section patio offers plenty of outdoor seating. Wine flights are available, and the estate-label wine selection is accompanied by a gourmet menu of starters, flatbreads, salad, and sliders. Live music entertainment is often part of the experience in this venue. 13-minute drive from the Jet Express.

Old Dutch Tavern

Sports bar

Old Dutch Tavern

Directions (from the Jet Express)
2219 E Perkins Ave, Sandusky, OH 44870
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The Old Dutch Tavern represents a classic, staple watering hole for the locals. A long-time favorite for catching a ball game on TV on a weekend afternoon, it's a sports bar full of local flavor and character. 10-minute drive from the Jet Express.

Toft Dairy Ice Cream Parlor

Ice cream shop

Toft Dairy Ice Cream Parlor

Directions (from the Jet Express)
3717 Venice Rd, Sandusky, OH 44870
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This huge industrial-looking building not only houses the Venice Rd. ice cream parlor location but also serves as the home site and production facility for all of Toft's dairy products, which are sold in Toft's ice cream shop locations and in grocery/convenience stores throughout North-Central Ohio. The ice cream is made from Toft's hormone-free milk, and the menu offers a countless variety of flavors. The portions are humongous, so anyone wanting just a reasonable portion is best off ordering a child-size scoop. The parlor itself, although remodeled, still retains an old-fashioned ice cream parlor look-and-feel, and a large patio affords plenty of outdoor seating. 7-minute drive from the Jet Express.

Bay Bell

Full service restaurant

Bay Bell

Directions (from the Jet Express)
801 E Bayview Dr, Sandusky, OH 44870
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This out-of-the-way restaurant is a hidden gem. The menu offers a wide variety of seafood, steak, and chop options, as well as various other selections. A plentiful craft cocktail list complements the food menu. The weekend breakfast menu offers typical breakfast fare and includes a la carte options for smaller appetites. The staff is knowledgeable and friendly. 13-minute drive from the Jet Express.

Huron

Gathering Grounds Coffee House

Coffee shop

Gathering Grounds Coffee House
Gathering Grounds Coffee House
Gathering Grounds Coffee House

Directions (from the Jet Express)
404 Main St, Huron, OH 44839
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This Huron coffee shop offers a spacious and comfortable seating area and a full menu of espresso-based drinks, coffee, and tea. A small breakfast selection consists of pastries and granola bars. A handful of outdoor seats are available. Located within walking distance from the riverfront, this coffee shop has a unique local flair. 21-minute drive from the Jet Express.

Berardi's Family Restaurant

Full service restaurant

Berardi's Family Restaurant

Directions (from the Jet Express)
218 Cleveland Rd E, Huron, OH 44839
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Berardi's offers a family-friendly environment for all meals of the day. Breakfast menu provides standard hot breakfast selections. Lunch and dinner menu includes classic Italian dishes and delicious seafood options in addition to diner-style fare, all at very reasonable prices. A selection of local wines is also available. Indoor seating only. 22-minute drive from the Jet Express.

Harbor House Bar & Grill

Full service restaurant

Harbor House Bar & Grill

Directions (from the Jet Express)
132 Main St, Huron, OH 44839
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This restaurant and cantina is located on the Huron River, with the outdoor cantina and patio stretching along the river front. With cleats available for dock-and-dine, it's not unusual to see folks step off of their boats or jet skis for some lunch or dinner. The mostly bar & grill style menu additionally offers gourmet tacos, several mac & cheese varieties, and some seafood options. Indoor seating is available, with a large full bar and plenty of tables. The outdoor cantina, frequented by locals in the evenings, creates a fun atmosphere to grab a cocktail while enjoying the evening view of the river. Live music on the outdoor stage is a staple throughout the summer on weekends. 21-minute drive from the Jet Express.

Bar North Bistro

Full service restaurant

Bar North Bistro

Directions (from the Jet Express)
1316 Mudbrook Rd, Huron, OH 44839
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Part of the Thunderbird North golf course, Bar North is located on the golf course property, with a beautiful patio overlooking the course. The bistro-style menu includes appetizers, flatbreads, salads, sandwiches, and entrees and is complemented by offerings from a full bar. Both indoor and patio seating available. 21-minute drive from the Jet Express.

Costa Azul Mexican Restaurant

Full service restaurant

Costa Azul Mexican Restaurant
Costa Azul Mexican Restaurant
Costa Azul Mexican Restaurant

Directions (from the Jet Express)
2109 Cleveland Rd W, Huron, OH 44839
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This Huron favorite offers delicious salsa, fresh guacamole, excellent margaritas, and many other Mexican restaurant staples. The bright-colored Mexican-themed environment includes a multi-section dining room, bar seating, and a well-shaded patio. The food is delicious, and the service is friendly. Great family atmosphere. 16-minute drive from the Jet Express.

Marconi's Italian Restaurant

Full service restaurant

Marconi's Italian Restaurant

Directions (from the Jet Express)
424 Berlin Rd, Huron, OH 44839
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This long-time Huron favorite serves delicious Italian fare in an inviting Tuscan-style atmosphere. The dining room is stylish and spacious, but the quaint and charming lounge area is favored by the locals. The menu includes a generous appetizer selection, veal, chicken, and seafood, and the full bar offerings include an extensive wine list. The beautiful Tuscan-style garden offers a delightful outdoor dining experience. Dinner hours only. 23-minute drive from the Jet Express.

Angry Bull Steak House

Full service restaurant

Angry Bull Steak House

Directions (from the Jet Express)
3317 Cleveland Rd E, Huron, OH 44839
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This steakhouse offers fine quality steaks, chops, and seafood, along with gourmet appetizers and a full bar, in a lively, casual atmosphere. The extensive specials list typically turns this steakhouse into an upscale seafood restaurant. The cocktail menu includes an appealing selection of wines and martinis. While the dining room provides a quieter environment, the lounge is favored by the locals for a warmer, cozier ambience. Indoor seating only. Dinner hours only. 25-minute drive from the Jet Express.

Old Fish House

Cocktail bar

Old Fish House
Old Fish House
Old Fish House

Directions (from the Jet Express)
30 Main St, Huron, OH 44839
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With the back deck directly on the Huron River and the roof-top patio overlooking the Huron Pier, this bar offers amazing views, great cocktails, and an awesome Bloody Mary bar with all the fixings on Sundays. Live music is a frequent occurrence on the back deck in the summer. Limited indoor seating is available at the counter. No food menu. 22-minute drive from the Jet Express.

Quarry Hill Winery

Winery

Quarry Hill Winery
Quarry Hill Winery
Quarry Hill Winery

Directions (from the Jet Express)
8403 Mason Rd #2, Berlin Heights, OH 44814
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Located next door to their Quarry Hill Fruit Orchards, in addition to grape wine this winery also seasonally produces delicious fruit-based wines, such as their dry apple wine and their peach wine. The estate wine offerings include late-harvest and ice wines in addition to dry and semi-dry varieties and are accompanied by a selection of small plates and panini sandwiches. The impressive rows of vines provide a beautiful view of the vineyard at the front of the property, which can be enjoyed from several outdoor seating vantage points. The indoor atmosphere is equally inviting, with live music completing the ambience a lot of Friday and Saturday nights. 28-minute drive from the Jet Express.

Pied Piper

Ice cream shop

Pied Piper

Directions (from the Jet Express)
502 Huron St, Huron, OH 44839
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This traditional small-town ice cream kiosk located in the heart of Huron has been a favorite summer spot among the locals for many years. The offerings include a variety of flavors of ice cream, frozen yogurt, floats, and milk shakes, along with hot dogs and other snacks, which can be enjoyed at one of the picnic tables adjoining or behind the kiosk. Delicious ice cream in a charming setting. 22-minute drive from the Jet Express.

Marblehead / Port Clinton

R Coffee Corner

Coffee shop

R Coffee Corner
R Coffee Corner
R Coffee Corner

Directions (from the Jet Express)
3848 Harbor Light Landing Drive, Port Clinton, OH 43452
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Located in a Port Clinton plaza looking out at a man-made pond, this diverse coffee shop offers espresso-based drinks, bubble teas, cocktails, pastries, salads, sandwiches, and fish feed! The reason for this last item is the colorful fish of varied species and sizes swimming in the pond, which is adjacent to the coffee shop's patio. Ample indoor seating includes a cozy lounge-style area as well as two quieter rooms with plenty of comfortable space to work on a laptop. The pastry offerings include a delicious beignet trio - vanilla, chocolate, and hazelnut. 18-minute drive from the Jet Express.

Crabby Joe's Dockside

Full service restaurant

Crabby Joe's Dockside

Directions (from the Jet Express)
5927 Saylor St, Marblehead, OH 43440
Website (opens in new tab)

Located in the Anchors Away Marina complex, this on-the-water seafood restaurant offers great views of the marina, as well as a plentiful seafood menu and a full bar. The multi-level deck is located dockside. The menu includes fresh fish and shellfish dishes, including "Crabby's Steam Pots" with various shellfish combinations and steamed sides, as well as many non-seafood options. Plan to relax and spend some time (the service is not fast-paced), but between the atmosphere, the food, and the cocktails it's an enjoyable dining experience. Indoor seating is also available. 22-minute drive from the Jet Express.

Crow's Nest

Full service restaurant

Crow's Nest

Directions (from the Jet Express)
2170 N Buck Rd, Lakeside Marblehead, OH 43440
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This restaurant is located within the Anchors Away Marina complex and serves bar & grill and seafood fare, along with a full bar menu, in a scenic environment. The large patio includes swing seating, making for a pleasant and relaxing outdoor meal. The menu includes items from the smoker, such as pulled pork, smoked chicken, and brisket, in addition to various other options. Indoor seating is also available. 22-minute drive from the Jet Express.

Ciao Bella

Full service restaurant

Ciao Bella

Directions (from the Jet Express)
3880 East Harbor Light Landing Dr, Port Clinton, OH 43452
Website (opens in new tab)

This Italian restaurant offers a classic Italian menu and charming ambience indoors and out. The menu includes gourmet appetizers, pizzas, pastas, and chicken and seafood entrees. The lunch version of the menu also adds a sandwich selection. A full bar and an extensive wine list complement the food offerings. The patio overlooks a man-made pond with a beautiful view. 18-minute drive from the Jet Express.

JJ's Table and Bar

Full service restaurant

JJ's Table and Bar

Directions (from the Jet Express)
6982 E Harbor Rd, Lakeside Marblehead, OH 43440
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This uniquely inviting bistro-style restaurant and bar offers a varied menu, with an emphasis on seafood and an eclectic assortment of other options. The main dining room surrounds a sophisticated, elongated bar, which houses an impressive selection of liquor along with an extensive cocktail list. The semi-enclosed veranda provides a more rustic atmosphere and includes window-sill tables with outdoor seating. Dinner hours only. 21-minute drive from the Jet Express.

Canoe Club Wine Bar

Wine Bar

Canoe Club Wine Bar
Canoe Club Wine Bar
Canoe Club Wine Bar

Directions (from the Jet Express)
5831 E Harbor Rd, Lakeside Marblehead, OH 43440
Website (opens in new tab)

An on-premise art gallery adds to this wine bar's classy ambience. The wine list, which includes an extensive selection by the bottle and a nice-size subset by the glass, is complemented by a menu of gourmet small plates, sandwiches, and pizzas. Beer and mixed cocktail lists are also available. A lovely rear patio adorned with greenery offers nicely-shaded outdoor seating. A charming spot to come for a glass of wine and stay for dinner. Dinner hours only. 19-minute drive from the Jet Express.

Gideon Owen Wine Company

Full service restaurant

Gideon Owen Wine Company

Directions (from the Jet Express)
3845 E Wine Cellar Rd, Port Clinton, OH 43452
Website (opens in new tab)

This striking winery-restaurant sprawls over a vast compound and offers several indoor and outdoor areas for enjoying a meal and/or cocktails. The Tirage Wine Room is a uniquely designed tasting room, offering tastes of estate, domestic, and around-the-world wines. The Chalet is a spacious dining area with a prominent bar. In addition to the wine menu, the bar offerings include a signature cocktails list, as well as a list of brews from the neighboring Twin Oast brewery. The food menu includes gourmet appetizers, steaks, and seafood. Live music is not uncommon on the outdoor stage, which is visible from the patio tables, the swing seating, and the outdoor bar. 21-minute drive from the Jet Express.

Rocky Point Winery

Winery

Rocky Point Winery

Directions (from the Jet Express)
111 W Main St, Marblehead, OH 43440
Website (opens in new tab)

This winery is located within a few minutes of the Marblehead Lighthouse and justly reflects the vacation-like spirit of the peninsula. The covered pavilion provides a shaded place to enjoy the wine selections and snacks, while the open garden offers beautiful views and a relaxing atmosphere, including around-the-firepit seating. Live music is frequently performed on the outdoor stage. Wine offerings include estate-label wines as well as other brands, and tasting flights are available. 29-minute drive from the Jet Express.

Twin Oast Brewing

Brewery

Twin Oast Brewing
Twin Oast Brewing
Twin Oast Brewing

Directions (from the Jet Express)
3630 NE Catawba Rd, Port Clinton, OH 43452
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This local brewery creates its beers by combining traditional German offerings with modern American technique. The selection includes a handful of year-round brews, as well as various seasonal options. The food menu offers small plates, sandwiches, tacos, and pizza. Live music performances are a staple on weekends. The gorgeous property in the style of a Bavarian village is something out of a fairy tale. All kinds of outdoor seating options are offered throughout the beautiful gardens; indoor seating is also available. 25-minute drive from the Jet Express.

The Orchard Bar & Table

Full service restaurant

The Orchard Bar & Table

Directions (from the Jet Express)
3266 NE Catawba Rd, Port Clinton, OH 43452
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With a delectable menu, an elegant interior, a beautiful garden-style patio, attentive service, and at times live music, this restaurant offers a memorable dining experience. The menu of gourmet appetizers, seafood, steaks, and other delicacies is complemented by a selection of craft cocktails and an impressive wine list. Dinner hours only, with the exception of Sunday Brunch. 24-minute drive from the Jet Express.

Orchard Farm Stand

Full service restaurant and more

Orchard Farm Stand

Directions (from the Jet Express)
3350 NE Catawba Rd, Port Clinton, OH 43452
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Much more than just a farm stand, this venue is an unusual combination of farm market, vineyard, restaurant, outdoor bar, and coffee shop. The coffee shop offers espresso-based beverages and breakfast fare made from local farm ingredients. The restaurant menu includes appetizers, pizzas, flatbreads, and sandwiches and is complemented by an extensive craft cocktail list. This venue also periodically hosts live music performances. Both indoor and patio seating available. 24-minute drive from the Jet Express.

Milan / Norwalk

Invention Restaurant

Sit-down breakfast diner

Invention Restaurant

Directions (from the Jet Express)
15 N Main St, Milan, OH 44846
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This small-town diner is located on Milan's town square and offers a traditional breakfast menu, as well as lunch selections that include sandwiches, burgers, and spaghetti. As implied by the name, the decor is themed around Thomas Edison's life and work. Family-friendly environment with fast and friendly service. Indoor seating only. 22-minute drive from the Jet Express.

Jim's Pizza Box

Full service restaurant

Jim's Pizza Box

Directions (from the Jet Express)
10 N Main St, Milan, OH 44846
Website (opens in new tab)

A long-time local favorite and located on Milan's town square, Jim's serves tasty pizza and calzones, along with additional options such as wings and salads, available for dine-in, pick-up, or delivery. The menu offers a wide variety of toppings. A recent addition is a cocktail bar in the adjacent space. Indoor seating only. 22-minute drive from the Jet Express.

Milan Wine Post

Wine Bar and wine shop

Milan Wine Post

Directions (from the Jet Express)
1 N Main St, Milan, OH 44846
Website (opens in new tab)

A quintessential Hallmark Town local gathering spot located on the town square of a quintessential Hallmark Town, this wine bar and shop combines small-town charm with big-time flair. In addition to wines offered by the glass, any of the extensive selection of wines from the shop shelves can be enjoyed by the bottle with a nominal corkage fee. A variety of beers, a craft cocktail list, and a small-plates menu round out the offerings. A small patio with a view of the square holds just a couple of tables. Live music is performed on many Saturday nights. 22-minute drive from the Jet Express.

Village Drive Thru

Convenience store and ice cream shop

Village Drive Thru
Village Drive Thru
Village Drive Thru

Directions (from the Jet Express)
1 W Front St, Milan, OH 44846
Website (opens in new tab)

This convenience store and ice cream shop located on Milan's town square serves Toft's ice cream in a wide variety of flavors. A couple of tables are provided inside the shop, as well as another couple outside, to enjoy the ice cream on-site. Toft's ice cream is a decades-long favorite throughout North-Central Ohio and is made from Toft's hormone-free milk. This gem of an ice cream shop is a perfect fit for Milan's quaint small-town vibe. Additionally, this convenience store offers a nice selection of wine to take back the Loft. 22-minute drive from the Jet Express.

Sheri's Coffee House

Coffee shop

Sheri's Coffee House

Directions (from the Jet Express)
27 Whittlesey Ave, Norwalk, OH 44857
Website (opens in new tab)

This spacious coffee shop offers a standard menu of espresso-based beverages and coffee/tea, along with pastries and bagels. A separate large room down the hall from the main shop area has plenty of outlets and provides a comfortable place to work on a laptop. A small side-walk patio is available. 29-minute drive from the Jet Express.

Main Street Cafe of Norwalk

Sit-down breakfast diner

Main Street Cafe of Norwalk

Directions (from the Jet Express)
5 E Main St, Norwalk, OH 44857
Website (opens in new tab)

This hole-in-the-wall diner offers a fast and tasty breakfast for those with small appetites as well as for those who enjoy hefty portions. A la carte items such as single slice of French toast, extra egg, etc. are available either as a light snack or to mix & match, in addition to traditional breakfast entrees and combos. A diner-style lunch menu is also available. Indoor seating only. 29-minute drive from the Jet Express.

Casa Fiesta

Full service restaurant

Casa Fiesta

Directions (from the Jet Express)
344 Milan Ave, Norwalk, OH 44857
Website (opens in new tab)

This fun and inviting Mexican eatery serves a vast and tasty menu of traditional food offerings, along with an extensive list of traditional and flavored margaritas as well as other selections from their full bar. The bright colors of Mexican-themed decor extend from the dining room out to the patio. Friendly service and great-tasting food in a family-friendly environment add up to an enjoyable dining experience. 24-minute drive from the Jet Express.

Suki Asian Cuisine

Full service restaurant

Suki Asian Cuisine

Directions (from the Jet Express)
187 Milan Ave, Norwalk, OH 44857
Website (opens in new tab)

A plentiful menu of sushi selections, along with kitchen appetizers and entrees, sake, and other cocktails from a full bar, are offered in this non-chain Japanese eatery with pleasant decor and cordial staff. While the sushi portions are smaller than typical, the prices are also very reasonable. Indoor seating only. 26-minute drive from the Jet Express.

Casa Bravos

Full service restaurant

Casa Bravos

Directions (from the Jet Express)
203 Cline St, Norwalk, OH 44857
Website (opens in new tab)

This Mexican restaurant's menu includes not only the typical dishes found in most similar eateries but also authentic delicacies such as cow tongue, cow cheek, and tripe. A full bar is available, with a generous selection of traditional and flavored margaritas. Indoor seating only. 27-minute drive from the Jet Express.

Sandy Ridge Vineyards & Mercantile

Winery

Sandy Ridge Vineyards & Mercantile

Directions (from the Jet Express)
180 State Rte 61, Norwalk, OH 44857
Website (opens in new tab)

This lovely winery features not only a varied list of estate and around-the-world wines but also a gourmet food menu and gorgeous outdoor seating areas. In addition to a spacious umbrellaed patio, the view of the grounds can be enjoyed from a grassy area with rustic-style chairs surrounding a cozy firepit. Indoor seating is also available. 29-minute drive from the Jet Express.