
Does the term "supper club" conjure up visions of exclusive restaurants where Frank Sinatra and his Rat Pack caroused over steaks and martinis? In reality, Midwest supper clubs offer fine dining and socializing in a more widely accessible setting.
Here's a brief look at the history of this enduring American classic, along with a list of the best supper clubs around Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati.
Supper clubs are often associated with Los Angeles and New York City, but the Midwest is deep in their DNA. In fact, the first supper club was opened in Beverly Hills, CA by a native of Milwaukee.
In their heyday during the 1930s, supper clubs were meant to be an outing for an entire evening. Contemporary supper clubs are less formal but retain the emphasis on traditional meat-and-seafood menus and lively social interaction.
1148 Main Ave., Cleveland, OH 44113
Located in the iconic Flats of downtown Cleveland, Music Box Supper Club is truly a one-stop entertainment venue. Downstairs, guests dine on a menu of short ribs, fresh seafood, and other favorites prepared with some Caribbean flair. Upstairs is the concert hall that has hosted noted musical acts such as John Hiatt, Rufus Wainwright, the Smithereens, and Lucinda Williams. The supper club opens at 5 p.m. Thursday through Saturday and 11 a.m. Sunday. From Monday through Wednesday, dining is available only for concerts and other events.
14 N. State St., Westerville, OH 43081
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As indicated by its slogan, "Exclusive - but Inclusive," Asterisk Supper Club aims to make elegant dining accessible to all. In addition to lunch and dinner of comfort food favorites, Asterisk offers traditional high tea daily from noon - 4 p.m. Sip on your choice of tea while nibbling on scones, sandwiches, and other accompaniments. Westerville was once known as the "Dry Capital of the World," but today Asterisk serves an assortment of classic and craft cocktails. Hours are noon - 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, noon - 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and noon - 8 p.m. Sunday.
2919 State Route 430, Mansfield, OH 44903
While steak is a mainstay on the menu of most supper clubs, Oak Park Tavern is also known for its signature Lake Erie yellow perch. Sit at the bar and watch as your meal is prepared in the open kitchen. If you prefer a different view, relax outside on the all-season patio. Oak Park Tavern is open 3 - 8 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday and 3 - 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
940 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43201
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A Midwest tradition takes on global flavors at Ampersand Asian Supper Club. Thanks to its sophisticated dining room and creative menu, Ampersand earned a spot on Columbus Monthly's list of Best New Restaurants in 2020. Customers rave about the rich miso soup and the binge-worthy nori fries, but the ramen dishes are the real stars of the show. Favorites include the mushroom-forward Fungus Among Us and pork-studded Tonkatsu. Ampersand is open daily from 11:30 a.m. - 9 p.m.
797 Miamisburg-Centerville Rd., Dayton, OH 45459
Fans of nostalgia will love Paragon Supper Club, where the ambiance takes you back to the 1970s. Opened in 1978, the Paragon retains the brick wall, wood accents, and chandelier lighting of that era. Ribeye and filet mignon are highlights of the classic upscale menu, but check out the daily chef's features such as sauerbraten and 32-ounce Wagyu tomahawk. Hours are 5 - 10 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, 5 - 11 p.m. Friday, 4:45 - 11 p.m. Saturday, and 5 - 9 p.m. Sunday.
94 N. High St., Dublin, OH 43017
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Can't decide between an upscale steakhouse or casual pub? Get the best of both at The Avenue Steak Tavern. The menu includes steaks, side dishes, and other classic supper club fare along with pub favorites such as roast beef on weck and crispy hot chicken biscuit. Save room for the banana bread pudding, a customer favorite topped with hazelnut chocolate and caramel. The Avenue is open 4 - 9 p.m. daily, with extended hours until 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.
4250 Chief Woods Lane, Moraine, OH 45439
Founded in 1961, Treasure Island Supper Club started out as a modest diner frequented by local General Motors employees. It has since grown to become a popular gathering place known for its spectacular U-shaped handmade wooden bar. The extensive collections of area memorabilia add to the community feel. Many customers recommend the house salad dressing, described as, "poppy seed dressing without the seeds." Hours are 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
580 Walnut St., Ste. 100, Cincinnati, OH 45202
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Prime Cincinnati's mission statement couldn't be more simple or more profound: "A passion to serve." That passion comes through in everyone, from the chef to the wait staff. Looking for a place to unwind after work? Stop by for $7 MidWeek Martinis and some shareables from the happy hour menu. Enjoy live music on Wednesday and Friday or catch the big game on one of the 4K high-definition TVs. Dinner is served seven days a week and lunch is available weekdays from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
1926 Brown St., Dayton, OH 45409
True to its old-school roots, The Pine Club doesn't accept credit cards or reservations. Even George and Barbara Bush were once told it would be a 45-minute wait for a table. But the restaurant's four-star food and luxurious ambiance have gained national acclaim from the New York Times, Gourmet Magazine, and Cooking Channel, where The Pine Club was featured on "The Best Thing I Ever Ate." Hours are 4:30 - 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 4 - 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
If money (and calories) were no object, what would be the must-have items for your dream dinner?

Whether you're sick, chilly, or just feeling down, there's nothing like chicken noodle soup to get you feeling like yourself again. It's a specialty of moms and grandmas everywhere, and no other version will ever quite measure up to the one that was always served to you as a child.
If your family's cooking is not an option right now, though, there are plenty of places to get a comforting cup of soup in Northeast Ohio. With National Chicken Soup for the Soul Day coming up on November 12th, now is the perfect time to check one or two of the popular soup spots listed below.
2120 Byrd Ave., Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44223
Pallotta's Pastries might not sound like a place where soup would be served, but this establishment is much more than just a bakery. They also sell a variety of fresh-cooked meals, including sandwiches, pastas, and omelets. Their excellent chicken soup is a local favorite and is available all week in addition to a rotating soup of the day.
If you have a sweet tooth, they also sell an assortment of baked goods, including breads, muffins, cookies, and cakes. All their food is homemade and as gorgeous to look at as it is delicious to eat.
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Berlin's Plain and Simple Diner lives up to its name in the best possible way. Run by a pair of home cooks who had a reputation for delicious barbecue in their community, this restaurant uses nothing but fresh ingredients in all of their dishes.
This diner serves hot dogs, hamburgers, wraps, fried fish, chicken wings, and all kinds of other comfort foods – including, of course, chicken noodle soup. It's available in a bowl or a cup and tastes very similar to the home-cooked recipes you remember from childhood.
1707 Vernon Odom Blvd., Akron, OH 44320
Primo's Deli has been named Akron's #1 Deli by the Akron Beacon Journal three times in its 35-year history, so you know they're worth a visit! Many locals love coming here for hot dogs, burgers, salads, sandwiches, and beer.
Their chicken soup is especially well-loved, featuring a rich broth, savory chunks of chicken, and distinctive shell noodles. It's only available on an occasional basis as part of their soup of the day specials, though, so be sure to call and ask when it will be available next before you head out to give this place a try.
3265 W. Market St., Fairlawn, OH 44333
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Located inside Fairlawn's Summit Mall, Hello Bistro has become a popular dining and takeout spot in their local community. You can get their delectable chicken noodle soup by the cup or the quart, depending on your needs. Still hungry? They also serve fresh-cut French fries, grilled cheese sandwiches, burgers, salad bowls, and more.
The nice thing about this place is that there are many healthy options to pair with your soup, allowing you to round out your meal with some extra nutrition. There are plenty of vegan and gluten-free options if you are dining with others with specific dietary needs.
5187 Manchester Rd., New Franklin, OH 44319
A favorite lunch destination for New Franklin residents, PLX Deli serves soups, salads, sandwiches, and everything else you need for a hearty midday meal. Their homemade chicken soup is available every Saturday and Sunday and is one of their most popular menu items among regulars.
If you need a little more to fill you up, the shop also serves a selection of signature entrees like Country Fried Steak and Bourbon Chicken. These dishes stick to the deli's general comfort food angle while also giving you something a bit more substantial to chew on.
7501 Carnegie Ave., Cleveland, OH 44103
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The aptly named SouperMarket is a specialty restaurant that serves nothing but – you guessed it – soup. Their Pulled Chicken Noodle soup is one of their staple offerings and is available all week long. All of their soups are served with a sizable chunk of bread and butter. If you're still hungry, you can round out your meal with a grilled cheese sandwich or a box of chicken wings fried in duck fat.
The shop also offers chicken stock by the quart or gallon, which can serve as a delicious savory base for your own soups at home. Neither the stock nor the soup contain any additives or preservatives. Both are also low in sodium, making them great options for people following a heart-healthy diet.
11750 Madison Ave., Lakewood, OH 44107
Joe's Deli and Restaurant is one of many establishments run by the Abdallahs, a Lebanese family who immigrated to America in the 1950s and 60s. This shop serves a variety of specialty sandwiches alongside traditional Lebanese dishes, including dawali, kibbee, and baba ganooj.
Their esteemed chicken soup can be purchased in cups, bowls, or to-go quart containers. All of their soups are only available as part of a rotating selection, but no single type of soup is ever unavailable for more than a few days. If the chicken soup isn't on the menu when you first visit, come back a little later — it's worth it!
7402 Detroit Ave., Cleveland, OH 44102
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Local West describes themselves as a craft sandwich and beer bistro, but like any great sandwich shop, they also offer a selection of soups on the side. Their chicken soup is just one of the many soup varieties that they cycle through daily.
Their dishes are made with local meats and cheeses for maximum freshness and a uniquely Midwestern flavor. Stop by for lunch today and see what keeps people coming back again and again!
We all know chicken soup doesn't really cure colds or stop the sniffles, but it still has an undeniable healing power all its own. What's your best chicken soup story?

Thanksgiving dinner doesn't feel complete without several pies, but making them yourself can be time-consuming as well as difficult. Why not leave the task up to the experts and order pies in various flavors that will impress your holiday guests?
Start planning your menu now and check out these great places to order Thanksgiving pies from in Northeast Ohio.
624 Belden Ave NE, Canton, OH 44704
Norcia Bakery has a long history of success and was founded in 1918 by the Norcia family, who immigrated from Italy. The bakery offers fresh-baked bread and pastries, including a variety of pies at affordable prices, so it's a great place to order several different flavors to end your Thanksgiving dinner on a sweet note. While you're there, pick up some of the bread, an authentic Italian split-top loaf made using the original bread recipe that John Norcia brought from Italy.
17001 Madison Ave. Lakewood, OH 44107
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If you've had a slice of pie with your meal at Rood Food + Pie or have visited the restaurant's pie bar, you'll want to make one of their unique creations part of your holiday menu. For a more sophisticated take on the classic banana cream pie, try their version that's made with bananas in spiked vanilla pudding with brandy-soaked vanilla wafers and topped with fresh whipped cream and a brandy caramel drizzle. Or impress your guests with the Amaretto Custard, which in addition to its rich custard, has a vanilla almond butter crust, whipped cream, toasted almonds, and smoked sea salt.
620 Ridgewood Crossing Dr., Akron, OH 44333
Serving up pies, cakes, and pastries like cannoli and doughnuts for over 40 years, Tiffany's Bakery will have you drooling over their large menu of tasty sweets. Pie choices include traditional favorites like apple and cherry as well as cream pies. The shop takes pride in making sure pies look as good as they taste, and it's received several local Best Bakery honors as proof of its success.
2307 Lee Rd., Cleveland Heights, OH 44118
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This cozy Cleveland Heights bakery got its start as Craig's Divine Desserts, a licensed, home-based bakery that was successful enough to expand. All of its baked goods are prepared on-site, including cakes, cookies, and pies by the slice or whole pies. Order a traditional favorite like a sweet potato or key lime pie, and add in pineapple supreme and decadent Oreo pies.
26075 Detroit Rd., Westlake, OH 44145
You're sure to find lots to order at Gray House Pies, which serves a large variety of pies including, fruit, cream, specialty, and savory pies. All are homemade, including the butter crusts, and when milk and eggs are used, they're organic and free-range, respectively. You won't find any fillers, preservatives, or canned fruit used, either. Try a Four Berry Buzzed Friends pie made with four types of berries as well as brandy and honey, a pumpkin pecan crumble pie, or a crapple (cranberry/apple). Or, if you'd prefer a savory pie to serve alongside your turkey, order a mac n cheese (plain or with bacon) or loaded potato, each made with a flaky pastry crust.
7011 W. 130th St., Parma Heights, OH 44130
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Many people like to enjoy a meal at Bakers Square Restaurant & Pies, and the highlight is often a slice of pie for dessert. Many of the restaurant's pies have won multiple awards, so they've proven to be deliciously popular. You can order whole pies to take home for Thanksgiving, including the triple berry, which is bursting with the fruity flavor of raspberries, blueberries, and boysenberries. You'll also find favorites like pecan, cherry, and apple (which also comes in a reduced sugar option) on the menu, as well as the most popular option — a French silk pie with smooth chocolate silk covered with real whipped cream and milk chocolate curls inside the pastry crust.
426 Main St., Grafton, OH 44044
Nancy's Main Street Diner has become well known locally for its cakes and pies, most of which can be made in sugar-free varieties and full-sugar versions. The diner serves cream, fruit, and Dutch fruit pies, including raspberry and coconut cream options. For full-on, belt-loosening decadence, go for the Elvis Pie, which has a peanut butter crumble crust and layers of fresh banana slices, peanut buttercream, banana cream, homemade peanut butter sauce, whipped cream, and vanilla wafers.
2303 W. Market St., Akron, OH 44313
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The West Side Bakery has garnered a loyal following since its opening in 1995. It's been honored for 13 years by Akron Life Magazine as the Best Local Bakery and also earned the award for Akron's Best Bakery from the readers of the Akron Beacon Journal. Choose from pies like pecan and pumpkin, as well as bumbleberry, buckeye, hot fudge, peach raspberry, and more. They look just as good as they taste, so they'll make a beautiful addition to your Thanksgiving table.
What's your favorite type of pie to find on the Thanksgiving table?

Whether you're a wine connoisseur or just someone who would like to try different varieties and learn about them, Northeast Ohio is the ideal place to create your own winery tour. Its fertile soil and climate make it a prime location to grow grapes, as evidenced by its many local wineries. They offer a relaxed atmosphere and are often family-owned, so you'll be able to learn about their history and offerings. Some also offer food ranging from small bites to full meals, as well as weekend entertainment.
Check out the following nine places to consider as you create your own Northeast Ohio Winery tour.
11303 Kinsman Rd., Newbury Township, OH 44065
Try one of several handcrafted wines at Sharon James Cellars, where you'll find reds, whites, and roses named after virtues like vitality and compassion. The property has a tasting room if you prefer to enjoy your wine indoors, as well as an outdoor patio and open-air outdoor pavilion if you like to relax outside with your wine. The winery also has a full-service kitchen and full-time chef, so you can indulge in deliciously fresh meals prepared using local ingredients. Try a pizza or panini, or order a delicious appetizer or two such as fresh hummus and veggies or a cheese plate.
37484 N. Industrial Pkwy., Willoughby, OH 44094
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You'll be able to see the entire production process at Urban Vintner, watching the transformation from grape to bottled wine. It's co-owned by award-winning winemaker Ed Trebets, who has won over 1,000 medals in his winemaking career. Sample several with a visit to the Tasting Room, which is open on Fridays and Saturdays. And if you'd like to try even more varieties, the winery offers a wine club that includes selections that are locally produced as well as ones that are globally sourced.
17335 Nash Rd., Middlefield, OH 44062
This small boutique winery makes most of its wines from vinifera grapes grown right on the property. Schedule your visit for a weekend if possible, when the tasting room is open, but it's also open by appointment if you'd like to visit at another time. The vineyard also frequently hosts live entertainment on Fridays and/or Saturdays, so order a glass of your favorite selection and relax while you enjoy the music.
7918 Pettibone Rd., Chagrin Falls, OH 44023
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Wines are produced and blended on-site at Blind Squirrel winery, and they're selected to appeal to a wide range of tastes. Some additional wines are offered seasonally. The tasting room is open Thursdays through Saturdays from 4-9 p.m., so try some different types and settle on a full glass or two of your favorite.
4275 Bates Rd., Madison, OH 44057
If Stonegait Winery has a rustic barn-like appearance, that's because it once was a barn on a former horse farm. The owners purchased the barn after planting their vineyard and waiting four years, and they then renovated the barn to transform it into a winery. It now offers a full food menu along with an extensive list of wine offerings that you're welcome to enjoy by the bottle, glass, or taste. Fridays or Saturdays are a good time to visit if you'd like to enjoy live music along with your food and wine.
6062 South Ridge Rd. W, Geneva, OH 44041
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The Winery at Spring Hill has a friendly, relaxing feel, and although wine is its centerpiece, it also offers much more. In addition to a selection of handcrafted wines ranging from dry to sweet, their wine bar also serves unique hard ciders, craft beers from local breweries, and cocktails made with liquor from local distilleries. Food is also available, and you can choose a snack, meal, or one of the bakery's delicious desserts.
541 Atkins Rd., Geneva, OH 44041
The Virant family spans 3 generations of winemakers, the latest of whom currently own the winery. Their 11 selections are made to have a crisp grape taste along with a pleasant aftertaste. They pair well with the winery's weekly snack food menu along with their more extensive menu for the weekends, when you can order steak, chicken, or ribs and listen to live music.
4511 Bates Rd., Madison, OH 44057
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Silver Crest Cellars uses grapes from their family vineyards that date back to the 1930s, along with grapes from other local growers. Try their wines by the bottle, glass, or taste in a relaxing indoor or outdoor seating area. You'll be able to choose from old-world as well as new-world varieties, in addition to local and historical varieties and blends.
7840 Doty Rd., Madison, OH 44057
The largest estate winery in Ohio, Debonne Vineyards has over 175 acres of grapevines. The vineyard is known for its newer varieties and original blends and has also opened its own microbrewery. To learn about the entire winemaking process, schedule a tour that includes four samples of wine as well as cheese and crackers. You can also choose a tasting tray of your favorite type of wine, such as dry red or Riesling, and you'll get a souvenir glass, bottled water, crackers, and chocolate. And if you're ready for a meal, a casual food menu is also available. You might want to time your visit to coincide with one of the many events hosted by the winery, including a home winemaking class, fun run, bocce ball tournament, or motorcycle rally.
What are some of your favorite wineries in Northeast Ohio?

Buckeyes are a popular treat in the state of Ohio. Who wouldn't love these balls of peanut butter coated in chocolate? Whether you're a dedicated buckeyes fan or someone hoping to experience them for the first time, you just have to take a trip along the Ohio Buckeye Candy Trail. This trail takes you to various bakeshops and candy stores, each serving its own version of buckeyes. Here are some of the top stops along the Ohio Buckeye Candy Trail.
Haute Chocolate is an incredible candy store in Cincinnati. They've been in business since 1979 and have gained quite a reputation for their buckeyes. As you step into the small, brick building, you'll be greeted by the scent of chocolate and peanut butter — and you'll know something delicious awaits.
The owner is usually in the store at Haute Chocolate, and they can tell you all about their chocolate-making process. In addition to classic chocolate buckeyes, they also make white chocolate buckeyes, which are a must for any white chocolate fan. The chocolate-covered strawberries are also incredible if you're looking for something to accompany your buckeyes. Eating the buckeyes and strawberries side by side is almost like having a peanut butter and jelly sandwich.
317 Main St., Milford, OH 45150
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Tickled Sweet is located in the downtown area of Milford. They were named Score Business of the Year in 2017! You can spend an hour or two walking around to nearby shops and restaurants before stopping in for some buckeyes. They're made in-house, and they're served with a smile.
In addition to buckeyes, Tickled Sweet offers an assortment of fudge and macarons. Their macarons come in fun flavors like key lime and birthday cake, and they're sold individually.
101 E. Alex Bell Rd., Centerville, OH 45459
Bellbrook Chocolate Shoppe was founded in 1984 and has remained a family business ever since. The shop is housed in a small brick building. Inside, shelves of packaged chocolates draw you in with their beauty. There's also a deli-style service counter where you can have chocolate packaged individually to order.
Bellbrook Chocolate Shoppe sells traditional buckeyes with a milk chocolate exterior. The peanut butter centers are especially creamy! They come in packages of 6, 12, or 24, so you can bring a few home to share. If you're looking for something to enjoy alongside your buckeyes, you can't go wrong with the shortbread. Known as "Aunt Laura's shortbread," it's incredibly delicate with a nice brown sugar flavor.
1777 Arlingate Lane, Columbus, OH 43228
If you're in or around Columbus, make sure you stop by Anthony Thomas for some buckeyes. This large candy store is family-operated, and they manage to turn out 50,000 pounds of chocolate each year.
The buckeyes here are described as "really peanut buttery" and smooth. They come individually wrapped, so you can try one here and there without worrying about the rest of the package spoiling. Buy a 12-piece or 24-piece box if you plan on sharing. Anthony Thomas also sells Ohio Baskets, which are shaped like the state of Ohio and filled with classic candies like buckeyes, chocolate-covered pretzels, and caramel corn.
1855 Northwest Blvd., Columbus, OH 43212
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If you want to eat some lunch or breakfast alongside your buckeyes, this is the place to go. Chocolate Cafe has a menu with soups, salads, sandwiches, wine, cocktails, and even omelets. But the chocolate is definitely the star of the show.
The buckeyes at Chocolate Cafe are hand-rolled, and they sell for $1 apiece. They also offer buckeye pretzels, which is a fun twist on the classic. You might be tempted to order some truffles or mini cupcakes to bring home, too.
220 E. Kossuth St., Columbus, OH 43206
This shop may be named after fudge, but don't let that fool you. They still have some of the best buckeyes in Columbus. The centers are incredibly smooth and creamy, and they're dipped in real Belgian chocolate. You can buy the buckeyes in boxes of 6 or 15.
Definitely take the opportunity to sample the fudge while you're at Schmidt's, too. The plain chocolate is a classic, but the butter pecan is incredible if you're a nut lover. Schmidt's Fudge Haus is located in the Historic German Village, so feel free to take a walk around as you enjoy your sweets.
Sweetie's Chocolates is an enormous candy store located directly next to Grandpa's Cheesebarn, an enormous cheese store. If you're in Northeast Ohio, you absolutely need to visit both. They offer lots of free samples and have an incredible selection of both cheeses and sweets.
Sweetie's offers buckeyes dipped in both milk and dark chocolate. They even offer miniature buckeyes, which they sell in a big tub suitable for sharing. Other tasty treats include chocolate-covered pretzels, caramels, and fudge. The licorice candy, which comes in many flavors, is also a favorite.
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Honadle's doesn't take shortcuts, sourcing as many ingredients as possible from local companies, and they always use the freshest, best-quality items possible. This really shows in the quality of their buckeyes and chocolates. Honadle's is a stop on the Ohio Buckeye Trail that you don't want to skip.
The buckeyes here come in milk and dark chocolate versions, and they're sold in a 12-count box. The sea salt caramels are a great treat to order if you're looking for something extra.
100 Victoria Rd., Youngstown, OH 44515
Everything at Butter Maid Bakery is made in small batches, using old-fashioned recipes and traditional ingredients. They've been around since 1903, so they've had plenty of time to master their craft! In addition to the buckeyes, customers love their kalochi, and it's definitely worth a try.
Butter Maid Bakery's buckeyes are larger than most. The filling is also a bit softer than you might be used to since they're made with a higher proportion of peanut butter. They're sold in 12-count boxes, so you'll have enough to share.
As you travel along the Ohio Buckeye Trail, your taste buds are sure to be pleased! Which one of these candy stores are you most excited to visit?