Jessica Holbrook taste-tests the Belgian waffle, Eggs over easy, Scrambled eggs with hot cakes, A side of bacon, A side of sausage, Rye toast, A French Dip sandwich, A hot roast beef sandwich, A Rueben, A breakfast muffin and Texas sheet cake at Lindsey’s Restaurant.
Jessica Holbrook taste-tests the Deluxe pizza, Margherita pizza, Garlic knots, a Meatball Calzone, the Cobb salad and German Chocolate Cheesecake at Old School Pizza.
I assume that Sparta Steak House & Lounge has—with the exception of new televisions—looked exactly the same since about 1975. It’s the definition of old school with well-worn vinyl booths, carved wood fixtures and hanging greenery.
I assume that before becoming a true resident of Massillon, you’re required to eat at the Cameo Grill. The bar and restaurant, which has been locally owned and operated since 1944, just has that authentic hometown feeling. The walls are covered in vintage photographs and Massillon Tigers memorabilia—you can grab a football schedule at the bar—and the wait staff seemed to know most customers by name.
Sometimes, looks can be deceiving. I’ve driven past Willow Bistro easily hundreds of times but, put off by its location in a shabby shopping plaza on 30th Street NW, never thought to check it out. That’s on me. Willow was a pleasant surprise and a place I’d be more than happy to revisit.
As I walked in the door with an armful of pizza from Baja West Coast Kitchen, I was greeted with some confusion. “I thought we were reviewing a taco place?” It’s a fair question. The fast-casual restaurant formerly known as Baja Pizza Fish is either a pizza place with decent tacos or a taco place with excellent pizza.
When someone mentions grabbing dinner in downtown Canton, my first suggestion is usually George’s Lounge. The Canton mainstay dates back to 1959 and is the second-oldest continually operating bar in downtown Canton. Its current iteration in the downtown Arts District is known for its inexpensive drinks and uniquely delicious bar food.
Upscale dinners are great and all, but there’s something to be said for getting down and dirty with simple, delicious, inexpensive food. This was easily one of the messiest dinners I’ve ever had. Jimmy’s Backyard BBQ is worth a visit, but I’d avoid wearing white.
I have to respect a restaurant that embraces its identity. People flock to the Winking Lizard for beer and bar food, and the restaurant is excellent at both of those things. With the exception of rotating seasonal menus, the menu doesn’t stray too far from those basics.
It’s probably a good thing that Shy Cellars is so far out of my way. The intimate Strasburg eatery is nearly perfect with delicious food, wonderful service and possibly the best dessert I’ve ever eaten. If it wasn’t an hour from home, I could see myself spending way too much money way too often.
