Embark on a Foodie Trip
Exploring Local Foodie Destinations Around Portage County
The Joy of Foodie Travel
For many, travel isn’t just about seeing new sights—it’s about tasting new flavors. Taking a foodie trip is a delicious way to immerse yourself in local culture, history, and community. From local farmers markets and artisan bakeries to unique local restaurants and hidden family-run cafés, every destination offers a unique culinary adventure.
Planning Your Portage County Foodie Adventure
Begin by deciding how many days you want to spend in the area, then decide what type of foodie experience you want to have. For example, do you want to sample local dishes that made a restaurant famous, like Guido’s famous lasagna or Ray’s MoFo Burger. Or do you want to visit restaurants that offer a little history or views. Or maybe you just want to visit a few of the restaurants that make online influencer lists Knowing what to seek out will make your trip more rewarding.
- Once you have determined when you will be visiting, make reservations, not all restaurants take reservations, but popular restaurants often book up quickly, so reserve when possible.
- Explore Local Markets: Farmers’ markets and street vendors are treasure troves of authentic flavors and seasonal ingredients. One of our favorite farmers’ market happens every Saturday morning in Downtown Kent. The Haymakers Farmers’ Market is held year-round, changing to an indoor location every winter. The selection of vendors is great. From locally produced vegetables to local honey and maple syrup, you are sure to find a few things to take home and enjoy.
Experiencing Portage Through Cuisine
Food reflects the heart of a community. Sharing a meal, tasting local produce, or chatting with vendors at the market connects you with the stories and traditions of a place. Be open to trying unfamiliar ingredients and asking locals for recommendations, they know where the best bites are found!
Top Tips for Foodie Travelers
- Be Adventurous: Sample dishes you’ve never tried before. Sometimes, the most memorable meals are the ones you didn’t expect.
- Balance and pace your dining experiences. To much of one type of food may not offer you the best experience, Move out of your comfort zone. It’s a foodie tour.
- Document Your Journey: Take photos, jot notes, and share your experiences on social media. Tag: @ExplorePortageOH on Facebook and Instagram.
A Few of Our Area’s Popular Foodie Destinations
- Guido’s, Ravenna – Voted “Best Lasagna” by Cleveland.com readers.
- Lake House Kitchen + Bar, Kent – You will find some of the best Fish-n-Chips at Lake House, as well as views. (Article photo.)
- Mike’s Place, Kent – It’s hard to describe Mike’s Place. This local favorite stop with requires extra time to read the menu. Did we mention there is a replica Jedi plane outside?
Ray’s Place - Ray’s Place, Kent – This local stop has a lot of history and is home of the famous “MoFo Burger”. The burger that Chef Michael Simon once stated was the “best burger he ever ate”.
HEAD TO CHURCH – There are two repurposed churches in Portage County. One turned into a Meadery and the other a Brewery. Both are worth a road trip too.
- Crafted Artisan Meadery, Suffield – Built in 1881, the historic 19thcentury church has been given a new life as the Tap Room and production facility for one of the oldest fermented beverages. A lot of care has gone into preserving many of the churches’ features, like the choir loft. The mead flights are a great way to enjoy various meads.
- Bell Tower Brewing Co, – Kent’s neighborhood pub that not only creates their own craft beers, but the seasonal food from the kitchen will also have your taste buds saying thank you. Make sure you try their Bavarian Style Pretzel.
Don’t Forget Dessert!
Not only do many of our local restaurants offer their delicious take on dessert, Portage County has its own list of “sweet trail” stops. From chocolate covered popcorn to to those addicting Duffins at Top Tier Pastry. You are sure to find something for your sweet tooth.
Conclusion: Savor the Journey
Foodie trips turn travel into an epicurean adventure. They’re more than just eating, they’re about discovering, connecting, and celebrating the flavors that make each area unique. So, pack your appetite, bring an open mind, and let your tastebuds lead the way!
Need help planning your getaway? Visit centralportagevcb.org.
Don’t forget to order your FREE area visitor guide.
Article and Photo credits: Central Portage County VCB
