Buckeye Lake is more than just a beautiful body of water; it’s a place where you can find a wide variety of restaurants and bars, ranging from cozy, casual spots to more upscale places.
The lake atmosphere adds a little something extra to every meal.
This guide will help you find the best restaurants on Buckeye Lake, whether you’re visiting for the first time or you’re a long-time resident. We’ll show you everything the area has to offer, from lakeside dining with scenic views to family-friendly establishments with live music.
Lakeside Casual Dining: Pubs, Grills & More
Buckeye Lake has more than its fair share of casual dining spots. Here are a few favorites.
Waterfront Pubs and Grills
For a casual bite with entertainment, try:
- Flip Flops Dockside Grill, accessible by land or water.
- Papa Boo’s, a popular spot known for its lively atmosphere and lake views. Check their website for live music and special events.
- Beach House Pub, which is known for its relaxed vibe and lakeside views.
Family-Friendly Options
If you’re looking for a place to take the kids, try one of these:
- Champs Pizza & Pub, a casual spot with pizza and pub fare.
- Hometown Hot Dogs, a laid-back restaurant where you can grab a quick and easy meal of classic American food.
Specialty cuisine: Barbecue, Mexican & More
If you’re looking for something specific, Buckeye Lake has a few restaurants specializing in barbecue or Mexican fare.
Authentic Barbecue
For barbecue, you have a couple of choices:
- The Port Smokehouse. This popular restaurant features live entertainment, dry-rubbed barbecue, and access by land or water. They usually open in late April.
- Pappy D’s Island House. If you’re looking for something a little different, Pappy D’s offers an island-inspired barbecue experience with smoked meats and tropical cocktails.
Mexican Flavors
If you’re in the mood for Mexican food, here are two options:
- Buckeye Lake Margaritas. This restaurant offers a variety of Mexican dishes and, of course, margaritas, in a festive atmosphere.
- Si Senor Taco Mexican Grill. If you’re looking for a casual and affordable option, Si Senor Taco offers authentic Mexican cuisine with a focus on tacos.
Sweet Treats and Coffee Breaks
Sometimes, you just need a little something sweet, or perhaps a caffeine jolt. Here are a few places around Buckeye Lake to get your sugar and caffeine fix.
Ice Cream Delights
- Weldon’s Ice Cream. Weldon’s is known for its homemade ice cream and its long history on Buckeye Lake. They offer all sorts of flavors and classic ice cream treats, like cones, sundaes, and milkshakes.
- Two Bros Slushy Bar. If you’re looking for a refreshing treat on a hot day, Two Bros Slushy Bar offers a variety of slushies and other frozen delights.
Coffee and Baked Goods
- Coffee Shack Coffee Roasters & Café. The Coffee Shack offers freshly roasted coffee and a variety of baked goods. It’s a great place to start the day or take a coffee break.
- Karen’s Bakery and Custom Cakes. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving a sweet treat, Karen’s Bakery offers a variety of baked goods and custom cakes.
Beyond the Plate: Entertainment and Accessibility
Buckeye Lake restaurants offer more than just good food. Many have patios and feature live music during the warmer months. Check local listings to find out who’s playing when and where.
The Port Smokehouse is one such venue.
Accessibility and Transportation
One of the great things about Buckeye Lake is that many of its restaurants are accessible by either land or water. So whether you’re arriving by car or boat, you’ll have no trouble finding a place to dock or park.
If you’re visiting the lake, you can choose from several transportation options, including shuttles and party buses.
Here are a couple of shuttle services you might want to check out:
- Lake Life Shuttle Service: About \$10.00 per person per trip (up to 4 people). A \$10.00 per trip, or a \$40.00 all-day unlimited ride ticket is offered for Winterfest.
- The Barr Hopper: About \$5.00 per stop, or \$30.00 for the day.
In Summary
From casual pubs and grills to specialty cuisine and sweet treats, Buckeye Lake restaurants offer something for every taste and budget. Many places around the lake feature live entertainment and outdoor seating, making the dining experience even better.
With so many options to choose from, I hope you’ll explore the local dining scene and discover your own favorite spots. Whether you’re a Buckeye Lake resident or just visiting, there’s always something new to try!
Before you head out to eat, be sure to check the restaurant’s website or call ahead to find out about hours, menus, and special events. You can also check local Facebook groups for the most up-to-date information. Enjoy!