Looking for a great meal at the lake? Buckeye Lake has a wide variety of dining options for locals and tourists alike. From casual spots by the water to unique culinary experiences, there’s something for everyone.
This guide will help you explore the best restaurants, pubs, and specialty food options around Buckeye Lake. We’ve included spots with waterfront views, live music, and family-friendly atmospheres.
Whether you’re arriving by boat or car, this guide will help you find the best places to eat and drink. You can even use the Lake Life Shuttle Service to easily get around and try different Buckeye Lake restaurants.
Lakeside Restaurants with a View
Buckeye Lake has plenty of spots where you can enjoy a meal with a beautiful view. Whether you’re looking for something casual or a more upscale experience, here are a few ideas:
Casual Waterfront Dining
- Flip Flops Dockside Grill offers a relaxed vibe with entertainment year-round. You can enjoy casual food while taking in the lake views. Check their schedule for live music and special events.
- Our Lakeside Diner delivers a classic diner experience but with a lakeside twist. Expect traditional diner fare with a focus on dishes made with local ingredients.
Upscale Dining Experiences
If you’re hoping for something a bit fancier, there are restaurants around the lake that offer fine dining options. Look for places with curated wine lists and craft cocktails.
Some of these restaurants may offer private dining experiences for special occasions, so call ahead to ask about options and availability.
The Port Smokehouse: BBQ by Land or Water
Opening in late April, The Port Smokehouse is a barbecue destination with live entertainment. Accessible by both land and water, it’s a popular spot for boaters and others who enjoy authentic barbecue and a lively atmosphere.
Pubs, bars, and breweries: Drinks with a view
If you’re looking for a place to relax with a cold drink and a great view, Buckeye Lake has no shortage of options, from upscale cocktail bars to local breweries with live music.
Cocktail Destinations
Hereinafter Cocktail Tavern is on a mission to bring great cocktails to everyone. They’re known for their large format clear ice program and their focus on teaching their customers a little something about cocktails.
Reservations are recommended if you want to be sure you’ll have a seat.
There are also plenty of bars where you can sip fine spirits while enjoying a panoramic view of the lake. Many of these spots have happy hour specials and extensive cocktail menus.
Local Breweries and Wineries
If you’re a fan of craft beer or regional wines, be sure to check out the local breweries and wineries. Many have outdoor seating and live music, allowing you to support local businesses while enjoying unique flavors.
Keep an eye out for breweries that use local ingredients and experiment with unusual flavor combinations.
Live Music Venues
Many of the pubs and bars around Buckeye Lake feature live music, especially acoustic sets. Check the venue schedules to see who’s playing and when.
There’s nothing quite like enjoying live music, your favorite drink, and a gorgeous view of the lake all at the same time.
Family-Friendly Options and Sweet Treats
Got the kids in tow? Or maybe you’re just craving something sweet? Here are a few suggestions.
Family-Friendly Restaurants
Plenty of Buckeye Lake restaurants welcome families. Look for places with kids’ menus, outdoor seating, and even play areas to keep the little ones entertained. For an easy family dinner, consider ordering online and picking up your meal.
Weldon’s Ice Cream: A Local Favorite
For a taste of Buckeye Lake history and some truly delicious homemade ice cream, you can’t miss Weldon’s Ice Cream. This local favorite offers all kinds of ice cream flavors as well as classic sundaes.
Other Specialty Food Options
Around the lake, you’ll also find plenty of other options, from pizza and sandwiches to wings, hot dogs, and Mexican food. Be sure to check for seasonal specials and unique offerings that pop up from time to time.
Getting Around Buckeye Lake
If you’re planning on visiting several restaurants or bars around Buckeye Lake, consider using a shuttle service.
The Lake Life Shuttle Service offers transportation to and from various locations. Check their website for pricing and schedules.
The Barr Hopper also provides transportation with stops around the lake. Remember to bring cash if you plan to use this service.
Many restaurants have boat access or boat storage, so you can also arrive by water. Call ahead to make sure they have dock space available.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a Buckeye Lake local or just visiting, you’ll find plenty of dining and entertainment options to suit your taste and budget. From casual lakeside grills to upscale cocktail bars, there’s something for everyone.
Before you go, be sure to check the restaurants’ websites for seasonal hours, weekly specials, and live music schedules. And if you’re planning on sampling the offerings at more than one spot, remember that you can get around Buckeye Lake by boat, car, or even golf cart.
Explore the culinary delights of Buckeye Lake and make some lasting memories!