Foodie's top picks in Avon, Ohio
Of course! As your dedicated guide to the culinary landscape of Avon, Ohio, I'm thrilled to take you on a delectable journey down Detroit Road and beyond. This isn't just a list of restaurants; it's a curated tour of flavors, atmospheres, and unforgettable dining experiences. So, loosen your belt a notch and let's explore the heart of Avon's food scene.
### **A Foodie's Pilgrimage Through Avon, Ohio: Ten Flavors You Can't Miss**
Nestled along the shimmering shores of Lake Erie, Avon, Ohio, is often celebrated for its charming neighborhoods and vibrant community spirit. But for those in the know—the true gastronomes—Avon is a secret weapon, a dining destination where unassuming storefronts hide world-class flavors. From sizzling fajitas and aged steaks to delicate French pastries and vibrant smoothie bowls, this town offers a culinary passport to a dozen different cultures. Let's embark on a tasting tour that will tantalize your taste buds and introduce you to your new favorite spot.
---
#### **1. Mezquite Mexican Kitchen and Bar: A Fiesta for the Senses**
*35846 Detroit Rd • https://zmenu.com/mezquite-mexican-kitchen-and-bar-avon*
Step through the doors of Mezquite and be instantly transported. The air is thick with the aromatic smoke of charring meats and peppers—the eponymous *mezquite* (mesquite) wood firing the grills. The atmosphere is lively and warm, with vibrant colors and the cheerful clatter of a true Mexican kitchen. This isn't just a meal; it's an event.
**The Must-Order Experience:** For the ultimate Mezquite experience, you must engage with the *Parillada* (mixed grill). The **Parillada Mexicana** is a spectacle brought sizzling to your table on a hot platter, featuring a generous portion of grilled steak, chicken, chorizo, shrimp, and *nopal* (cactus paddle), accompanied by grilled onions, peppers, and a trio of sublime sauces: a smoky chipotle, a vibrant tomatillo, and a fiery red salsa. The complexity of the mesquite flavor infused into each element is sublime.
**Pro-Tip for Foodies:** Don't overlook the starters. The **Queso Fundido con Chorizo** is a masterpiece of melted cheese and spicy sausage, perfect for scooping with fresh, warm tortillas. For cocktail enthusiasts, their margaritas, particularly the **Top Shelf Margarita** made with 100% agave tequila and fresh lime juice, are among the best in Lorain County.
---
#### **2. Tree House: An Enchanted Escape**
*36840 Detroit Rd H • https://zmenu.com/tree-house-gallery-and-tea-room-avon*
Tucked away in a cozy nook, the Tree House is Avon’s very own secret garden. This is not merely a tea room; it's a sanctuary. The space is adorned with local art (hence Gallery), delicate china, and the gentle murmur of conversation. It’s the perfect spot for a leisurely lunch, a mother-daughter date, or a quiet afternoon of reflection.
**The Must-Order Experience:** The quintessential Tree House order is their **Traditional Afternoon Tea**. This multi-tiered presentation is a feast for the eyes and palate. You’ll be treated to delicate finger sandwiches (like cucumber mint and chicken salad), warm scones served with Devonshire cream and lemon curd, and an assortment of exquisite pastries. It’s an experience of refined elegance.
**Pro-Tip for Foodies:** If you're not up for the full tea service, their **Quiche of the Day** is always a winner—flaky, buttery crust filled with a light, savory custard and fresh ingredients. Pair it with one of their dozens of loose-leaf teas. Ask your server for a recommendation based on your mood; their knowledge is part of the charm.
---
#### **3. Cork & Barrel Wine Bar and Restaurant: Sophistication Uncorked**
*35800 Detroit Rd • https://zmenu.com/cork-and-barrel-wine-bar-avon*
Sophisticated, intimate, and buzzing with a cool, contemporary energy, Cork & Barrel is where Avon goes to see and be seen. With its exposed brick, soft lighting, and an impressive bar showcasing countless bottles, it sets the stage for a perfect evening. This is a place for conversation, for savoring, for indulging.
**The Must-Order Experience:** The menu is designed for sharing, encouraging a graze-as-you-go approach. Start with the **Charcuterie & Cheese Board**. Curated in-house, it features a rotating selection of artisanal meats, cheeses, olives, nuts, and accoutrements that perfectly complement their extensive wine list. For a main, the **Braised Short Rib** is legendary—falling-apart tender, rich, and served over creamy parmesan risotto.
**Pro-Tip for Foodies:** Don't be shy about asking the staff for wine pairings. They are passionate and knowledgeable. Tell them what you’re eating and what you generally like, and they’ll guide you to a bottle or glass that will elevate your meal. Also, save room for the **Crème Brûlée**; its perfectly torched sugar top is a thing of beauty.
---
#### **4. Borikén Joe's Taco Shop: A Taste of Puerto Rican Sunshine**
*36795 Detroit Rd • https://zmenu.com/borikén-joes-avon*
Borikén Joe’s is a burst of vibrant, unpretentious flavor. The name Borikén is the indigenous Taíno name for Puerto Rico, and this shop is a heartfelt homage to the island's cuisine. The vibe is casual and friendly, with reggaeton music setting the rhythm for a truly authentic experience.
**The Must-Order Experience:** You simply cannot leave without trying the **Mofongo**. This iconic Puerto Rican dish features fried green plantains mashed with garlic, olive oil, and chicharrones (pork cracklings), formed into a dome and typically topped with your choice of meat. The **Mofongo with Shrimp in Creole Sauce** is a revelation—the savory, garlicky plantain base soaking up the rich, tomato-based sauce is pure comfort food magic.
**Pro-Tip for Foodies:** For a quicker bite, their **Pernil (Roast Pork) Taco** is a must. The pork is marinated and slow-roasted to perfection, juicy and flavorful. And don't skip the sauces! Their cilantro-based green sauce and the slightly spicy pink sauce are legendary among regulars.
---
#### **5. Chez Michel French Market: A Petit Slice of Paris**
*36840 Detroit Rd • https://zmenu.com/chez-michel-french-market-avon*
*Bonjour, mes amis!* Just steps away from the Tree House, Chez Michel whisks you from the English countryside to the heart of a Parisian neighborhood market. The smell of fresh-baked bread and brewing espresso fills the air. It’s part café, part bakery, part market—and entirely delightful.
**The Must-Order Experience:** For breakfast or lunch, the **Croque Monsieur** is a classic done right. Toasted bread, rich béchamel, savory ham, and gruyère cheese grilled to gooey, golden perfection. For a sweeter start, nothing beats a warm, flaky **Pain au Chocolat** or an **Almond Croissant** with a perfectly pulled cappuccino.
**Pro-Tip for Foodies:** This is your spot for gourmet provisions. Pick up a baguette for dinner, a jar of French mustard, or a beautiful paté. And if you see a **Tarte au Citron (Lemon Tart)** in the pastry case, claim it immediately. Its sharp, sweet, and creamy filling in a delicate crust is a masterclass in pastry.
---
#### **6. Pulp Juice and Smoothie Bar: The Healthy Reboot**
*1813 Nagel Rd Suite • https://zmenu.com/pulp-juice-and-smoothie-bar-avon-2*
After all this indulging, your body might cry out for something fresh and revitalizing. Pulp is the answer. Bright, clean, and energetic, this is the go-to for a nutrient-packed boost. It’s the perfect post-workout stop or a healthy lunch that feels like a treat.
**The Must-Order Experience:** Go for the **Acai Bowl**. Theirs is a thick, smooth blend of acai berries topped with a gorgeous arrangement of fresh fruit, granola, honey, and coconut. It’s Instagram-worthy and even more delicious than it looks. For a drinkable option, the **Green Destiny** smoothie (spinach, mango, pineapple, banana) is a sweet yet powerfully healthy choice.
**Pro-Tip for Foodies:** Don't just think of Pulp for drinks. Their wraps and salads are fantastic. The **Hummus Veggie Wrap** is fresh, filling, and full of flavor. You can also customize your smoothie—add a scoop of protein powder, peanut butter, or spinach to make it your own power meal.
---
#### **7. Mulligan's Pub & Grille: The Heart of the Community**
*38244 Colorado Ave • https://zmenu.com/mulligans-pub-and-grill-avon*
Mulligan’s is the quintessential neighborhood pub—the kind of place where everybody knows your name. With its dark wood, sports on the TVs, and a friendly, relaxed atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to unwind with a cold beer and hearty, satisfying food.
**The Must-Order Experience:** You’re here for classic pub grub, executed brilliantly. The **Irish Egg Rolls** are a stroke of genius. Crispy egg roll wrappers are filled with corned beef, cabbage, and Swiss cheese, then fried and served with a thousand-island dipping sauce. For your main, the **Shepherd's Pie** is the ultimate comfort food—a savory ground beef and vegetable mixture topped with a cloud of fluffy mashed potatoes and gravy.
**Pro-Tip for Foodies:** Check their board for daily specials, which often feature fresh fish or unique burgers. And on a chilly Ohio day, there’s nothing better than pairing your meal with a local craft beer from their tap list.
---
#### **8. Strip Steakhouse: The Ultimate Indulgence**
*36840 Detroit Rd • https://zmenu.com/strip-avon*
When only the best will do, you book a table at Strip. This is Avon’s fine-dining steakhouse, exuding a clubby, elegant ambiance with plush seating and impeccable service. It’s the destination for anniversaries, celebrations, and serious steak lovers.
**The Must-Order Experience:** This is a no-compromise situation. Order the **Dry-Aged Bone-In Ribeye**. The dry-aging process concentrates the beefy flavor and creates an incredibly tender texture, while the bone imparts even more richness. Have it cooked to a perfect medium-rare. Pair it with a bold Cabernet Sauvignon from their extensive list and essential sides: the **Creamed Spinach** and **Gruyère Truffle Tater Tots** are decadent and unforgettable.
**Pro-Tip for Foodies:** The experience begins before the steak. The **Lobster Bisque** is velvety, rich, and packed with sweet lobster meat. And for a true surf and turf moment, add a **Cold Water Lobster Tail** to your order. It’s worth every penny.
---
#### **9. Hecks Of Avon: A Family Legacy of Flavor**
*35514 Detroit Rd • https://zmenu.com/hecks-avon-avon*
A beloved institution, Hecks has been serving the community for decades. It’s a family-friendly, comfortable American restaurant where the coffee is always hot, the service is always smiling, and the menu is packed with familiar favorites done right. It’s the comfort food anchor of Avon.
**The Must-Order Experience:** Breakfast is king at Hecks. Their **Greek Omelet** is a local legend—fluffy eggs stuffed with gyro meat, feta cheese, onions, and tomatoes, served with crispy home fries and toast. For lunch or dinner, you can’t go wrong with their classic **Reuben Sandwich**; it’s piled high with corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Russian dressing on grilled rye.
**Pro-Tip for Foodies:** Save room for pie. Hecks bakes their pies in-house daily, and the rotating selections (like Dutch Apple or French Silk) are the perfect, homestyle ending to any meal.
---
#### **10. Slim Chickens: The Crispy, Crunchy Fix**
*1822 Nagel Rd • https://zmenu.com/slim-chickens-avon*
Sometimes, you just need fantastic fried chicken. Slim Chickens, with its modern, fast-casual vibe, specializes in hand-breaded, cooked-to-order tenders that are impossibly juicy and crispy. It’s a southern-inspired haven for chicken connoisseurs.
**The Must-Order Experience:** The **3-Tender Meal** is the way to go. You get three perfectly fried tenders, a delicious buttermilk biscuit (don’t skip the honey!), your choice of dipping sauce, and a side. The real star here is the sauce bar. With over a dozen options, from classic Honey Mustard to spicy Buffalo Garlic Parmesan, you can mix and match to find your perfect combination.
**Pro-Tip for Foodies:** The side dishes are elevated far above the standard. The **Fried Pickles** are tangy and crisp, and the **Mac & Cheese** is creamy and satisfying. For a true test, try the **Spicy Chicken Sandwich**—it has a kick that builds beautifully with each bite.
---
### **The Final Bite**
From the mesquite-fired grills of Mezquite to the refined elegance of Strip, Avon’s culinary scene is a testament to its diverse and vibrant community. Each of these ten establishments offers a unique window into a culture, a cooking philosophy, and a passion for good food shared among friends and family. So, the next time you find yourself in Avon with a craving for adventure, skip the chain restaurants. Dive into these local gems. Your taste buds will thank you for the journey.
*Happy eating!*
### **A Foodie's Pilgrimage Through Avon, Ohio: Ten Flavors You Can't Miss**
Nestled along the shimmering shores of Lake Erie, Avon, Ohio, is often celebrated for its charming neighborhoods and vibrant community spirit. But for those in the know—the true gastronomes—Avon is a secret weapon, a dining destination where unassuming storefronts hide world-class flavors. From sizzling fajitas and aged steaks to delicate French pastries and vibrant smoothie bowls, this town offers a culinary passport to a dozen different cultures. Let's embark on a tasting tour that will tantalize your taste buds and introduce you to your new favorite spot.
---
#### **1. Mezquite Mexican Kitchen and Bar: A Fiesta for the Senses**
*35846 Detroit Rd • https://zmenu.com/mezquite-mexican-kitchen-and-bar-avon*
Step through the doors of Mezquite and be instantly transported. The air is thick with the aromatic smoke of charring meats and peppers—the eponymous *mezquite* (mesquite) wood firing the grills. The atmosphere is lively and warm, with vibrant colors and the cheerful clatter of a true Mexican kitchen. This isn't just a meal; it's an event.
**The Must-Order Experience:** For the ultimate Mezquite experience, you must engage with the *Parillada* (mixed grill). The **Parillada Mexicana** is a spectacle brought sizzling to your table on a hot platter, featuring a generous portion of grilled steak, chicken, chorizo, shrimp, and *nopal* (cactus paddle), accompanied by grilled onions, peppers, and a trio of sublime sauces: a smoky chipotle, a vibrant tomatillo, and a fiery red salsa. The complexity of the mesquite flavor infused into each element is sublime.
**Pro-Tip for Foodies:** Don't overlook the starters. The **Queso Fundido con Chorizo** is a masterpiece of melted cheese and spicy sausage, perfect for scooping with fresh, warm tortillas. For cocktail enthusiasts, their margaritas, particularly the **Top Shelf Margarita** made with 100% agave tequila and fresh lime juice, are among the best in Lorain County.
---
#### **2. Tree House: An Enchanted Escape**
*36840 Detroit Rd H • https://zmenu.com/tree-house-gallery-and-tea-room-avon*
Tucked away in a cozy nook, the Tree House is Avon’s very own secret garden. This is not merely a tea room; it's a sanctuary. The space is adorned with local art (hence Gallery), delicate china, and the gentle murmur of conversation. It’s the perfect spot for a leisurely lunch, a mother-daughter date, or a quiet afternoon of reflection.
**The Must-Order Experience:** The quintessential Tree House order is their **Traditional Afternoon Tea**. This multi-tiered presentation is a feast for the eyes and palate. You’ll be treated to delicate finger sandwiches (like cucumber mint and chicken salad), warm scones served with Devonshire cream and lemon curd, and an assortment of exquisite pastries. It’s an experience of refined elegance.
**Pro-Tip for Foodies:** If you're not up for the full tea service, their **Quiche of the Day** is always a winner—flaky, buttery crust filled with a light, savory custard and fresh ingredients. Pair it with one of their dozens of loose-leaf teas. Ask your server for a recommendation based on your mood; their knowledge is part of the charm.
---
#### **3. Cork & Barrel Wine Bar and Restaurant: Sophistication Uncorked**
*35800 Detroit Rd • https://zmenu.com/cork-and-barrel-wine-bar-avon*
Sophisticated, intimate, and buzzing with a cool, contemporary energy, Cork & Barrel is where Avon goes to see and be seen. With its exposed brick, soft lighting, and an impressive bar showcasing countless bottles, it sets the stage for a perfect evening. This is a place for conversation, for savoring, for indulging.
**The Must-Order Experience:** The menu is designed for sharing, encouraging a graze-as-you-go approach. Start with the **Charcuterie & Cheese Board**. Curated in-house, it features a rotating selection of artisanal meats, cheeses, olives, nuts, and accoutrements that perfectly complement their extensive wine list. For a main, the **Braised Short Rib** is legendary—falling-apart tender, rich, and served over creamy parmesan risotto.
**Pro-Tip for Foodies:** Don't be shy about asking the staff for wine pairings. They are passionate and knowledgeable. Tell them what you’re eating and what you generally like, and they’ll guide you to a bottle or glass that will elevate your meal. Also, save room for the **Crème Brûlée**; its perfectly torched sugar top is a thing of beauty.
---
#### **4. Borikén Joe's Taco Shop: A Taste of Puerto Rican Sunshine**
*36795 Detroit Rd • https://zmenu.com/borikén-joes-avon*
Borikén Joe’s is a burst of vibrant, unpretentious flavor. The name Borikén is the indigenous Taíno name for Puerto Rico, and this shop is a heartfelt homage to the island's cuisine. The vibe is casual and friendly, with reggaeton music setting the rhythm for a truly authentic experience.
**The Must-Order Experience:** You simply cannot leave without trying the **Mofongo**. This iconic Puerto Rican dish features fried green plantains mashed with garlic, olive oil, and chicharrones (pork cracklings), formed into a dome and typically topped with your choice of meat. The **Mofongo with Shrimp in Creole Sauce** is a revelation—the savory, garlicky plantain base soaking up the rich, tomato-based sauce is pure comfort food magic.
**Pro-Tip for Foodies:** For a quicker bite, their **Pernil (Roast Pork) Taco** is a must. The pork is marinated and slow-roasted to perfection, juicy and flavorful. And don't skip the sauces! Their cilantro-based green sauce and the slightly spicy pink sauce are legendary among regulars.
---
#### **5. Chez Michel French Market: A Petit Slice of Paris**
*36840 Detroit Rd • https://zmenu.com/chez-michel-french-market-avon*
*Bonjour, mes amis!* Just steps away from the Tree House, Chez Michel whisks you from the English countryside to the heart of a Parisian neighborhood market. The smell of fresh-baked bread and brewing espresso fills the air. It’s part café, part bakery, part market—and entirely delightful.
**The Must-Order Experience:** For breakfast or lunch, the **Croque Monsieur** is a classic done right. Toasted bread, rich béchamel, savory ham, and gruyère cheese grilled to gooey, golden perfection. For a sweeter start, nothing beats a warm, flaky **Pain au Chocolat** or an **Almond Croissant** with a perfectly pulled cappuccino.
**Pro-Tip for Foodies:** This is your spot for gourmet provisions. Pick up a baguette for dinner, a jar of French mustard, or a beautiful paté. And if you see a **Tarte au Citron (Lemon Tart)** in the pastry case, claim it immediately. Its sharp, sweet, and creamy filling in a delicate crust is a masterclass in pastry.
---
#### **6. Pulp Juice and Smoothie Bar: The Healthy Reboot**
*1813 Nagel Rd Suite • https://zmenu.com/pulp-juice-and-smoothie-bar-avon-2*
After all this indulging, your body might cry out for something fresh and revitalizing. Pulp is the answer. Bright, clean, and energetic, this is the go-to for a nutrient-packed boost. It’s the perfect post-workout stop or a healthy lunch that feels like a treat.
**The Must-Order Experience:** Go for the **Acai Bowl**. Theirs is a thick, smooth blend of acai berries topped with a gorgeous arrangement of fresh fruit, granola, honey, and coconut. It’s Instagram-worthy and even more delicious than it looks. For a drinkable option, the **Green Destiny** smoothie (spinach, mango, pineapple, banana) is a sweet yet powerfully healthy choice.
**Pro-Tip for Foodies:** Don't just think of Pulp for drinks. Their wraps and salads are fantastic. The **Hummus Veggie Wrap** is fresh, filling, and full of flavor. You can also customize your smoothie—add a scoop of protein powder, peanut butter, or spinach to make it your own power meal.
---
#### **7. Mulligan's Pub & Grille: The Heart of the Community**
*38244 Colorado Ave • https://zmenu.com/mulligans-pub-and-grill-avon*
Mulligan’s is the quintessential neighborhood pub—the kind of place where everybody knows your name. With its dark wood, sports on the TVs, and a friendly, relaxed atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to unwind with a cold beer and hearty, satisfying food.
**The Must-Order Experience:** You’re here for classic pub grub, executed brilliantly. The **Irish Egg Rolls** are a stroke of genius. Crispy egg roll wrappers are filled with corned beef, cabbage, and Swiss cheese, then fried and served with a thousand-island dipping sauce. For your main, the **Shepherd's Pie** is the ultimate comfort food—a savory ground beef and vegetable mixture topped with a cloud of fluffy mashed potatoes and gravy.
**Pro-Tip for Foodies:** Check their board for daily specials, which often feature fresh fish or unique burgers. And on a chilly Ohio day, there’s nothing better than pairing your meal with a local craft beer from their tap list.
---
#### **8. Strip Steakhouse: The Ultimate Indulgence**
*36840 Detroit Rd • https://zmenu.com/strip-avon*
When only the best will do, you book a table at Strip. This is Avon’s fine-dining steakhouse, exuding a clubby, elegant ambiance with plush seating and impeccable service. It’s the destination for anniversaries, celebrations, and serious steak lovers.
**The Must-Order Experience:** This is a no-compromise situation. Order the **Dry-Aged Bone-In Ribeye**. The dry-aging process concentrates the beefy flavor and creates an incredibly tender texture, while the bone imparts even more richness. Have it cooked to a perfect medium-rare. Pair it with a bold Cabernet Sauvignon from their extensive list and essential sides: the **Creamed Spinach** and **Gruyère Truffle Tater Tots** are decadent and unforgettable.
**Pro-Tip for Foodies:** The experience begins before the steak. The **Lobster Bisque** is velvety, rich, and packed with sweet lobster meat. And for a true surf and turf moment, add a **Cold Water Lobster Tail** to your order. It’s worth every penny.
---
#### **9. Hecks Of Avon: A Family Legacy of Flavor**
*35514 Detroit Rd • https://zmenu.com/hecks-avon-avon*
A beloved institution, Hecks has been serving the community for decades. It’s a family-friendly, comfortable American restaurant where the coffee is always hot, the service is always smiling, and the menu is packed with familiar favorites done right. It’s the comfort food anchor of Avon.
**The Must-Order Experience:** Breakfast is king at Hecks. Their **Greek Omelet** is a local legend—fluffy eggs stuffed with gyro meat, feta cheese, onions, and tomatoes, served with crispy home fries and toast. For lunch or dinner, you can’t go wrong with their classic **Reuben Sandwich**; it’s piled high with corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Russian dressing on grilled rye.
**Pro-Tip for Foodies:** Save room for pie. Hecks bakes their pies in-house daily, and the rotating selections (like Dutch Apple or French Silk) are the perfect, homestyle ending to any meal.
---
#### **10. Slim Chickens: The Crispy, Crunchy Fix**
*1822 Nagel Rd • https://zmenu.com/slim-chickens-avon*
Sometimes, you just need fantastic fried chicken. Slim Chickens, with its modern, fast-casual vibe, specializes in hand-breaded, cooked-to-order tenders that are impossibly juicy and crispy. It’s a southern-inspired haven for chicken connoisseurs.
**The Must-Order Experience:** The **3-Tender Meal** is the way to go. You get three perfectly fried tenders, a delicious buttermilk biscuit (don’t skip the honey!), your choice of dipping sauce, and a side. The real star here is the sauce bar. With over a dozen options, from classic Honey Mustard to spicy Buffalo Garlic Parmesan, you can mix and match to find your perfect combination.
**Pro-Tip for Foodies:** The side dishes are elevated far above the standard. The **Fried Pickles** are tangy and crisp, and the **Mac & Cheese** is creamy and satisfying. For a true test, try the **Spicy Chicken Sandwich**—it has a kick that builds beautifully with each bite.
---
### **The Final Bite**
From the mesquite-fired grills of Mezquite to the refined elegance of Strip, Avon’s culinary scene is a testament to its diverse and vibrant community. Each of these ten establishments offers a unique window into a culture, a cooking philosophy, and a passion for good food shared among friends and family. So, the next time you find yourself in Avon with a craving for adventure, skip the chain restaurants. Dive into these local gems. Your taste buds will thank you for the journey.
*Happy eating!*
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