Category Archives: Ohio

St. Joseph’s Pinot Vista Vineyard in Madison, Ohio

When I arrived at St. Joseph Vineyards, I was aware of the winery’s reputation for making some of the best wines in Ohio.

Founded in 1987, Doreen and her husband Art Pietrzyk, moved from Cleveland to Ohio’s Grand River Valley after perfecting their wine-making skills over several years since 1972.  Art was an engineer, so of course he was curious to learn how wine was made, so he began his own operation making wine from grapes and concentrate.

Art and Doreen’s curiosity for making wine led them to work with such winemakers as Bill Worthy in the Grand River Valley, Doug Mooreshead at Presque Isle Winery and favorite local, Arnie Esterer of nearby Markko Vineyard.   They also reached out to Ohio State University’s agriculture division, traveled the world to sample lots of wine and eventually purchased land to start growing their own grapes.

The drive to reach the vineyards was absolutely stunning with twists, turns, valleys and hills.  The gravel road eventually reaches the winery which was built in 1999. Approaching upstairs, the smell of cedar escapes the tasting room where the winery’s medals and wines are displayed while the basement houses the winemaking operations.

Standing behind the counter was Doreen, pouring her award-winning varietals from their local vitis vinifera grapes.

According to Doreen, there are seven acres of grapes, mostly red from Ohio’s Grand River Valley with an additional six acres of white grapes in Conneaut’s Lake Erie Appellation. They types of grapes they have planted include Cabernet Franc, Chardonnay, Merlot, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Noir, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, Shiraz and Vidal Blanc.

I couldn’t resist a glass of the Saperavi, a popular grape from the country of Georgia. The name means “dye”, which relates to the deep, red color of the wine, almost black in color. With a full body and dynamic texture, this wine is my favorite at St. Joseph Vineyard.  Considered a bit jammy, the taste of the wine changes after the second day.  Smelling of berries, it also tastes fruit-forward and would be perfectly paired with steak.

The wine label is a replica of the beautiful stained glass window on the property.  Perfectly recreated, it resembles the elegance and artistic nature of the winemakers and their process.

White Wines

  • Pinot Gris:  A dry wine with orange, citrus and honeysuckle fruit flavors
  • Chardonnay:  A dry, complex and intense wine made “sur-lie style” with apple and buttery flavors
  • Sauvignon Blanc: A fruity wine rich in tropical, pineapple floral and herbal character
  • Riesling:  A semi-dry fruity wine intense with apple, citrus and melon flavors
  • Vidal Blanc: A semi-dry Germanic style wine enlivened with pear, peach and apricot fruit flavors
  • Ice Wine:  This special sweet dessert wine is made from grapes that are picked and pressed while still frozen to extract a highly concentrated juice.

Red Wines

  • Pinot Noir: A bright red with luscious bing cherry and strawberry flavors, coupled with hints of violet.
  • Reserve Pinot Noir:  A big intense red with black cherry and plum flavors along with clove spice and cedar tones with a perfume bouquet with hints of roses.
  • St.  Joseph Noir: A proprietary red blend which includes varieties such as Pinot, Cabernet, Petit Shiraz, Merlot, Shiraz and Sangiovese.
  • Merlot: A dark red wine teeming with raspberry, currant and plum aromas.
  • Shiraz: The Shiraz is Rhone-style red with blueberry, clove and peppery flavors.
  • Cabernet / Cabernet Franc: Big Red Cabernet with berry, plum and vanilla notes.

St. Joseph’s Vineyard’s philosophy comes from a Bible verse from the book of Matthew.  “Wherefore ye shall know them by their fruits. The good vine bears good wine.”  (Matthew 7:16).

The Pietrzyks have lived up to their philosophy, creating award winning wines for years and I am ready to grab a couple bottles of Saperavi and enjoy the fruits of their labor.

Have you visited St. Joseph Vineyards?  What was your favorite wine?  I would love to hear from you if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my visit to St. Joseph Vineyards and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

St, Joseph Vineyards
6060 Madison Road
7800 Warner Road (tasting room)
Thompson, Ohio  44086
Telephone:  440 298 3709

Main Room is open Monday, Wednesday and Thursday from 11AM to 6PM during the spring and fall and open Friday and Saturday from noon to 7PM, all year.

Where to Stay:

The Lodge at Geneva on the Lake
4888 N. Broadway
Geneva on the Lake, Ohio  44041
Telephone:  866 806 8066

Where to Eat:

I recommend having snacks at Hundley Cellars because they are fabulous and unique!  Here are a couple of suggestions close by if you would prefer a full menu option:

Chops Grille & Tap House
1752 State Route 534 South
Geneva, Ohio  44041
Telephone:  440 466 7427

Crosswinds Grille
5653 Lake Road East
Geneva, Ohio  44041
Telephone:  440 466 8668 x4

My favorite menu item is the charcuterie board.   Crosswinds is known for its farm to table offerings where everything tastes so fresh.

Disclosure:   Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

The Winery at Wolf Creek in Norton, Ohio

Taking the last sip of my wine sample of Space Cowboy, I noticed a group of bubbly young college students walking through the door of The Winery at Wolf Creek, dressed for a bachelorette party. They approached the tasting bar where I was enjoying a glass of wine when we struck up a conversation.  It was their first time here, so they asked what I was drinking and if I had any suggestions for what they should order.

This was their first winery experience but they were not new to wine. We discussed which types of wine they would normally purchase and I shared with them my wine list with all of my hand written notes.   I suggested that they start out sampling some of the wines before they commit to a bottle.  They agreed that the sweet, fruit wines were more their style so they started out with samples of Blue (blueberry), Original Sin (apple) and Space Cowboy (peach).

The server set them up as I took a glass of Redemption out to the patio, waiting for a pizza from Fat Boys.  Redemption is a French-hybrid blend that is light on the sweet side which I absolutely enjoy chilled.

I took a menu outside to look over the beer selection that includes craft beers from local and popular breweries as well as ciders and fruit based ales.  The Winery at Wolf Creek has a limited menu of cheeses, meat and crackers but they welcome patrons to bring their own foods to enjoy with their wines while enjoying the spectacular view.

With a few minutes to spare, I reviewed my tasting notes and information that I had collected from my server.  Distracted by the beautiful view of the Akron skyline, I noted which wines I would be purchasing before leaving the winery.

The Vignoles was my first sample which is a semi-sweet estate wine that I found had a lingering sour finish.  This having been my first experience with this wine, I was curious to learn about specific food pairings that may alter the taste of the wine and found an unusual list to include pumpkin and ginger-based foods as well as gingers snaps*.

One of the varietals grown on the estate, Vignoles is one of three grapes that make up about 80 percent of their white wine production which also includes the Pinot Gris and Leon Millot.

Peppery and smooth, the Zinfandel was my absolute favorite but having learned that the winery makes a great Cabernet Franc, I had to sample this wine as well.

Summit County provides a grape growing terrior that includes sandy loam, clay loam and gravel.  Because the climate is similar to the Loire Valley in France, this provides the potential as a perfect location for growing Cabernet Franc and Chambourcin varietals.

Switching over to sweet wines, Sweet Revenge is a beautiful Ohio rose that the winery has been making for over twenty years.  A blend of Seyval Blanc and French Hybrid wines, this crisp, delicious wine is a classic.

I am always interested in sampling the fruit wines from Ohio wineries because they have the potential to be extremely fruity or combined with grapes, have subtle notes of fruit flavor in the blend.  Blue, a semi-dry blueberry wine was rich in color as well as a little tart which I found to be an absolute lovely combination.

Original sin is the perfect name for this crisp, apple based wine, but it is Space Cowboy that wins my vote with its full peach flavor in every sip.

The sun is starting to set on this beautiful, brisk October evening. I bring myself inside where I can continue admiring the outside view from the beautiful glass windows of the tasting room.

My pizza had just arrived, so I ordered a bottle of Zinfandel, knowing that the winery can repackage the remaining wine for me to take home.

The Winery at Wolf Creek is open year around, with limited hours during the winter season.  Cellar tours are available by appointment and wine tastings are offered daily.  The winery offers a great selection of wine accessories, clothes, gift baskets and of course, wine which ranges from $14 to $24 per bottle.

The bachelorette party is going strong in the tasting room and I stop by to inquire how they enjoyed the wines.  The bride-to-be, dressed in red, mentioned that they had such a difficult selecting a favorite that they purchased one of each to enjoy with their large group.  I told her to beware of the Big Bad Wolf as I exited the winery, happy to see they were having the time of their lives.

Have you had the opportunity to visit The Winery at Wolf Creek?  Did you pack a picnic or order some food?  What was your favorite wine?  I would love to hear about your visit to The Winery at Wolf Creek if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.  Many thanks for reading my post about The Winery at Wolf Creek and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

The Winery at Wolf Creek
2637 South Cleveland Massillon Road
Norton, Ohio  44203
Telephone:  330 665 1445

Where to Stay:

The Whimsical  Pig Bed & Breakfast
2682 South Cleveland Massillon Road
Norton, OH  44203
Telephone: 330 576 6104

Ron and Sue Bishop were absolutely lovely hosts.  The French toast for breakfast was amazing!

Where to Eat:

Wolf Creek Tavern
3044 Wadsworth Road
Norton, OH  44203
Telephone: 234 571 4531

Seated on the outside patio, I was so excited to try an order of homemade pierogis and I selected the fish and chips for my entree.

Yellow Butterfly Winery in Newcomerstown, Ohio

IMG_0859

Sipping on a glass of Country Rose, I enjoyed the gorgeous rural landscape in the eastern region of Ohio, home to the Three Rivers Wine Trail.  Painted bright yellow, Yellow Butterfly Winery stands out among the rolling hills of farmland, offering spectacular views of its vines from their two-story deck.

IMG_0861

Making its home in a 100 year old restored farmhouse in Newcomerstown, this fabulous winery is easy to find.  The beautiful rustic interior provides plenty of space for visitors to enjoy their wines.  The tasting bar is also located inside and I was prepared to sample a wide range of fruit wines as well as the traditional wines that I have come to love in Ohio.

The winery offers three wine samples for a dollar, and since there are so many interesting combinations, I selected a total of nine.

IMG_0863

The first wine on my tasting sheet is the Passionate Peach. The beautiful pale yellow color of this wine reminds me of straw, but smells like I am surrounded by a peach orchard.  It is crisp with a bit of thickness which reminds me of a dessert wine.

Strawberry Fields is a lightly colored fruit wine made of strawberries and apples.  There is a hint of strawberry in the smell and it has a light, fruity taste with a little stronger alcohol taste towards the back of my tongue.  This is a very refreshing wine, and I purchased a bottle to enjoy on a hot summer day.

While I am trying my second sample, Lisa, the head wine steward brings me a small taste of Cranrazzmatazz.  It is one of their newest wines and has been a huge success for the winery.   It has a deliciously unique fruity smell and tastes amazing. Made from a combination of cranberry, raspberry and apple, this is a very sweet wine with a smooth texture.

Wistful Watermelon is made from watermelon and apples.  I liken it to the watermelon-flavored Jolly Rancher with a tartness towards the back of my tongue.

IMG_0864

Sweet Meadows is lighter in color than the previous wines I had tasted and is made from a combination of both the Concord and Niagara grape.

Sweet Red is the perfect Concord grape wine which is popular among Ohio wine drinkers.

Country Rose is my favorite out of all of the wines and is perfect for any occasion.  I love the smell, the taste and the color of this wine and bought a bottle to enjoy later at home.

IMG_0865

I thought I would go out of my comfort zone and order a semi dry so I added the Ohio Vidal Blanc to my wine tasting.  Despite my usual preferences, I like this wine.   Put it on ice and this would be another great wine for the summer season.

My final selection is the Golden Apricot.  It has a great texture and consistency with a mild apricot flavor.

IMG_0866

At the Yellow Butterfly Winery, the winemaking process takes place on the property from start to finish.  Michael wasn’t shy about crediting the late Leland Weiss of Rainbow Hills Winery for helping him when he started out.  Each winery advertises for each other close to their properties, which goes to show the camaraderie in the Ohio wine business.  It makes me proud to be a part of it.

Michael enjoys having his guests get involved in the naming of his new wines.  When he releases a wine he offers tastings at a discounted rate.  But I’ll have to wait until next year.

I thoroughly enjoyed my conversation with Michael and admire his passion for converting skeptics into wine lovers.  “It’s all about drinking the wines that you like, any way you like to drink them,” says Michael. I ordered a bottle of Country Rose and decided to check out the view which is more than stunning.  I enjoyed the music, listening to the live entertainment and wanted to take in the moment.  It was a perfect afternoon to enjoy some delicious wine.

Have you visited Yellow Butterfly Winery?  I would love to hear about your experience or let me know your favorite wine from this amazing winery by leaving a message in the comments section below!  Cheers!

Many thanks to Michael White and everyone at Yellow Butterfly Winery for their generosity and hospitality.

Disclosure:  Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

What to See and What to Do: 

Yellow Butterfly Winery
11661 Blue Ridge Road
Newcomerstown, Ohio  43832
Telephone: 740 492 1216

  • Hours: The winery is open the months of February to December, Tuesday through Saturday from 11:30 AM to 6 PM and later on the weekends.  The winery is closed on Sunday and Monday.  Hours are seasonal and are subject to change.  Please refer to the winery’s website for any updates to its hours of operation and schedule of events.
  • Amenities:  Weekend entertainment, dining, wine tastings, outdoor seating, online shopping, wine, private events and scheduled events
  • Tips for Your Visit:  Please note that the wine tastings are only provided during certain hours and are subject to change.  As always, please drink responsibly.

Those that were on the tour were provided with a country BBQ Rib/Chicken or Steak Dinner with two sides, the winery’s famous wine cake and a wine tasting!  this offering is also available to those visitors who reserve in advance on Saturdays for a cost of only $25.  Dinner reservations must be made by Thursday by calling 740 492 1216.  Live entertainment is also available during the summer months, so check out their website for a list of events.

Where to Stay:

Hampton Inn
200 Morris Crossing Avenue
Newcomerstown, OH  43832
Telephone:  740 498 9800

Where to Eat:

Railroad Restaurant & Saloon
509 Main Street
Coshocton, OH  43812
Telephone: 740 575 4151

It was a day to try some fried food and I could not pass up the opportunity to try the deep fried pickles because I prefer the chips over the spears.   The spicy cajun dipping sauce was the perfect condiment.  I also ordered the lobster bisque which was creamy, delicious and full of lobster meat.

What to Read: 

  • Restored Ohio: History Brought Back to Life, by Glenn Morris
  • Lost Circuses of Ohio, by Conrade C. Hinds
  • A Taste of the Hocking Hills by Matt Rapposelli
  • Asylum on the Hill, by Katherine Ziff

Photo Guide for Southeast Ohio: 

  • Hocking Hills State Park, Athens, Ohio
  • The Wilds Safari Park, Cumberland, Ohio

IMG_0870

Old Firehouse Winery, Geneva On The Lake, Ohio

I could hear the beautiful, distinct sound of bagpipes through a large crowd of onlookers as I approached Old Firehouse Winery.   I immediately took notice of the quaint little antique fire truck at the front of the building, half the size of the ones today, and entered the winery to sample a few of their wines.  The sassy red barn had been converted into a firehouse before becoming a winery and restaurant twenty-five years later.  “Old Betsy”, a 1926 Graham Brothers engine, represents the historical evolution of Old Firehouse Winery.

Standing in line with other patrons, I soon realized that the slushies were one of the winery’s best sellers.   I was easily entertained by the television screen with interesting information about the winery and Old Firehouse wines.

I had watched the informative loop twice when I was next in line to be served.   I decided to try the preset Sweet Wine Tasting Samples which included ten 1-ounce sized  plastic cups for a cost of $8.99 plus tax.

The umbrella-covered table had a lakeside view where I could enjoy the beauty of Lake Erie.  An Arts & Crafts Show had been set up in an open area where visitors browsed the booths and made a few purchases. During the summer, the fair takes place every Saturday from Memorial Day to Labor Day with hours from noon to 8.

Each Old Firehouse sample was numbered in the order of less sweet to the sweetest.

  • The Firehouse White is made of Catawba grapes was a Gold Award Winner.
  • The Firehouse Red is a semi-sweet wine, with a jammy taste and beautifully red in color.
  • Made from the popular, local Niagara grape, my next sample was the Lighthouse Niagara wine.
  • Lake Erie Riesling was surprisingly sweet compared to other Rieslings I have sampled in the past.
  • Raspberry Reflections has a sunset hue, but with its aromatic raspberry scent, it was perfectly prepared with just a hint of raspberry flavor.
  • Not quite sure what to expect with Spiced Apple, I was pleasantly surprised by its refreshing taste.
  • Frosty Peach, a lovely summertime wine,  was lightly flavored with a hint of peach.
  • Grape Jamboree is typical of an Ohio sweet wine and is one of the winery’s best sellers.  The Grape Jamboree is also an annual festival that takes place in Geneva during the month of September.
  • Pink Catawba, with its deep cranberry color was the sweetest wine yet.
  • My final sample was the Sweet Concord which tastes like grape juice that packs a punch.  This was my favorite sample and I purchased a bottle to make some sangria on a hot summer afternoon.

The view from where I was sitting was absolutely gorgeous.  Within a few feet from the seating area was an antique Ferris wheel at the edge of the lake.  This stand-alone attraction is well known to the locals and was built in 1956.  They call it the #5 Big Eli because it was fifth patent of George Ferris.   Old Firehouse Winery has a port wine named after this colorful wheel and has a spectacular view from the top.

Strolling through the winery before leaving for the Lakehouse Inn and Winery, I could not pass up the opportunity to try the slushie and I quickly learned why they are one of Old Firehouse Winery’s best sellers.

Have you visited Geneva on the Lake and tried the wines at Old Firehouse Winery?  I would love to hear about your fun experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.  Many thanks for checking out my post about the Old Firehouse Winery and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Old Firehouse Winery
9425, 5499 Lake Road East
Geneva on the Lake, OH  44041
Telephone:  440 466 9300

Open seven days a week year around, the winery and restaurant provides daily entertainment during the summer months with extended hours over the weekend.  For more information about the winery and their themed weekends which run from Memorial Day to Labor Day, check out their website.

Where to Stay:

Holiday Inn Express Ashtabula – Geneva
1831 Austinburg Road
Austinburg, OH   44010
Telephone:  440 275 2020

Where to Eat:

Biscotti’s Restaurant
186 Park Avenue
Conneaut, OH  44030
Telephone: 440 593 6766

Serving  Italian cuisine, I ordered the Medallions Gorgonzola Alfredo to try their homemade Alfredo sauce, so rich and delicious.

Featured Ohio Winery: Hanover Winery

The Pink Toad Party, Hanover Winery’s fundraiser for breast cancer was well underway when I entered the tasting room.   A steady stream of women, many dressed in pink, stood in line to order the winery’s Pink Toad Blush in support of a great cause for loved ones and fellow breast cancer survivors.  I felt honored to listen to some incredible journeys of survival from the brave women who had battled cancer and the dear family members who cared for them along the way.

I have since returned to Hanover Winery several times because of its picturesque, rural setting, its charming tasting room and of course, wonderful selection of wines.  I, myself, am particularly fond of the Statesman and the Black Dahlia wines, yet there are over twenty-five wines to sample and purchase.  From wonderful dry reds to a wonderful range of fruit wines, the winery offers a wide variety of award winning wines that are sure to please.

Here is a list of wines I have sampled:

REDS:

  • 2015 Malbec: Robust, full body dry red with interesting notes of plums and dark berries. Notably higher tannins with a sweet tobacco finish.  $23.99;  Residual Sugar: 0%;  Alcohol:  3%;  This wine was awarded a Silver Medal at the 2018 Finger Lakes International Competition
  • Cabernet Sauvignon: Bold layers of dark fruits with subtle notes of vanilla and caramel.  Medium smooth tannins.  Well balanced in oak with a nice finish. $36; Residual Sugar: 0%; This wine was awarded the International Double Gold Medal at the 2017 Competition
  • Chambourcin: A complex red wine with rich dark fruit flavors, oak aged;  $13.99;  Residual Sugar:  1%;  This wine was awarded a Gold Medal at the Ohio Wine Competition

  • Black Dahlia: Merlot Blackberry, dark and delicious; $18; Residual Sugar:  5%;  This wine was awarded the Bronze Medal at the Finger Lakes International Wine Competition
  • Baco Noir: A bold dry red with layers of plum and vanilla flavors, oak barrel aged;  $17; Residual Sugar:  1%
  • Pink Toad: Flavorful Catawba, a nice blush wine; $9.99; Residual Sugar: 9%; This wine was awarded the Bronze Medal at the Ohio Wine Competition

  • Sweet Lizzy: Sweet rose’ wine named in memory of our black Labrador Lizzy.  $10.99; Residual Sugar:  9%;   This wine was awarded the Gold Medal at the 2018 Finger Lakes International Wine Competition and a Bronze Medal from the Ohio Wine Competition

WHITES

  • Chardonnay: Stainless steel fermented lightly oaked; $13.99; Residual Sugar  5%
  • Vignoles: Dry, oak aged with hints of pineapple and apricot.  $12.99; Residual Sugar:  1%; This wine was awarded the Bronze Medal at the Ohio Wine Competition

FRUIT

  • Dammit Annie: A delicious blend of Blackberries and Haskap Berries; Sweet enough for dessert.  Named after their Labrador Annie;  $16.99; Residual Sugar:  5%
  • Peach: A smooth and delicious peach wine. A great summer treat  $11.99;  Residual Sugar: 9%; This wine was awarded the Silver and Bronze Medals at both the Finger Lakes International Wine Competition and the Ohio Wine Competition

PORT

  • Attitude: A port style dessert wine, oak barrel aged.  Alcohol 19.5%; $23.99; Residual Sugar: 5.9%; This wine was awarded the Silver Medal at the Finger Lakes International Wine Competition.

SPECIALTY

  • Unleashed: Raspberry Riesling, a sweet Riesling blended with real raspberries.  Labeled in memory of our yellow Labrador Ellie; $13.99; Residual Sugar:  5%;  This wine was awarded the Silver Medal at the Ohio Wine Competition

Additional wines available at Hanover Winery include:

REDS

  • 2015 Tampranillo
  • Marquette
  • Marechal Foch
  • Hanover Red
  • Mason’s Red
  • Soft Red

WHITES

  • Soft White
  • Vidal Blanc
  • Riesling – New Release
  • Traminette – New Release
  • Seyval Blanc
  • Hanover White
  • Kiss Me

FRUIT

  • Blackberry
  • Ohio Apple
  • Cranberry

SPARKLING

  • Bubbly

My drive from Oxford took only about ten minutes and the rural route was a welcoming change to my city life.  I could use a little leisurely wine time and knew I had finally arrived when I noticed the rows of Marquette and Seyval grapes.

According to Eddie McDonald, co-owner of the winery, the vines were planted in the spring of 2016 and it will take a few years until the crop produces grapes.  He and his wife Elizabeth opened the winery in 2009 after making wine for family and friends as a hobby for over ten years.  Known as Butler County’s sole winery, the gorgeous property is perfect for relaxing along the pond with a bottle of wine, enjoying the weekend entertainment or attending one of Hanover Winery’s many sponsored events. Visit their website to learn more about Hanover’s Annual Summer Wine Festival in August (expect a large turnout) and their Annual Animal Rescue Fundraiser in the Spring.

Business was soon picking up and Eddie was needed to bring some more wine up from their “wine cellar”.  He asked if I wanted to check it out and of course I was curious to see where the magic happens.  The entertainment was setting up on the patio, so I stopped by the tasting table and ordered a glass of Pink Toad to enjoy the pond.  I brought my list of wines to purchase for upcoming events, and bought a few favorites for my friends and family.   While Hanover Winery is one of my favorite wineries to visit because of the hospitality of Eddie and Elizabeth and the delicious award winning wines, I always enjoy visiting with the resident celebrities, Mason and Annie.

Have you had the opportunity to visit Hanover Winery?  What wines did you try?  I would love to hear about your visit if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.  Many thanks for reading about one of my favorite Ohio wineries and wishing you many Happy Travels.  Cheers!

What to See and What to Do:

Hanover Winery
2165 Morman Road
Hamilton, OH  45013
Telephone:  513 863 3119

Where to Stay:

The Elms
75 South Main Street
Oxford, OH  45056
Telephone:  513 524 2002

Where to Eat:

LaRosa’s Pizza Hamilton
770 NW Washington Blvd.
Hamilton, OH  45013
Telephone:  513 347 1111
Website:  www.larosas.com

Guerra’s Crazy Tacos: Springfield, Ohio

Since Guerra’s Crazy Tacos first opened in Springfield, Ohio, it has drawn visitors from all over the state of Ohio and beyond.  Known for its unique taco combinations, this brightly colored, boutique restaurant is the place for a unique twist on Mexican cuisine.

Drawing on recipes from his San Antonio roots, Felix Guerra III doesn’t shy away from fascinating culinary combos such as cabbage and candied ginger, teriyaki sauce and pineapple, or toppings to include BBQ sauce or jerk seasoning.  Each taco creation is written on the black board and changes from time to time, leaving you wanting to return to Guerra’s to taste his next invention.

The Sugar Skull artwork makes for a beautiful interior.  From the wall art to the tables and chairs, this symbol known for its remembrance of loved ones who have passed denoting the passing from the physical to the spiritual. It is also a reminder that our lives must be fully lived.

Starting with some chips and green salsa, it was the perfect distraction from my grumbling stomach anticipating the triple order of Sweet Lucy, Asian Ginger and the traditional taco.  I also couldn’t resist their spicy margarita.

I savored each bite and slowly enjoyed my margarita, tempted to purchase a couple of additional combos.  In the end, I decided it would not be the best idea and I could always return for more.  Besides, since it has been named one of Business Insider’s top places to order tacos, let’s hope they will be here for a very long time.

Have you visited Guerra’s Krazy Taco?  I would love to hear about your experience and what you ordered if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.  Many thanks for reading about my visit to Guerra’s Krazy Taco and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Guerra’s Krazy Tacos
229 N. Belmont Avenue
Springfield, OH  45503
Telephone:  937 325 0799

Simon Kenton Inn
4690 Urbana Road
Springfield, OH 45502
Telephone: 937 399 9950

Where to Eat:

Guerra’s Krazy Tacos
229 N. Belmont Avenue
Springfield, OH  45503
Telephone:  937 325 0799

What to Eat:

Tacos, Tacos and More Tacos!

More favorite Springfield eateries:

  • Schuler’s Donuts: Their chocolate cream-filled doughnut is their best seller…”home of homemade”. The bakery has several locations in Springfield.
  • Simon Kenton Inn: This historical home is an inn, restaurant and entertainment venue. With great food, I love the atmosphere of the Simon Kenton Inn.
  • Salato Deli: I love stopping by this deli for their charcuterie board
  • Le Torte Dolci Bakery; Located next to the Salato Deli, this European French bakery also serves amazing gelato.
  • Mike & Rosie’s Deli: This staple of Springfield is located near the Wittenberg campus and I am extremely fond of their Reuben sandwich.

What to Read:

  • The Book of Springfield, Ohio, 1906, by Springfield Commercial Club
  • Springfield, Ohio: A Summary of Two Centuries, by Tom Dunham
  • Ridgewood in the Country Club District, by Tamara K. Dallenbach
  • Still Standing: A life of pain, adversity and perseverance, by James Cooper
  • Hometown Killer, by Carol Rothgeb

Photo Guide for Springfield, Ohio:

  • Hartman Rock Garden
  • Westcott House, Frank Lloyd Wright House
  • Glen Helen Nature Preserve in nearby Yellow Springs
  • Heritage Center of Clark County
  • Tecumseh Land Trust in nearby Yellow Springs
  • Ohio Caverns in nearby Bellefontaine
  • Oakes Quarry Park in nearby Fairborn, Ohio

Hiking Buzzardroost Rock in Ohio

Located in the rolling hills of southwest Ohio is one of my favorite hikes, Buzzardroost Rock. Nearly two hours of driving from Cincinnati, I arrived at the lot where I parked my car and took the stairs down to the trail head.

An old sign marked the start of the trail so I crossed the road where I entered a forest of maple trees.  Considered a moderately difficult trail, I was guaranteed stunning views of the valley once I reached the scenic overlook.

Additional stairs brought me further into the woods where I reached a board walk protecting me from the surrounding wetlands.  Even a small rain would cause this area to flood, so the wooded platform was much appreciated.

Wooden stairs were a welcome sight for climbing up the side of the hill.

I crossed over the creek using wooden planks which had been perfectly laid down for hikers to span the trickling water.

Large sandstone rocks appeared at the crest of the hill and as the sun began to set, its reflection gave the monolith stones a reddish orange glow.

I was a little disappointed that the sun was beginning to set, but the sky was such a beautiful pink and orange that I took a few moments to enjoy the spectacular colors streaming through the trees.

The further I walked, the more beautiful the colors came together.  It was so worth taking a few moments to enjoy the views, but I was also wanting to make sure that I made it to the overlook before it was too late.

I continued walking while enjoying the beautiful sunset.

The sky remained dusk when I reached the overlook.  The boardwalk led to a circular viewing area which seemed to cling to the side of the hill.

A closer look at the countryside below leaves me breathless….or it may have just been the hike.  I could feel the peace and quiet as I looked down over the valley.  I immediately took notice of the farmhouse, surrounded by acres of land and agreed that the hike was definitely worth the effort.

Have you had the opportunity to hike Buzzardroost Rock? I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.   Thanks for reading about my evening hike at Buzzardroost and wishing you many Happy Trails!

To hike Buzzardroost Rock, enter the following address into your GPS to  reach the parking lot for the trail:

Buzzardroost Rock Trail
16300 OH-125
West Union, OH  45693

Home Cooking at The Farm, Adena, OH

1 IMG_0395

Stephi,  from The Black Sheep Vineyard, suggested I visit The Farm for dinner which is located just around the corner from the winery.  She mentioned that the restaurant provided home-style cooking and recommended the prime rib with their homemade butter.  That sounded absolutely fabulous so I purchased a couple of bottles of wine and made my way over to the restaurant.

2 IMG_0999

I was greeted with a warm smile by the hostess, who led me to a table close to the fireplace.  The atmosphere was electric as waiters kept busy with a full house.  My server was helpful in providing me with a list of specials which included a Shrimp and Scallop Pasta with Grilled Vegetables & Alfredo with Salad for $22, Baked or Fried Cod with two sides for $14 and a twenty-ounce Cowboy Steak with two sides for $32.   There was also a Berry Chicken Salad with Raspberry Vinaigrette Dressing for $14.  The vegetable of the day was Broccoli with Cheese.  Everything sounded so fantastic, so I splurged on the Alfredo special and ordered ranch dressing with my salad.

3 IMG_0385

My salad was perfectly chilled with mixed greens, beets, green beans, cheese and croutons.  The dressing, a homemade ranch, was absolutely delicious and perfectly seasoned with ground pepper.  I checked out some of the orders passing from the kitchen to the tables where I noticed homemade noodles and stuffed Italian peppers.

I could sense my dinner was arriving as I smelled the creamy cheese sauce.  There were plenty of meat, vegetables and topped with fresh Parmesan cheese.  With so much food, I requested a take out box ahead of time, so I wouldn’t overeat and have leftovers for the next day or two.

IMG_0394

Before leaving, I had the wonderful opportunity of meeting Sally, the owner of the restaurant.  She is the epitome of hospitality and what a fabulous cook.  She learned that I was interested in writing about The Farm and wanted to introduce herself to me.  I thanked her for the delicious meal and before I could pay my bill, she met me at my table with another package….she was so excited to share with me her pot roast and wanted me to try her notorious bread pudding.  I would have loved to have tried the meal at the restaurant, but I was quite full from my delicious meal.  I needed to make it back to Columbus and thanked her again for her generous hospitality.   While I didn’t have room for dessert, I was happy that I saved time for the sunset.

Have you had the opportunity to visit The Farm in Adena, Ohio?  What did you order or what is your favorite meal?  I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.

Disclosure:   Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

Where to Eat:

The Farm Restaurant
1247 OH-150
Adena, Ohio  43901
Telephone:  740 769 2050

For more information about The Farm Restaurant, you can check out their Facebook page to access their menu and to find out more information about their hours of operation.  I would like to thank Sally and the staff at The Farm for their generous hospitality and kindness during my visit!  All opinions provided are my own!

Where to Drink:

The Black Sheep Winery
1454 US-250
Adena, Ohio  43901
Telephone:  740 546 3741

Where to Stay:

Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham
620 Lincoln Avenue
Cadiz, OH  43907
Telephone:  740 942 1161

IMG_0548

Yummy Pot Roast with Awesome Gravy

IMG_0550

Incredible Bread Pudding

IMG_0396

The Spectacular Sunset at The Farm Restaurant, Adena, OH

IMG_0387

Bodega Restaurant in Athens, OH

 

I arrived early for lunch at the Bodega in Athens, Ohio.  A well-known restaurant located in Uptown, it is a perfect stop for local students attending Ohio University.  The Bodega is a part of a co-operative, opened in 1986 under the Casa Nueva name as a restaurant.  The business continued to grow to include a salsa and later expanded to add The Bodega with its own kitchen.

I found a place at the bar to place my order and was handed a polyethylene coated piece of paper with the number 13.

In the corner of the restaurant is an electrical, back-lit board which displays a number when an order has been completed.  Once the number is displayed on the “Bingo Board”, there is a small pass-through to pick up the food.

Until my food was completed, I was happy to enjoy a Pineapple Hurricane made with orange juice, pineapple juice, grenadine and pineapple infused alcohol.

My grilled chicken burrito arrived with a side of chips and salsa, which was absolutely fresh with the perfect amount of heat.  I met a couple of students who had just arrived to the restaurant preparing for their last test of the day.  This was the last day of the semester for the students and many would be making the journey home.

As I finished the last of my burrito, the restaurant was filling up with students, so I grabbed my leftovers and headed back to The Plains to wait for my niece and nephew to return home.

Have you visited The Bodega inside of Casa Nueva?  What did you order?  I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.  Many thanks for reading about my visit to one of Athens’ best restaurants and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Casa Nueva – The Bodega
4 West State Street
Athens, OH  45701
Telephone:  740 592 2016

What to Eat:

Each day the restaurant prepares fresh salsas and ingredients for their wraps and burritos.  Each menu item is made to order and each selection comes highly recommended.

Nostalgic Nutcracker Family Restaurant in Pataskala, Ohio

Meeting my cousin for dinner, we decided on a spot that would make the halfway point for both of us, selecting The Nutcracker in Pataskala.  Located on the back roads of Ohio’s farmland, this gorgeous diner first opened as an ice cream parlor in 1995.

Taking my first step through the door, I recognized all of the features that make this restaurant a 1950’s diner, but I also could not help noticing that I was surrounded by Nutcrackers of all shapes and sizes.

The antique cars and authentic signs add to the charm of this roadside restaurant.  The black and white checkered floor throughout adds the final touch.  I felt a little nostalgic seeing all of the Coca Cola memorabilia as it reminded me of visiting my Grandfather.

My eyes were immediately drawn to the neon signs “Service Station” and the “FrosTop Root Beer” advertisement as I waited to be seated.  A small table next to a window sill held about fifteen more Nutcrackers in all shapes and sizes.

Looking through the menu, there were so many items that I had a difficult time narrowing down my order.  I remembered walking through the front door where I noticed the advertisement for Snicker Cookie Pie that I knew I wanted to save room for dessert.

I finally decided on the BLT sandwich with fries, placed my order and immediately flipped to the dessert page of the menu.  I did not wait long for my meal to arrive and asked for a slice of the seasonal  pumpkin roll with whipped cream.

Full from lunch and dessert, I approached the cash register where there was a large pastry display with whole pies, chocolate candies and their famous cream puffs.  I was tempted to take a few items to go, but thought it would be best to pass on the additional sugar and wait until the next time I was in town.

Instead of dinner next time, I wouldn’t mind trying a couple of desserts.

Have you stopped by The Nutcracker in Pataskala for an amazing trip down memory lane?  Let me know what you ordered by leaving a message in the comments section below.  Many thanks for reading about my fabulous dining experience at The Nutcracker and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Nutcracker Family Restaurant
63 E. Broad Street
Pataskala, OH  43062
Telephone:  740 964 0056

Where to Eat:

Nutcracker Family Restaurant
63 E. Broad Street
Pataskala, OH  43062
Telephone:  740 964 0056