Best of Akron Dining
A Guide to Great Spots Near Married Life Counseling
When it comes to dining in Akron, my husband and I rarely need to venture beyond our 10-mile radius. The area is packed with fantastic options that cater to every craving, whether you’re in the mood for breakfast, lunch, a coffee break or a night out.
Out on the Town in Akron
Thinking of spending some quality time together after your session? No matter where you’re coming from, we have the perfect spot for you! Married Life Counseling is nestled among some of Akron’s best restaurants, coffee shops, bakeries, and shopping centers (see map below). Whether you’re here for a morning, afternoon, or evening session, we’ve got a recommendation to suit your needs.
Breakfasting
While there are plenty of breakfast chains in the area, we prefer the local spots. Here are a few of our favorites:
The West Side Bakery (next door): Located in quaint Pilgrim Square Plaza, you can stroll across the street to the best bakery in the area!
Cafe Arnone (Fairlawn): Enjoy fantastic coffee and versatile breakfast options like avocado toast, a gluten-free breakfast bowl, and delectable bakery items. Stay long enough, and you can indulge in a scoop of Sal’s Gelato.
The Eye Opener (Akron): This local diner never disappoints! I love the Red Eye Hash with poached eggs, while my husband can’t resist The Opener and a plate of pancakes.
The Valley Cafe (in the Merriman Valley): We love this place- they have a second location in Wadsworth! The pancakes are the size of the plate, they use REAL maple syrup and their seasonal flavored coffee smells as good as it tastes. I’m a corned beef hash girl and theirs is the best!
Lunching
The West Side Bakery (Nextdoor): Beyond fantastic sweets and treats, the bakery offers lunch with soups, sandwiches, wraps, and salads. Don’t forget to treat yourself to something sweet for dessert.
The Eye Opener (Akron): If you’re in the mood for a great burger, this is the place to go.
Burntwood Tavern (Fairlawn): On a nice day, enjoy the beautiful Ohio weather and grab a table on the patio. Their salmon is excellent, and the Lobster Bisque is a must-try.
D’Agnese’s Italian (West Akron): Pronounced “don-yay-zee’s,” this wonderful Italian restaurant offers both lunch and dinner, with fabulous food and tiramisu that’s to die for.
The Winery at Wolf Creek (Norton): Perfect for picking up carryout and unwinding in nature. The winery has the best view in Akron and delightful Ohio wines. We love grabbing sushi from Sakura or a pizza from Master’s or the local favorite, Rizzi’s. If you order from Rizzi’s, you have to get a box of Jojo’s.
Afternoon Treats
Biggby Coffee (across the street): Yes, they have Pumpkin Spice Lattes! Although this location is drive-thru only, Sand Run Parkway is just minutes away, perfect for talking and walking.
Pulp Smoothie Bar (across the street): Grab an afternoon smoothie and explore the shops in Pilgrim Square.
Cafe Arnone (Fairlawn): As mentioned before, this spot is great for breakfast, but their coffee and gelato also make for a tasty afternoon treat.
Portal West Coffee (Merriman Valley): An adorable coffee shop that’s hard to find even if you’re looking for it. Located in the lower level of Liberty Commons Shopping Plaza, the location has a furnished outdoor brick patio and plenty of cozy seating inside. Their coffee creations are works of art and are delicious.
Sal’s Gelato (Merriman Valley): Gelato made fresh every day! They also serve coffee and treats if it’s too chilly for gelato… is it ever too chilly for gelato?
Evening Dining
Heading North from Our Office:
Vaccaro’s Trattoria (Bath): Owner Raf Vaccaro makes every guest feel like a celebrity at this local Italian favorite. Their gourmet pizzas are named after their patrons! Try the Italian Wedding Soup, a recipe from Nonna, or the pappardelle bolognese, which my husband swears is just as good as mine.
The Merchant Tavern (Merriman Valley): Our favorite spot in the Valley, with great food and a lovely outside patio. We recommend the maple glazed salmon (gluten-free and filling!). After dinner, you can walk off your meal on the Towpath trail just around the corner.
Heading East from Our Office:
Lock 15 (North Downtown Akron): This is no ordinary pub grub. With options for vegans, vegetarians, and those with gluten intolerance, everyone leaves satisfied. Plus, they have great craft beer!
Luigi’s (North Downtown Akron): An Akron icon since 1949, Luigi’s is cash or check only. You must order a pizza (pepperoni and banana peppers is our go-to) and the double tossed salad. Be prepared for a wait if you arrive after 5 PM, but don’t worry—the Northside Market next door has plenty of shopping from local artists and vendors.
DBA (North Downtown Akron): A gorgeous restaurant in the heart of downtown, walking distance from the Towpath. Their outdoor patio is the best in the area, and guests love searching for the hidden speakeasy.
Crave (Downtown Akron): Located in the Bowery district, Crave offers a fantastic eclectic menu in a beautiful setting. The chicken and waffles are a family favorite—don’t forget to getthe hot sauce on the side.
The Lockview (Downtown Akron): Known for gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches and the best tots in town. The beer selection is extensive, and the tomato soup is perfect for grilled cheese dipping. The rooftop patio is open seasonally.
Alexander Pierce (East Akron): Walking in is an experience in itself—IYKYK! With housemade pasta, oysters on the half shell, and scrumptious sea scallops, you’ll have a hard time choosing.
Heading South from Our Office
Wolf Creek Tavern (Norton): Locals from Copley-Norton often try to keep this gem to themselves. Originally a hotel built in the 1840s, this restaurant retains many original features, including a 1920s speakeasy in the basement. The menu is always evolving, and the spacious patio is perfect for outdoor dining.
D’Agnese’s Italian (West Akron): Pronounced “don-yay-zee’s,” this Italian restaurant is a true delight. My husband, a Chicken Parmesan aficionado- despite not having a drop of Italian blood- considers theirs his absolute favorite.
Heading West from Our Office
111 Bistro (Medina/Montville): While we don’t often venture out to Medina, when we do, 111 Bistro is our go-to spot for dinner. The menu is as unique as it is delicious, featuring dishes like pork cheek, squash ravioli, schnitzel, and chicken roulade.
After Session or Dinner Drinks or Coffee
750ml (right next door): This charming little wine bar was opened by friends of ours and has quickly become a favorite. The wine selection is excellent, and the menu changes seasonally to keep things fresh.
Nervous Dog Coffee (West Akron & Montrose/Fairlawn open until 8 PM): Come, sit, stay in the cozy ‘bar’ atmosphere of the Nervous Dog. They locally roast their own high quality coffee beans twice a week. My favorite is a Honey Oat Milk Decaf Latte, even the decaf is good!
South Point Tavern (West Akron): From the outside, you might think this place is closed, but once inside, you’ll find a hidden gem. West Akron locals swear by this spot for its phenomenal cocktails.
Good Company (Akron): As you head downtown, take a right down Maple Street, and you’ll find this historical fire station turned swanky cocktail bar. The cool atmosphere, enthusiastic bartenders, and expertly crafted cocktails make this a must-visit.
Spending Time Together
No matter when your counseling session is, we have the perfect spot to help you unwind and connect while enjoying some of Akron’s best food. If you’re a potential new client and curious about our counseling services, feel free to give us a call at 234-303-2325, and we’ll be happy to answer any questions.
Visit our blog page for more great date ideas to help you connect as a couple!
