The 2024 Guide to Attractions & Restaurants in Mentor, Ohio

Mentor, Ohio is a great place for shopping, playing, hiking, or relaxing because of its recent growth and development. Many people often remark that Mentor is the best of both worlds! Pastures greet you on one side of the city. While sandy beaches, lagoons, and shopping meet you on the other.  

While Mentor Ohio offers a lot, one thing it doesn’t miss out on is its cuisine. Offering everything from American to Asian-inspired meals, it’ll be hard to find something you won’t like even for the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re a local Mentorite seeking something new, or a traveler passing by, this comprehensive guide is your ticket to uncovering the best that Mentor has to offer.  

Top 5 of the best restaurants in Mentor, Ohio 

Indulge your taste buds at Mentor’s culinary hotspots, where each bite is a celebration of flavor and innovation. Here are the top five restaurants that consistently delight locals and visitors alike with their exceptional cuisine and inviting ambiance.  

Skye Bistro & Pub 

Don’t be fooled about the location of this restaurant! This elegant restaurant in Lake County located in the Best Western Plus in Mentor, Ohio. Skye Bistro & Pub offers a substantial range of gluten free options and entrees for anyone to love. Even better yet, this eatery offers classic handheld options like a crab cake sandwich that taste great after a day of exploring. 

Better yet, while you visit Mentor, Ohio and stay at the hotel that houses the Skye Bistro, you can order room service directly to your room from their menu. How’s that for convenience? 

Skye Bistro & Pub’s location is at 8434 Mentor Ave, Mentor, OH 44060 

Winking Lizard 

Winking Lizard in Mentor Ohio stands as a beacon of culinary excellence and camaraderie. Boasting a vibrant atmosphere and a menu burgers, grilled meat, and chicken wings! One of its standout offerings of this establishment is its “Tourist Tuesdays,” a weekly event where patrons can embark on a culinary journey around the globe with specially crafted dishes inspired by different cuisines.  

Beer enthusiasts flock to The Winking Lizard for its renowned “Tour of Beers,” a curated selection of brews from near and far that promises to tantalize every palate. Additionally, beer aficionados can extend their exploration at Lizardville, the beer store and whiskey bar located just 18 miles away from the restaurant.  

The Winking Lizard’s location is at 9570 Mentor Ave, Mentor, OH 44060 

Melt Bar and Grill 

Melt Bar and Grill in Mentor, Ohio, isn’t just a restaurant – it’s an experience. Founded by Cleveland musician and chef Matt Fish, Melt brings together gourmet comfort food, craft beer, and a welcoming atmosphere that caters to everyone. But what’s the cuisine of choice you may ask? Melt Bar and Grill focuses on all things grilled cheese! 

From classic grilled cheese sandwiches to an array of American dishes served in a fun and unpretentious way, Melt offers something for everyone. It isn’t just about the food and drinks; it’s the unique chemistry of it all that makes Melt truly special. 

Melt Bar and Grill’s location is at 7289 Mentor Ave, Mentor, OH 44060 

Kiko’s Kitchen 

Kiko’s Kitchen in Mentor, Ohio, stands out as a must-visit destination for its authentic flavors and welcoming ambiance. With a menu inspired by Asian and American cuisine, each dish at Kiko’s is crafted with care, using fresh ingredients to bring to life unique creations. Whether you’re looking to dive into some chicken katsu or chow down on a traditional burger, Kiko’s has delightful eats for all. 

Kiko’s Kitchen location is at 9179 Mentor Ave, Mentor, OH 44060 

The Spot on Lakeshore 

Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, The Spot on Lakeshore offers a blend of “go-to” classics for any of your cravings. But don’t worry, “The Spot” also offers plenty of eccentric dishes for you to try. From breakfast pick-me-ups like tiramisu pancakes, to truly creative finds like coffee-rubbed short rib hash, this restaurant nook guarantees to hit the spot. 

The Spot on Lakeshore’s location is at 7272 Lakeshore Blvd, Mentor, OH 44060

Pizza 

No shortage of pizza in Mentor, Ohio! Pizza lovers have a plethora of delicious options to satisfy their cravings, spoiling them for choice. From classic pizzerias serving up New York-style slices to trendy spots offering artisanal pies with gourmet toppings, there’s something for every palate. 

Longo’s Pizza 

Made from scratch, authentic, and Italian. That’s what Lango’s Pizza lives by! Immerse yourself in an unforgettable dining experience featuring authentic Italian cuisine and ambiance. From traditional pizzas to mouthwatering pasta dishes, Longo’s menu boasts the finest Italian fare made from fresh, seasonal ingredients and time-honored family recipes.  

Lango’s ensures every occasion is elevated with delectable dishes and impeccable service. What’s unique, is Lango’s doesn’t just offer Italian food. Explore selections like the “Ragin’ Cajan” sandwich, Bang Bang shrimp and more to discover something new. Discover the essence of pizza in Mentor, Ohio, with Lango’s. 

Lango’s Pizza’s location is at 8907 Mentor Ave, Mentor, OH 44060 

Zappitelli’s Pizza, Pasta & Parm 

Experience the essence of authentic Italian cuisine with a modern twist at Zappitelli’s Pizza, Pasta & Parm in Mentor, Ohio. For 38 years, Zappitelli’s has been a beacon of culinary excellence, serving up fresh, homemade dishes inspired by Old World Italian traditions.  

Step into Zappitelli’s offers a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere, where our passion for quality shines through in every bite. Whether you’re craving pizza, subs, pasta, or salads, Zappitelli’s has you covered. 

Zappitelli’s location is at 9570 Mentor Avenue, Mentor, OH 44060 

J’s Pizza Market 

Experience a fresh approach to pizza in Mentor, Ohio, with J’s Pizza Market! Offering a unique twist on the traditional pizza experience, J’s provides fresh and healthy alternatives to traditional pizza. J’s offers “take & bake” or “bake & take” options for you to either eat your pie in house baked on their wood stone hearth or bake and eat in the comfort of your home.  

Their dough is made fresh daily and topped with a selection of high-quality, both unusual and traditional ingredients. And don’t forget to read those baking instructions if you choose to bake at home! 

J’s Pizza Market’s location is at 7404 Center Street, Mentor, OH 44060

Hibachi and Asian infusion 

In Mentor, Ohio, you can try delicious hibachi and Asian fusion food that combines cooking skills with tasty flavors. From sizzling hibachi grills to innovative fusion dishes, diners can indulge in a variety of savory delights that tantalize the senses.  

Crab King Pholicious Restaurant 

Also known as “Crab King” in Mentor, Ohio by locals this culinary experience is sure to delight! With Asian and Seafood fusion, King Crab brings together flavors from around the world. Chefs with decades of experience in exotic locales craft these dishes.  

Dive into customizable seafood dishes where you control the spice and seasoning levels. From Vietnamese favorites to satisfying Rice Bowls, comforting Pho, and crispy Fried Seafood and Chicken, there’s something for every palate to savor. Tasting Crab King in Mentor Ohio is something you won’t want to miss. 

Crab King Pholicious Restaurant’s location is at 8900 Mentor Ave, Mentor, OH 44060 

Blue Fin Asian Fusion Hibachi & Sushi Bar 

Embark on a culinary journey like no other at Blue Fin Asian Fusion Hibachi & Sushi Bar in Mentor, Ohio. This restaurant combines hibachi and sushi for a lively Japanese dining experience in Mentor, Ohio. Watch skilled chefs dazzle with their hibachi grill prowess as they prepare your meal with flair and precision. 

Offering over 30+ sushi roll options and 10+ options for hibachi plate combos, Blue Fin has something for everyone. 

Blue Fin’s location is at 8820 Mentor Ave, Mentor, OH 44060 

Maki 

Discovering your hibachi in Mentor Ohio wouldn’t be complete without a trip to Maki! Maki offers unique spicy seafood salads, noodles, and hibachi dinners, going beyond the usual meal options. With your choice of a combination of two or even three proteins, Maki is sure to get your vote for the best hibachi in Mentor, Ohio. 

Maki’s location is at 9582 Diamond Centre Drive, Mentor, OH 44060

Italian 

In Mentor, Ohio, Italian cuisine transports diners to the heart of Italy with its rich flavors and comforting dishes. Whether you’re craving a classic lasagna or a contemporary twist on a traditional favorite, Mentor Ohio’s Italian restaurants promise an authentic culinary experience. 

TJ’s on the Avenue 

Experience real Italian food at TJ’s on the Avenue, a popular family-owned restaurant in Mentor, Ohio. Operated by the Pulling Family since 1992, TJs specializes in homemade pastas, sauces, and bread, ensuring every dish is crafted with love and tradition. From classic pasta dishes to tantalizing chicken, veal, seafood, and gluten-free options, TJ’s menu offers a variety of choices to please every palate. 

You won’t get bored visiting TJ’s on the Avenue. They not only offer a large menu of options but offer weekly specials for diners to enjoy. 

TJ’s on the Avenue’s location is at 7485 Mentor Ave, Mentor, OH 44060 

Pastina Rustic Italian Kitchen 

Pastina’s in Mentor, Ohio truly embodies the concept of farm-to-table. From scratch-made dough fired in their Italian pizza oven to daily handcrafted pasta from their Italian pasta machine, Pastina ensures an authentic dining experience.  

With a commitment to supporting local farmers and prioritizing sustainability, Pastina’s menu showcases the best of Ohio’s produce. Every meal enjoyed at Pastina not only celebrates Italian culinary traditions but also fosters a connection to the local community.  

Pastina Rustic Italian Kitchen’s location is at 9354 Mentor Ave, Mentor, OH 44060 

Mama Roberto’s Italian Restaurant 

Mama Roberto’s offers diners the experience to step back into your neighborhood pizza parlor. Since 1999, Mama Roberto’s has been serving traditional baked bread, antipasti, and sandwiches that taste just like homemade Italian food. Most notable of all, Mama Roberto’s is praised for their original Cleveland style pizza. Just be sure to note that at the time of this article, Mama Roberto’s offers carryout only.  

Mama Roberto’s Italian Restaurant’s location is at 8658 Mentor Ave, Mentor, OH 44060

Other top picks  

Yours Truly 

Truly Yours in Mentor, Ohio is the place to be if you’re looking for a homecooked meal or classic diner vibes. Truly Yours remarks itself as something for both AM and PM people. Offering a wide variety of breakfast and dinner selections to choose from, Truly Yours doesn’t disappoint. 

Truly Yours’ location is at 7280 Center Street, Mentor, OH 44060 

Manhattan Deli 

Whether you’re stopping by for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, don’t miss their homemade bagels served with their famous cream cheese spread that’s served morning, noon and night. If you love a classic sandwich, Manhattan Deli takes the New York sub to a whole new level. With over 50+ sandwich styles to choose from, it’ll be hard to walk out hungry.  

Manhattan Deli’s location is at 8900 Mentor Ave # A, Mentor, OH 44060 

Dynamite Dawgs 

Dogs, burgers and shakes; that’s all there is to it at Dynamite Dawgs! This restaurants has an awesome selection of hot dogs to choose from. From the Yard Dawg that piled high with jalapenos and smokey cheddar, to the Cleveland Browns inspired link, there’s always something adventurous to try! 

Dynamite Dawgs’ location is at: 6312 Suite A, Center St., Mentor, OH 44060

Top things to do in Mentor, Ohio 

After you’ve chowed down, don’t forget Mentor, Ohio has no shortage of activities to keep you entertained. Here are our top picks:

1. Explore the scenic trails and wildlife at Mentor Lagoons Nature Preserve & Marina. 
2. Spend a day soaking up the sun and enjoying the sandy shores of Headlands Beach State Park. 
3. Dive into local history at the James A. Garfield National Historic Site, the former home of the 20th President of the United States. 
4. Indulge in retail therapy at the Great Lakes Mall, home to a wide range of shops and boutiques. 
5. Discover the vibrant arts scene at the Wildwood Cultural Center, featuring art exhibits, classes, and events. 
6. Cool off and have fun at Pioneer Waterland & Dry Fun Park, with waterslides, pools, and other attractions just outside Mentor. 
7. Tee off at one of Mentor’s picturesque golf courses, such as Black Brook Golf Course or Little Mountain Country Club in lake County. 
8. Enjoy a relaxing day of fishing or boating on the serene waters of Mentor Marsh State Nature Preserve. 
9. Sample local wines and enjoy scenic views at Debonne Vineyards, one of Ohio’s largest wineries in Lake County. 
10. Treat yourself to delicious cuisine and live entertainment at one of Mentor’s many restaurants and bars along Mentor Avenue. 

Whether you’re a foodie or an adventure-seeker, Mentor, Ohio has something for everyone. So, the next time you find yourself on the East Coast, be sure to give Mentor a try. Mentor doesn’t disappoint. 

We love our Mentor, Ohio customers! Santanna Energy Services has been proudly providing easy home electricity and gas plans to our Ohio customers for over 35 years! We’re proud to offer a wide range of renewable energy solutions and products tailored to meet the unique needs of our Buckeyes. Our mission is to provide innovative and cost-effective energy solutions that will help our customers achieve their energy goals and help the environment along the way.