The best restaurants in Portage County

New Jersey–based counter-serve sandwich chain serving jumbo subs filled with cold cuts & toppings.

Hearty American fare & BBQ specialties, such as slabs of ribs & homemade slaw, in a breezy setting.

Fast-food chain with made-to-order burgers, fries & hot dogs, plus free peanuts while you wait.

Breakfast all day & American diner fare with vegetarian options are served at this easygoing eatery.

Bistro on Main in Kent nails the chef-driven comfort vibe with American favorites, pizza, and pasta alongside a proper martini lounge. Think sweet potato gnocchi with blackened shrimp, hearty steaks or meatloaf, plus easy online ordering and catering when you want great food without turning on the oven.

From the Stow newsletter, October 10, 2026

Guido's Original Pizza & Catering of Kent, established 1983, does homemade dough daily, signature sauce, and heaps of shredded provolone baked in a rotating carousel oven. Grab a bucket of flame-broiled or fried chicken with jo-jo's, then let them cater the next backyard hang.

From the Stow newsletter, October 9, 2026

Santo Matador Street Tacos keeps it fast and fresh with made-to-order street tacos, burritos, bowls, and sizzling fajitas, plus margs that actually taste like tequila. Dine in for the vibes or snag pickup or delivery when life gets busy... either way, expect bold flavors and generous portions.

From the Kent newsletter, September 13, 2026

Small, basic pizzeria whipping up New York-styles pies with many toppings, plus stromboli & salads.

Penn Station Sandwiches keeps it simple and delicious with fresh grilled cheesesteaks on hearth-baked bread, hand-cut fries cooked in cholesterol-free peanut oil, and lemonade squeezed right in front of you. Perfect when you want a fast, hot bite that tastes like you actually meant to treat yourself.

From the Kent newsletter, September 12, 2026

Lively, irreverent eatery with funky decor & a lengthy menu of American comfort eats.

The Venice Cafe has that moody mahogany, mural-filled vibe locals love, plus live music and an Erie Street Kitchen menu turning out farm-fresh hot chicken, seafood, and creative shareable toasts. It’s one of Kent’s originals dating back to 1941, a reliable spot for great drinks, better stories, and late-night laughs.

From the Kent newsletter, September 8, 2026

Counter-serve chain serving up a menu of specialty or custom pizzas for takeout or delivery.

Local chain serving signature & build-your-own tacos, plus cocktails, in a hip, casual space.

Longtime Ohio chain featuring a signature submarine-style burger & other hefty sandwiches.

Italian comfort eats such as pasta, pizza & hearty sandwiches served in a low-key setting.

Barbecue restaurant featuring a self-serve beer wall as well as arcade games and a patio.