What is a vacation without great dining? Not a vacation at all! The folks at Put-in-Bay are well aware of that fact which is why you will find more amazing restaurants per square foot here than anywhere else in Ohio!
Mr. Ed’s Bar & Grille
Mr Ed's Bar and Grille is a crowd favorite at Put-in-Bay. This famous Put-in-Bay hotspot is not only one of the best places to grab a drink, it's also the new home of Cameo Pizza. Cameo offers their specialty pizzas, chicken wings and more out of Mr. Ed's kitchen. Diners can eat inside the bar, or opt for lunch on the outdoor patio. So, at Mr Ed's Bar and Grille there are options for everybody. The location of Mr. Ed's is ideal, on the main street of Put-in-Bay. Furthermore, the Delaware Avenue block has the majority of the shops, restaurants and... More Information
Joe’s Bar & Restaurant
Joe's Bar and Restaurant is a local favorite hangout. The atmosphere is inviting, putting patrons at ease. Guests can expect to leave refreshed from Joe's. Finding the location is easy. Joe's is located on the corner of Meechen Road and Catawba Avenue. South Bass Island State Park is a short walk away. The building is very distinguishable with a striking red exterior. Moreover, the structure has a rich and lively history. Previously, the space was used as a press house for grapes. The wine making traditions of Put-in-Bay run deep. Here, the Doller press house, was integral in the wine... More Information
Green Room at Mr. Ed’s
The Green Room at Mr. Ed's is the premier spot for late night entertainment. Dance the night away under the stars at this favorite rooftop bar. Also, enjoy sweeping views of DeRivera Park and the downtown Put-in-Bay harbor. Get with the beat, as the best DJ's in the area keep the scene jumping. Green Room Location The home bar of this great Put-in-Bay hot spot is Mr. Ed's Bar and Grille. Mr. Ed's has an outstanding location on the main strip. Furthermore, the majority of the best Put-in-Bay Attractions and Shopping options are a short walk away. Also, the Jet... More Information
MIST Pool Bar
MIST Pool Bar is the island's hottest wet spot! Here, guests can immerse themselves in the beautiful setting. The sounds of the waterfalls crashing sets the tone. Swim right up for a hand crafted cocktail while enjoying the scene. Weekends feature outstanding local DJ's spinning tunes. The scene is electric! Weekdays offer a more relaxed vibe, a respite from the hustle of daily life. Be sure to check the Entertainment Schedule, as great acts play on the pool deck throughout the season. MIST Pool Bar Location MIST is located behind Mr. Ed's Bar and Grill. Mr. Ed's is situated in... More Information
Subway
Subway is the place to eat fresh on Put-in-Bay. The location is in the lobby of the Commodore Resort. The smells of freshly baked bread lure in customers. Additionally, the variety of selections and value make this a visitor favorite. Therefore, to save some funds during a Put-in-Bay visit, Subway is a viable option. The Commodore Resort is situated just behind Mr. Ed's Bar and Grille. So, to find this sandwich shop from Delaware Ave., just look for the Subway sign in front of Mr. Ed's. Then, walk right down the alley for a sub made to order. The choices... More Information
Cameo Pizza
Cameo Pizza of Put-in-Bay prides themselves on using fresh ingredients. The crust and sauce is fresh, made daily. So, diners can expect a fresh and tasty pizza every time. Additionally, Cameo's offers subs, wraps, salads and more. There is a reason this has become a staple of Put-in-Bay. The location of this favored eatery is in downtown Put-in-Bay on Catawba Avenue. Put-in-Bay Town Hall, the Put-in-Bay Police Department and the Lake Erie Islands Historical Museum are just steps away. Guests can opt to visit this location for carry out service. Otherwise, delivery service is available. Delivery hours plunge deep into... More Information
Last Resort Engine Company
Welcome to Put-in-Bay, Ohio. Have you ever looked at a firetruck and thought to yourself "I'd love to have myself a beer in there?" Well look no further, because Last Resort Engine Company is the bar of your dreams! Last Resort Engine Company This awesome Put-in-Bay bar is literally a firetruck turned into a bar. The truck itself is a 1980's "LaFrance Pumper" and is actually still working condition despite its age. Although, now that its tank has been removed, it won't be fighting fires anytime soon. Another cool thing about the bar is the way they've been able to... More Information
Biergarten at the Boathouse
The Biergarten at the Boathouse is a new and great addition to the Put-in-Bay Bar Scene. Here, guests can choose from a fine selection of German beers and food. Order an authentic German bratwurst and wash it down with a stein of authentic brew. Other food choices include Bavarian pretzels and savory potato cakes. A comfortable outdoor seating area is in the rear, beckoning guests for relaxation. Biergarten at the Boathouse Location Downtown Put-in-Bay is home to the Biergarten. Furthermore, this is the first pub guests will encounter upon disembarking the Jet Express. So, for the quickest beverage off the... More Information
Boardwalk Restaurant
The Boardwalk Restaurant has many tasty Put-in-Bay dining options. Within the complex, there are a variety of food offerings. Most notably, is their Lobster Bisque. This restaurant is hailed as the Lobster Bisque Capital of Ohio. The Boardwalk has something for everyone. The waterfront location affords guests with expansive views of Lake Erie and the downtown docks. Additionally, sweeping vistas of downtown Put-in-Bay are sure to inspire. This building on the shore is very distinguishable. Boardwalk Restaurant- Dining Choices Galore! The Boardwalk Restaurant is comprised of several different eateries. On the main deck there are three distinct eateries. First, the... More Information
Boathouse Restaurant
The Boathouse Bar and Grill on Put-in-Bay is ready to serve you. They have been offering delectable meals and cold drinks for over 50 years. Additionally, the Boathouse is the proud home of outstanding island entertainment. Great eats and great bands is their motto and they certainly live up to it. The location is nothing short of prime. Located in downtown Put-in-Bay on Hartford Avenue, the Boathouse is near all of the action. Also, the Jet Express dock and downtown marina is just a short walk away. So, this is a favorite among boaters due to the proximity to the... More Information
It doesn’t matter what you’re in the mood for, pub food or fine dining, Mexican or seafood, anything in between, you’ll find it all! And you can definitely find a place to grab a slice! Breakfast to late-night, there’s always an option to satisfy! Some of the best memories with family and friends are made over a great meal. We get together for dinners to celebrate holidays, birthdays, and more.
A great meal can take your vacation with people you care about to another level. At Put-in-Bay, we have so many great dining choices, ranging from casual to upscale, and any style of cuisine you can think of. The only challenge will be trying all of the Put-in-Bay restaurants that sound good during your stay! Read on to learn more about all of the great choices for a meal when out at Put-in-Bay!
Unique Put-in-Bay Restaurants and Cuisine
When you explore the Lake Erie Islands, local authentic cuisine will be discovered all over. Meals ranging from simple fresh lake fish enjoyed with a view of the Bay to high-end but casual restaurants like the Goat Soup and Whiskey and everything you would expect in between. You could eat in a different Put-in-Bay dining for every meal. You might ask yourself, Can you make reservations for Put-in-Bay Restaurants? Well, most of our dining choices are walk-in and no reservations are needed!
Superb Lake Erie game fish like walleye and perch is typical – you’ll get no fresher in the classiest restaurants in the world. Island entertainment in the evening is a must: beautiful dancing, traditional island guitar acts, and mesmerizing steel drums. The crowd participation with the popular late-night DJs in our Put-in-Bay clubs and bars is a highlight. How many bars are in Put-in-Bay Ohio? Well over a dozen!
Seafood and Concerts
Surrounded by Lake Erie, the shallowest of the Great Lakes, local fishermen venture beyond the lighthouse before sunrise. Their catches help Put-in-Bay restaurants earn a reputation for creating the best cuisine in the area. Fresh seafood comes straight out of the lake and is prepared simply by local chefs. They use delicious local ingredients from our nutrient-rich fresh island gardens. Many island chefs even grow their own herbs and vegetables for a truly Green dining experience. But don’t worry, there are quick-service places serving great food to diners like Subway and the Chicken Patio, and the Burrito Stand.
You can even get some fair food at the annual Bash on the Bay country concert in Put n Bay Ohio. Past performers have been Toby Keith Put in Bay, Rascal Flatts Put in Bay, and Kid Rock Put in Bay tickets. Local hotels offer their own unique food offerings also such as the Islander Inn Put in Bay and the Bayshore Resort Put in Bay. And as an added bonus, if you book direct (instead of using Airbnb Put in Bay or VRBO Put in Bay), then you will usually save money that you can use for great dining on the island!
Love fresh food?
There are over forty places to eat and drink on the little island of Put-in-Bay. Whether you are arriving from the Miller Ferry or Jet Express your next meal is not far away. This page features just a few! Also, check out more dining options at PutinbayDining.com. Or simply ask a Put-in-Bay taxi driver where he or she loves to eat, you may be surprised!
Seafood meals at one of the best restaurants the Upperdeck feature favorite local dishes like famous lobster bisque cooked in a traditional manner and served in a sourdough bread bowl. Located on the Boardwalk off of Bayview Ave, this great spot on the island with an amazing view. From there you can see Put-in-Bay Harbor, Perry’s Monument and some days even Cleveland far off in the distance. Try Hooligans on Catawba Ave for the freshest perch tacos on the island. Lake Erie Perch is a favorite at Mossbacks across from Derivera Park. Alaskan King Crab entrees make an appearance when it is in season.
Put-in-Bay Restaurants for Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Where to get Breakfast at Put-in-Bay restaurants? Start the day with a delicious breakfast of Eggs Benedict at Frosty Bar or Bloody Marys at Reel Bar. Or maybe try the omelets at Pasquale’s Cafe on Loraine Ave or crepes at the Forge. The Village Bakery is a hot spot for danishes and coffee unless you favor the margaritas across the street with live entertainment. Ice cream at Dairy Isle is always an option, any time of day.
A perfect lunch in downtown Put-in-Bay can be a simple burger and fries at the Boathouse Bar or a Cuban sandwich at Topsy Turvey. Late-night street vendor dogs or Cameo pizza slices in Mr. Ed’s Bar and Grille on Delaware Ave, or even a fine restaurant menu and appetizers at Upper Deck but in a casual environment like Mama Marias (famous for their meatball subs). What is the number for Pizza on Put-in-Bay? Your best bet for late-night free delivery is 419-285-4444. Make sure you are ordering from the Cameos located in Put-in-Bay, OH 43456
As well as gourmet sandwiches, pizza, and Caribbean conch fritters are on offer by the water’s edge, there are many colorful cafés serving light meals and your fix of great eatery coffee. Is there a brewery on Put-in-Bay? Yes, there is, and it called the Put-in-Bay Brewery! There is even a distillery at the Put-in-Bay Brewery with outdoor seating.
Looking for a specific type of restaurant on South Bass Island? The island offers many different type of restaurants all of which are great options. Hooligans is an Irish Pub that offers some phenomenal burgers. Their Hoolie Dip is a must every time you visit. The Old Forge is the place to go for crepe lovers. Fire Engine Pizza Company is one of the many satisfying pizza spots on the island. The best Cuban sandwich on the island is found at the Keys. Enjoy a margarita while trying Rita’s Cantina loaded nachos.
After Hours at Put-in-Bay
When the sun sets and you’ve had your fill of our delicious cuisine. The real party begins! There are plenty of things to do in Put-in-Bay.
When the sun goes down, the party heats up. Put-in-Bay restaurants and bars boast the best nightlife of all the Lake Erie islands. Mix with friendly locals and boaters in open-air bars, most on the downtown strip where cool island vibes and spectacular vistas await. Grab a drink and enjoy the bands, whether local live music or a stunning sunset over the water at the Keys or Boardwalk restaurant.
Looking for the best Put-in-Bay Bars? Head to Delaware Avenue wher you find Mr. Eds and the Roundhouse Bar. If you are looking for a more lowkey bar head to Joe’s Bar, an islander favorite dive bar. Located near the state park just a short golf cart ride away. Biergarten is must for any German beer lover. The Reel Bar is another local favorite that offers live entertainment. There is no better place on the island to enjoy an delicious mojito than Mojito Bay.
When you want to go large, head to one of our pumping nightclubs, or join a nightly Put-in-Bay Rolling Pub Tour where you pedal yourself to the party. Above all, while our Put-in-Bay Restaurant’s nightlife is exciting and exotic, it’s extremely safe and fun. All of which are a short golf cart or taxi ride away from your Put-in-Bay resort. Stay Overnight and enjoy the late-night festivities! Visit the Key West of the Midwest today!
Frequently asked Questions
Can you walk around Put-in-Bay with alcohol?
Open containers of alcohol are not allowed on South Bass Island, including golf carts, streets, and outside of bars. However, Put-in-Bay offers a variety of restaurants with outdoor seating where you can enjoy both delicious food and alcoholic beverages. Some popular options on Bayview Ave. include the Boardwalk, Upper Deck, and Rita’s Cantina. For a stunning view, visit The Keys near the Jet Express. Downtown Put-in-Bay’s Delaware Ave. is the place to be for late-night fun, with Mr. Ed’s Bar & Grille and a Cameo Pizza inside. Enjoy the island’s dining scene while adhering to the regulations.
How long is the ferry ride at Put-in-Bay?
The Miller Ferry Line takes 18 minutes to reach Put-in-Bay from Catawba Island, while the Jet Express trip from Port Clinton takes approximately 25 minutes and 45 minutes from Sandusky.
On the Miller Ferry, you’ll enjoy a peaceful journey across Lake Erie, catching glimpses of Perry’s Monument and other islands along the way. Once you arrive, be sure to check out Taco Bay for delicious nachos and burritos.
The Jet Express provides an equally satisfying experience, with occasional views of Cleveland in the distance. Docking in downtown Put-in-Bay, it allows for immediate access to top-notch restaurants like The Keys, Upper Deck on the Boardwalk, Hooligans, and the Boathouse Bar. Downtown is also home to popular bars such as Mr. Ed’s Bar and Grille, Mossbacks, Frosty Bar, and the Reel Bar.
Enjoy a quick and scenic journey to Put-in-Bay and explore the island’s culinary and nightlife offerings.
Are there cars on Put-in-Bay?
While cars are permitted in Put-in-Bay, Ohio, they are not the preferred mode of transportation on the island.
Golf carts are the preferred method of getting around South Bass Island due to its small size and ease of maneuverability compared to larger vehicles. Downtown Put-in-Bay, particularly around Derivera Park where numerous restaurants are located, can get crowded, making golf carts a more convenient choice. Multiple cart rental businesses can be found at the Miller Ferry and Jet Express docks, as well as throughout the island. It’s worth noting that the distance from the state park to Perry’s Monument is only 1.7 miles, emphasizing the island’s compact size.
Opting for a golf cart allows for a smoother and more enjoyable experience while navigating the charming streets of Put-in-Bay.
What street are bars on in Put-in-Bay?
Most of the bars in Put-in-Bay are situated downtown on Delaware Ave.
While there are bars outside of downtown South Bass Island, the majority of Put-in-Bay’s bars can be found in the vibrant heart of the island around Derivera Park. Among these popular establishments are Fishbowl, Frosty Bar, and Mr. Ed’s Bar & Grille, to name a few. A notable advantage of these bars is that they are conveniently located within walking distance of each other, allowing visitors to easily explore and enjoy the diverse bar scene Put-in-Bay has to offer.
Do you have to be 21 to enter bars in Put-in-Bay?
Many downtown bars in Put-in-Bay allow underage customers before a specific time, but they become strictly 21 and over afterward.
South Bass Island attracts a predominantly 21 and over crowd during peak seasons, particularly on weekends. While it is a family-friendly destination during the day, the nightlife is geared toward adults. However, Put-in-Bay, Ohio still offers excellent options for families, including restaurants with delicious food. The Boardwalk, for example, provides outdoor seating with stunning views of Lake Erie, creating a memorable dining experience for all.