Top 10 Eats: Toledo

Toledo is known for it's many restaurants and I am known for not frequenting too many of them. I love to cook at home, however there are only a select few that I choose to be a patron. For me it's a cumulative event, I want a good atmosphere, fresh food, a delicious menu, and space to sit and enjoy my meal. I have here my list of TOP 10 spots to eat in and around Toledo. I have a select few, some are more of brunch focus, some are ideal to satisfy my sweet tooth, and others are open all day round and are perfect anytime! Whether you are visiting t-town for the first time or if you are native that is looking for a new place to find great grub, here are my favs!

First I wanted to start out with my favorite breakfast/brunch spot. I visit at least twice a month with the girls, the hubs, or even with my fam.

1. First Watch
The food here is always superb and even totes the slogan, "Yeah, it's fresh!", which it always is. The rustic farm decor and fresh from scratch meals make this the perfect place to satisfy any taste bud. I haven't found anything on the menu that I don't LOVE. I've had almost one of everything, plus they have a revolving seasonal menu with favorites that are sure to please and of course add a bit of fresh flavor 4 times a year. Love this place! Some of my favorite selections include their AM Superfoods Bowl, Avocado Toast, & their Healthy Turkey!

2. Flying Joe 
I love myself a good cup of joe, if you're looking for a unique coffee shop that has great eats and of course even better coffee, this is the place to be. They also serve alcohol as of recently, I am not much of a drinker, however I think this just adds so much more character to this veteran owned business that offers not only over the top java concoctions, but also has a small business feel. The owner hand makes the majority of the bakery items- delicious, and of course their coffee is 10/10.

The next couple I usually meet up for lunch dates or study sessions. I am normally more apt to frequent lunch spots as opposed to dinner meals. But these are golden either way!

3. Balance Pan Asian Grille
Where do I start here....? This is hands down my favorite place to find a meal. If I only could pick one for the rest of my life, it would be Balance! They offer such an array of fresh foods with season/flavor combinations that can't be beat. They offer tacos, bowls, bubble tea, and delicious nutritious sides. Vegan & vegetarian options available! My go-tos are the Wiseman Bowl with grilled chicken and brown rice, the Taro bubble milk tea, or the Five Spice Tacos- just to mention a few slices of perfection!

4. Zingos
Fresh. Authentic. Traditional. Amazing. Best chicken gyro I have ever had. Everything from their soups, kabobs, to smoothies, and baked goods. Everything is done in house & hands down amazing! Family owned and local. I love the great lunch offerings and weekly specials. Once I find something I love, I have the tendency to stick with it. Being a creature of habit, I haven't ventured from my tried and true chicken gyro, however I have enjoyed many of their seasonal salads, baked goods, and special menu weekly!

5. Fowl and Fodder
Can't go wrong with a farm to table and this place not only brings fresh eats to the table, but the menu is amazing. I have tried many of their lunch specials and my favorites are black bean and sweet potato tacos, their duck tacos, kale and roasted beet salad, avocado toast, or either their grilled chicken or almond chicken wraps. They offer fresh & delicious taste tempting combos and I always leave full!

6. Swig
Local spot that has a revolving beer list and a killer gourmet bar menu that can't be beat. This is the hubs favorite spot! In the warmer months they have a great outdoor patio with live music and it's in such a great location, close enough to stumble home if need be! Their Super Charged Caesar salad is my main pick! 

7. 5th St Pub
This is the place to find yourself some fire grilled ZA! I am not a big pizza fan, however this place offers a great thin crust option that has fresh ingredients and of course their bar has great mixed drinks, different bars, and drink specials. I have been enjoying the Seared Tuna Salad on my last few visits.

If you know Ariel, you know I live for this sweet tooth of mine! The next few are taste tempting delicious sweet choice picks!

8. Mr. Freeze
In the summer, I may be responsibe for funding this place on my own. Such a great walk down the street from home here in Perrysburg, they offer creative speciality sundaes, blizzard type mixers, and yummy cones with all the toppings.

9. Nedley's 
Ice cream & coffee cake shop here in Perrysburg! Local business that makes great desserts and serves perfectly mixed shakes, soft serve, & scoop ice cream. The owner works in shop and is so friendly. They have a great mix of homemade baked goods and waffle cones!

10. So Sweet 
I fell in love with this desserterie many years ago when they first opened and I couldn't be happier with their great success. They are thriving and have been able to expand their services. The most delicious drool worthy beautiful macaroons, baklava, cakes, and many other traditional Lebanese and French desserts. If you are looking for the wow factor in a dessert, this is the place to find breath taking desserts that are almost too beautiful to eat!