Best Places to Eat in Dayton

I have lived in Dayton, OH all my life. A little more than a year ago, I began a mission: to seek out the little restaurants, the "gems" of the Gem City, the best places to dine, and the most interesting atmospheres.

And now, I would like to tell you some of what I have found and would recommend to anyone who is living in, or visiting, Dayton.

Here's my best-of-the-best:

Troni's

A small, Italian restaurant tucked back away from the road - you might miss it if you're not looking. Troni's claims to be the only place in Dayton you can get authentic New York style, thin-crust pizza. OK, I'm game to try that out - ended up going with my family.

The first bite cemented their claim as truth - this pizza was really good! Everything about it, perfect, perfect. They have a large portion of their menu dedicated to Italian fare, largely in the form of different pastas. I have yet to try these - the pizza is cheaper and so good, it's hard to get anything else.

They also have a thicker pan pizza, the type you almost need a fork to eat - also highly recommended if you have something against thin crusts.

Location: 1314 E Dorothy Ln (at the intersection of Dorothy and Wilmington Pk)

Marion's

Marion's is a Dayton staple. Their pizzas are like no other (crumbles of sausages sprinkled all over is one of their signature toppings), the building and atmosphere has hardly changed at all over the past several decades, and the locations have gaming room or halls for the kids. I recommend the deluxe pizza, which comes with all the signature toppings - pepperoni, onion, sausage, oh so good!

Location: Multiple (in Centerville, Beavercreek, Oakwood)

Voltzy's Root Beer Stand

Voltzy's is truly an experience. The owner, Rick Volz, attracts people to his establishment not only with his unique fare (he claims his burgers are the best in the area), but also his eccentric humor. Don't plan on being a wallflower if you go here - no one is safe from the jokes of Rick. He insults his customers with funny comments and his jokes come like rapid fire - but all with friendliness that has kept his customers coming back for almost 20 years (he started off in a 12' trailer in the same parking lot)

Try his Slammer, Voltzy, Hog, or Chicken Philly. Nothing I've had there has been bad. Leave the calorie counter at home though; this is greasy goodness at its finest.

If you feel brave, he also has a 6 1/2 lb hamburger you have to place an order for the day before.

Location: Going down Springboro Pike to the Moraine Truck Plank, look for a small shack in the middle of a parking lot right after passing a Waffle House and Medical Center (no joke)

The Italian Oven

Just a little on this place. Small, locally owned restaurant. The owner is really sweet, will make sure you are satisfied with your visit.

My main recommendation of this place is for their lasagna. It's just really good - all made from scratch, and with a taste that is both familiar and really unique. Also had a white pizza, which wasn't bad - but the lasagna was the deal maker.
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Location: 4654 Wilmington Pike

Christopher's

A quaint little restaurant nestled in a small strip mall area. Go inside, and you'll find yourself surrounding in a one-of-a-kind atmosphere. Everything tastes fresh, and good. Hummus is excellent, so is the fish that I've tried. Wonderful selection of hamburgers. But my personal favorite thing is the breakfast - get out there early and have an omelet. Perfectly fluffy, with many different options of fillings - it makes my mouth water just thinking about it.

Many unique food creations you won't find anywhere else.

Location: 2318 E Dorothy Ln

I could go on forever, but these are the ones I wanted to mention specifically.

However, I'd like to list out several others that I recommend but am not able to include a full description of just yet. You're on the internet if you're reading this, so...do some research!

Other recommendations: Meadowlarks, One Eyed Jacks, Maid Rite Burgers, Thai 9, Pacchia's, Siam Pad Thai, Norton's, Bill's Donut, Elsa's, El Toro, Harrigan's, The Dock