We’re dead serious, this place is cool. Like, really cool. Of course the College of Wooster resides here, a lovely place it seems to get an education, but that’s far from the coolest thing in this burgeoning little town. Although it should be known that the students do inject a nice bit of positive, youthful energy into an already spirited city.
So first things first, that vibe. Almost european in feel, you immediately get the sense that something unique is happening in Wooster. A look of pride and concerted effort is evident on everyone’s face, as if they’re stoked to see what they’ve created here.
Places like Lucky Records, an invariably cool local vinyl shop that sells new and used EP’s in addition to servicing and maintaining record players, is the kind of place you’d only expect to see in a large metropolis, not a small town the edge of Amish country. It’s also the perfect compliment to the local music scene here — Jazz festivals and music events happen all the time, highlighting the diversity in arts that Wooster brings to the table.
Secondly, the food. Oh my goodness the food. It’s almost tough to explain because the options here are nearly endless, but we can certainly try.
Starting with Local Roots is probably a good idea, as it kind of sets the tone for the culinary scene here in Wooster. This co-op/community
center focuses on organic groceries and locally sourced fare, all while acting as a cornerstone within the community.
Then there’s places like Spoon Market where the menu comes on butcher paper, the deli sandwiches are mouth-watering and the smoothies are perfect for a midday uplift. Louie’s Local Meats resides in the rear of Spoon, where Adam Nussbaum, the prodigal meat vendor specializes in slicing up meat the old-school way. Starting with carcass meat and breaking it down himself leads to some unbelievable gourmet sausages and super fresh hamburger.
Since meat is on the mind, let’s head across the street to City Square Steakhouse. Heavenly steaks and ultra-fresh burgers are the specialty here and labeling them as a ‘specialty’ is putting it lightly. Most of their beef is sourced locally through Certified Angus Beef, whose headquarters are not far down the road. Try an Ohio-sourced center-cut ribeye steak from these guys and you may just ruin your local steak joint back home. City Square also makes it a point to offer several Ohio-made beers on tap.
JAFB Brewery, which stands for Just Another F****** Brewery (one of the best brewery names ever created), is also just down the street and has continued to take home medals for their craft from the Great American Beer Fest in Denver, Colorado. Mean Bean Bourbon Stout or their prized Rain Delay IPA? It really doesn’t matter, these guys make incredible beer.
Back to the topic of Wooster having establishments that usually only appear in a sprawling metropolis, there’s Mott’s Oils and More. The containers of infused olive oils and balsamic vinegars seem to go on for days in this unique place and akin to the amount of oils they offer is the sheer knowledge of the staff. So if you’re looking to put a healthy spin on your favorite dish at home, look no further.
And lastly, Wooster sits on the edge of Amish country in Wayne County and needless to say this presents a lot of other very fun opportunities.
Let’s see, if you’re into rare and gourmet cheeses then Shisler’s Cheese House is an absolute must. See if you can find Rita for a conversation, she’s a character and just extremely fun to talk with. Just down the road is the very small town, or rather intersection of Kidron, Ohio, where Quince Cafe & Bakery and Lehman’s reside.
Quince will serve you some of the best, locally-made desserts you’ve ever tasted while Lehman’s will show you how to make your own — The place is almost 3/4 mile long and has every old-style item one could ever imagine. Put it this way, if the power ever goes out you’ll wish you would’ve bought more at Lehman’s.
Not sure where to stay? The St. Paul Hotel in downtown Wooster is a revelation. Heated bathroom floors and spacious showers will have you singing before starting your day. Contemporary and comfortable, this spectacular boutique hotel is worth every penny.
While it would most certainly take a lot more pages of to cover everything that makes Wooster, Ohio cool, I think we covered some of the great parts. Of course if you want to find out more, go explore for yourself. You won’t be disappointed!
Have something to add about Wooster, please share below or on Twitter @ItsAlwaysOhio.
November 22, 2015 at 1:28 pm
You missed a few killer places like Oak Grove Eatery for some amazing brunch and dinner (right next to spoon) and Faithful Little Cupcake (next to Motts) for some of the best cupcakes you’ve ever had! We love Wooster and it’s uniqueness and charm! There is always something to do and it’s an incredibly family friendly town!
LikeLike
November 22, 2015 at 6:06 pm
Oak Grove and Faithful Little Cupcake are fantastic, you’re right on there!
LikeLike
November 22, 2015 at 1:29 pm
Nice article but man you missed a lot. Coccia House pizza is on the best in Ohio list and by far the best in this area. And if in Wooster you must try Broken Rocks Cafe and Bakery,-and their next door sister pub Rox. Excellent food and drink. The north end has my favorite Mexican restaurant, El Tapatio, also on the best in Ohio list. For home decor and a unique shopping experience there’s Pine Tree Barn just a few miles south of Wooster.
LikeLike
November 22, 2015 at 6:05 pm
Thanks for the suggestions Amy and you’re totally right, I need to write another post — There’s so much going on down there that I didn’t want to have a post that resembled a novel :). I’ve been to Coccia and Broken Rocks, but not El Tapatio and Pine Tree Barn. I have more to see!
LikeLike
November 22, 2015 at 2:18 pm
Thanks for this wonderful article about my hometown! There is also the amazing Wooster Natural Foods at 138 E Liberty St, formerly called the Wooster Food Co-op. Established in 1971 as a food co-op and draft counseling center, during the Vietnam War. Still a co-op and going very strong! A great complement to Local Roots!
LikeLike
November 22, 2015 at 6:03 pm
Awesome Susan, I knew about Wooster Food Co-op but haven’t been yet. I’ll be sure to check it out!
LikeLike
November 22, 2015 at 2:36 pm
Everything about this is article is true, but you forgot that just over 30 there’s Ohio state ATI. which was there If I’m not mistaken before COW?….for agriculture….which is the basis of this entire article …. Don’t forget about us!
LikeLike
November 22, 2015 at 6:02 pm
Anna, I did not know that! Thanks so much for the heads up, Wooster has so much to offer it’s crazy!
LikeLike
November 22, 2015 at 5:42 pm
It may not be cool or new or hip, but Coccia House pizza is the best!
LikeLike
November 22, 2015 at 5:59 pm
You’re so right Debbie, Coccia House is the best…looks like I’ll need to write another post!
LikeLike
November 22, 2015 at 6:03 pm
Wooster is a wonderful place! Wouldn’t want to be anywhere else…absolutely…and all the shops here, in Wooster, are quaint and reasonable…but my favorite spot for food… is just a little place, that sits on the footsteps of Winkler Drive as you enter town from the north side, on Rte. 3…you know what I am talking about…that’s right…you can “slide” right in into a seat…especially between 2:00 and 5:00….
LikeLike
November 22, 2015 at 6:34 pm
Templeton’s Scottish Bakery and Coffee House is a brand new spot in Wooster. Some of the best coffee and baked goods I’ve ever had! And the owners are both from Scottland, so everything is authentic!
LikeLike
November 23, 2015 at 3:37 pm
That’s awesome Audrey, I’m stoked to check that place out!
LikeLike
November 22, 2015 at 6:36 pm
Templeton’s Scottish Bakery and Coffee house has some of the best baked goods I’ve ever tasted, and the coffee is to die for too! It’s brand new in Wooster so you should check it out!!
LikeLike
November 22, 2015 at 6:41 pm
I have lived in Wooster all my life and have only visited one of your selections, it’s not that they don’t interest me, l remember some cool and tasty places in the past. Shanks Stake House, The Pines, Danners Tavern, Martins Restaurant , Starks Restaurant, The Brunswick Bar just to name a few. Guess what!!!! These cool and tasty places are just fun memories.
LikeLike
November 23, 2015 at 3:39 pm
Wish we could bring them back Phil — Great to see a ton of new places sprouting up though. Wooster is certainly full of excellent spots.
LikeLike
November 22, 2015 at 10:47 pm
What about Learch’s donuts too?
LikeLike
November 23, 2015 at 3:40 pm
I haven’t been to Learch’s’ yet…I need a tour guide!
LikeLike
November 22, 2015 at 11:01 pm
We have enjoyed many of these places on the list and can’t agree more. Would have included Broken Rocks. Love that our son chose Wooster!
LikeLike
November 23, 2015 at 3:41 pm
Thank you! So great to hear your son is attending Wooster, he certainly won’t be bored!
LikeLike
November 22, 2015 at 11:59 pm
College of Wooster was founded in 1866. The earliest date I can find for OSU Agricultural Extension was 1881. Both have been around a long time, but COW was first by about 15 years.
With that said… Wooster is a GREAT little town with lots to offer many people.
LikeLike
November 23, 2015 at 12:51 am
For subs, go to Hero House. For a Dagwood burger mint brownie with ice cream, go to C.W. Burgersteins.
LikeLike
November 23, 2015 at 3:41 pm
My goodness that sounds tasty, I can’t wait to check it out when I head back in December. Thanks for the heads up!
LikeLike
November 23, 2015 at 3:38 am
Neat article! We live in a rural area just south of the OSU/ATI and OARDC area. If you want good pub-style food — and excellent prime rib — try the Old Jaol downtown, near the original Buehler’s. And although I have never eaten there, Matso’s is famous for both Greek food and pizza. Just a short walk from there, on the square, is the Tulipán Hungarian Pastry and Coffee Shop — European style baking…very, very good.
LikeLike
November 23, 2015 at 3:44 pm
Thanks so much Jerry! I’ve been to Tulipan and wow, that place is fantastic. Sounds like I’ll have to check Old Jaol and Masto’s’ though. It’s’ unbelievable how much is going on down there!
LikeLike
November 23, 2015 at 5:11 am
I have recently discovered Bay Lobster on Cleveland road. Nothing fancy but for a Southern girl whose family trapped crawfish ( Florida lobster) and went shrimping and fishing as time allowed, their seafood rocks! Definitely try their wild coconut shrimp!
LikeLike
November 23, 2015 at 5:22 am
Montavinos is a must! Loerch donuts, the new Scottish coffee place. OAR DC and ATI are part of the Ohio State University, which gives this town a huge cultural variety.
LikeLike
November 23, 2015 at 6:13 pm
Thanks for the suggestions Maria, I haven’t heard anyone mention Montavino’s yet. Can’t wait to give it a try!
LikeLike
November 23, 2015 at 4:00 pm
Cheesesteaks at the Hero House are a staple of downtown cuisine!
LikeLike
November 23, 2015 at 6:07 pm
Nice Nick, I’ve heard that from a few people. Will definitely head there next time!
LikeLike
November 23, 2015 at 4:56 pm
Rox Gastropub is a great place for a cocktail!
LikeLike
November 23, 2015 at 6:08 pm
Had a chance to walk around in there last time I was at Broken Rocks, looks amazing!
LikeLike
November 23, 2015 at 5:11 pm
You forgot to mention the Ohio Light Opera in June and July. Excellent renditions of operettas, Broadway shows plus opera on the College of Wooster campus.
LikeLike
November 23, 2015 at 6:09 pm
Ruth, I’ll definitely have to include them in my next Wooster post. Had the chance to check out a show there this past summer – It was excellent!
LikeLike
November 23, 2015 at 7:01 pm
Best pizza is at Leroy’s. No question especially when Kevin’s cooking.
LikeLike
November 24, 2015 at 1:32 am
The First Amendment Public House. The first place i visted after my first day of my new job a year ago. Top notch food, friends, and fun, and pure Ohio!
LikeLike
November 24, 2015 at 7:53 pm
Fully agreed Joe, the First Amendment Public House is a really sweet place. Love the vibe in there!
LikeLike
November 24, 2015 at 3:44 pm
Bring the family to Freedlander Park, in the warmer months one can swim, fish and play Disc Golf @ the Miles specht Memorial Disc Golf course. Disc Golf is free to play, all you need is a disc. 18 challenging holes await you. in the colder months Disc Golf is still free. (Map of the course and scorecard is available to download @ http://www.dgcoursereview.com/course.php?id=1291 under links/ files)
LikeLike
November 24, 2015 at 7:54 pm
Thanks Danny! I had no clue about Freedlander Park, but I will definitely head there now — I’m a big ultimate frisbee guy and have always wanted to start playing disc golf too.
LikeLike
November 25, 2015 at 6:38 am
I attended the College of Wooster in the 1980s. My daughter goes there now. In between I have stopped in the City often. Love the steak at both City Square and the Old Jaole. Great menu at Broken Rocks. Muddy Waters is in a new venue and has great burgers, as does CW Burgersteins (a part of TJs). I love the Chili at Leroys. Also on the list to visit would be Coccia House, Matsos (Greek), First Amendment, and Spoon. Outdoor eating in the summer-The patio of the Wooster Inn. In the winter, The Pine Tree Barn (south on Rt3 to Rt 226) is fantastic for a country flair, including soups and dessert. Check out the furniture for sale while you are there, as well as the many Christmas decorations. North of Wooster is The Barn on SR 585 for chicken. A final note-the St Paul Hotel is expanding.
LikeLike
November 25, 2015 at 10:06 am
I was just skimming, but was Muddys mentioned? They’ve been around for a few years and just moved to yet a bigger location downtown.
LikeLike
December 5, 2015 at 11:32 pm
Best Pizza in the USA !! Thanks Coccia House:)
LikeLike
December 5, 2015 at 11:35 pm
Coccia House has the best pizza!! I love coming back for a visit to see all the growth.
LikeLike
December 31, 2015 at 4:03 pm
The Ugly Duck has delicious food!
LikeLike
January 5, 2016 at 5:25 pm
I haven’t been yet, but I’ll make sure to go now. Thanks for the recommendation Kristy!
LikeLike
November 24, 2017 at 1:33 pm
I’m so glad our son and his family live there. No wonder my daughter-in-law has always loved it there.
LikeLike