Toledo’s dining scene really thrives with two under-the-radar spots like Kato Ramen, where steaming bowls of house-crafted noodles meet punchy broths in a lively, communal setting, AND… The Standard Restaurant, blending bold flavors like dry-aged steaks and inventive small plates in a sleek, chic, energetic space.
Both redefine expectations. Trust us.
The Standard Restaurant
Toledo’s The Standard Restaurant isn’t just a meal—it’s a full-sensory experience.
Locally owned and bursting with flavor, this spot has quickly become the city’s go-to for inventive dishes and next-level service.
From melt-in-your-mouth meats to cocktails that pack a punch, every detail here screams “this is how dining should be.” 🍴
Food Highlights
- Braised Short Rib: Fall-off-the-bone tender with creamy polenta and crispy onions—a dish reviewers call “love at first bite”.
- Miso Seabass: Buttery fish glazed with miso and ginger, paired with garlicky spinach and mashed potatoes—a showstopper that’s “the best ever” according to regulars.
- Pan-Fried Feta: A salty-sweet flavor bomb with fermented hot honey and everything-spice ciabatta—perfect for sharing (but you won’t want to).
- Garlic Bread: Made with locally baked “all crumbs” bread, this isn’t your average appetizer. Diners rave it’s “the most decadent garlic bread of your life” 🧄.
- Sticky Toffee Pudding: A gooey, caramelized dessert that’s “worth every calorie”.
Atmosphere
The vibe is electric—think packed tables, a buzzing bar, and servers who treat you like VIPs.
The dining room hums with energy (though it gets loud on weekends), while the bar area draws crowds for craft cocktails and bourbon expertise.
Pro tip: Book ahead—this place fills up faster than a Toledo snowstorm ❄️.
Bottom Line
Visit for elevated comfort food, polished service, and a night out that feels like a celebration.
Whether you’re splitting the legendary wedge salad or savoring the $51 sea bass, The Standard sets the bar high.
Address: 5333 Monroe St Ste 22/23, Toledo, OH 43623
Kato Ramen
Toledo’s lunchtime crowds flock to Kato Ramen like noodles to broth – this tiny downtown hotspot serves life-changing bowls in record time.
With just 14 seats and limited hours (11 AM-2:30 PM daily), it’s a “slurp loud, eat fast” kind of joint where chefs shout Japanese greetings as you enter.
The secret? Chef Kengo Kato’s obsession with perfect broths and springy housemade noodles that’ll make you rethink Midwestern dining. 🍜
Food Highlights
- Tonkotsu Ramen: Creamy pork broth hugs silky noodles topped with melt-in-your-mouth pork belly and garlic chips – the gold standard that regulars drive 22+ miles for.
- Spicy Miso Ramen: A chili-lover’s dream with ground chicken, corn, and customizable “spice bombs” (ghost pepper oil optional, courage required 🌶️).
- Vegan Ramen: Cashew-based broth dazzles with garlic chips and pickled ginger – even carnivores steal bites of this dairy-free masterpiece.
- Pork Bao Buns: Pillowy steamed buns cradle soy-glazed pork belly or crispy shrimp tempura – the perfect crunchy-creamy sidekick.
- Seaweed Salad: Three types of seaweed dance in sesame dressing – Michael T. from Chicago calls it “the best I’ve eaten outside Japan.”
Atmosphere
The vibe is intimate chaos – 10 bar stools and a few tables packed with locals slurping in unison.
Servers refill green tea before you ask, while the open kitchen clatters with noodle pots and sizzling pork.
Don’t be startled by the thunderous “irasshaimase!” greeting – it’s all part of the 🔥 energy.
Bottom Line
Come for ramen that outshines big-city competitors, stay for the warmth of a neighborhood gem where every bowl feels like a hug from Grandma (if Grandma was a Tokyo-trained ramen wizard).
Just arrive early – the line starts forming at 10:45 AM!
Address: 40 S St Clair St, Toledo, OH 43604