Address: 1815 Adams St, Toledo, OH, 43604

Phone: +1 419 725 5483

Price Range: $$$$

Website: http://theottawatavern.com

The Ottawa Tavern

The Ottawa Tavern in Toledo stands as a beloved cornerstone of the city’s alternative music scene. Established originally in 1932, this venue now offers a retro yet lively atmosphere that brings together live music, a well-rounded bar, and a kickass food menu. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, this place serves as a pivotal spot for experiencing Toledo's rich cultural tapestry.

When I stopped by, the vibe was electric—live music filled the air, and folks were generally having a blast. The bartenders managed the crowd phenomenally, even during rush hours, serving up tasty drinks without breaking a sweat. The space itself has some wear and tear, with the barstools showing their age, but that just adds to its gritty charm.

Now, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty: the food! The Tavern has a string of dishes that you'd expect from a solid pub kitchen, but what sets them apart is the sheer deliciousness packed in every bite. Start with the 'God Only Knows Burger'. This is not just any burger—it's piled high with seasoned ground beef, toppings like bacon and a zesty house-made tomato bacon jam, all on a golden brown bagel. This is a must-try!

Their lineup of burgers doesn’t stop there. The 'Black & Blue Burger' is another standout, featuring a blackened beef patty, crisp bacon, pungent blue cheese, and fresh veggies. Perfectly cooked and bursting with flavor. Feeling adventurous? The 'Mac & Cheese Burger' takes indulgence to another level with creamy mac and cheese layered right on the beef patty.

Diversity in the menu is evident with options like 'The Porker'—a hefty burger featuring a quarter pound of bacon and house-made tomato bacon jam—or if you prefer your burger with a spicy kick, the 'Sweet Heat Burger' comes loaded with pepper jack cheese, caramelized onions, and a house pineapple bourbon sauce that melds sweet and spicy effortlessly.

For those who aren't in a burger mood, the Chicken Nacho Chunks are a fantastic pick. These are fresh tortilla chips generously topped with melted cheese, chicken chunks, jalapeños, and all the fixings. They’re perfect for sharing or inhaling solo!

Vegetarian or vegan? No stress. The 'Beyond Burger' fits the bill with a plant-based patty and vegan cheese options, served on a vegan bun. It's refreshing to see such inclusive choices on a pub menu, making sure there's something for everyone.

Grab some hand-battered onion rings or sweet potato fries on the side, especially if you’re looking for some extra crunch. The onion rings paired with their house-made dipping sauce are divine. Also, their curly fries and tater tots are not to be underestimated.

As for the overall experience, The Ottawa Tavern does an admirable job blending food, drinks, and entertainment. It's clear they care about fostering a tight-knit community around music and good times. However, note that the best time to visit is during live music nights for the complete OT experience. Just a tip, earplugs might be handy if you’re sensitive to loud sounds.

Reservations are not a thing here, so arriving early is your best bet to grab a good spot. With accessible parking nearby and the venue being wheelchair friendly, it's an inclusive space where everyone can have a great time. Don’t forget to check their social media or website for special events or performances—they’ve continued to support local artists brilliantly.