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Eat & Drink

The food is often the best part of the trip, right? While Erie may not be known for flashy restaurants or celebrity chefs, its dining scene quietly overdelivers. Passionate chefs and restaurateurs are creating unforgettable dining experiences, from elevated classics to unexpected culinary finds. The result? Meals you'll be talking about long after your trip ends.

Restaurants

Erie’s food scene will surprise you. Discover chef-inspired dining and award-winning plates along with local “dinor” culture and waterfront dives, all in one eclectic food scene.

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Breweries & Distilleries

During Prohibition, Erie played a daring role as Rum Runners smuggled whiskey from Canada across Lake Erie under the cover of darkness. Today, that bold spirit lives on in Erie’s craft beverage scene, where small-batch distilleries and local breweries infuse creativity, passion, and community into every pour.

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Wineries

Home to the largest grape-growing region in the Great Lakes, Erie’s wine country pairs generations of agricultural expertise with wines as bold as the growers themselves.

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Coffee & Sweet Treats

From cozy neighborhood cafes, to local roasteries brewing up Erie’s best coffee, Erie’s coffee shops and bakeries offer a welcoming space to experience Erie’s creative spirit.

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Waterfront Dining

Lake meets plate along Erie’s waterfront, where fresh flavors are served with a side of waterfront views.

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Markets & Grocery

Looking for something fresh? Discover local growers and products at markets across Erie County.

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A Food Lover's Guide to Downtown Erie

For food lovers, Downtown Erie is a must-visit. If it’s been awhile since your last trip downtown, it’s time to revisit: the region is experiencing a renaissance, and more than 10 new restaurants have opened their doors in the region in the last five years, introducing new flavors and fresh energy to the district. Whether you’re looking for the best patios, a new happy hour spot, or a meal with a side of mini golf, Downtown Erie’s food scene has you covered.

What are the best restaurants in Erie?

Erie County is home to a wide variety of award-winning restaurants. In the resident-voted Best of Erie 2025 awards, Bar Ronin was named Best Restaurant Overall for its Japanese-American fusion cuisine, Samurai Kitchen won Best Sushi, Oliver's Rooftop earned Best Fine Dining, Calamari's Squid Row was recognized for Best Wait Staff, and Federal Hill Smokehouse took top honors for Best Barbecue.

Where can I order Lake Erie perch?

Bayfront dining spots are often the best place to look, as many highlight fresh-caught Lake Erie fish. Restaurants such as Smugglers' Wharf, Two45 Waterfront Grille, the Sloppy Duck Saloon and other waterfront establishments have become known for serving perch.

Are there any vegetarian or vegan-friendly restaurants in Erie?

Yes. Erie offers a variety of vegetarian-friendly dining options, from casual cafés and breweries to fine dining restaurants. Many local eateries, such as The Juice Jar, Lavery Brewing and Like My Thai, feature vegetarian entrées, salads, grain bowls, pasta dishes, and plant-based alternatives.