If you’re looking for the cool, cozy, quietly elevated side of Dayton, this is my go-to list. These are the places I actually recommend when friends ask where to go for a good drink, a really solid dinner, or a slow coffee date. Think candle-lit cock...
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Unique/fun bars
Resteraunts that are sure to impress
The coziest coffee shops
Brunch spots that never miss
Unique/fun bars
Non-dive, vibey only bars to impress your friends
Located in the lower level beneath Sueno in downtown Dayton, this bar is dark-and-moody in the best way, with candlelit tables, a sleek lounge vibe, and craft cocktails that feel special.  If you’re looking for a place to start the evening with som...
Tender Mercy
A very cozy, intimate wine bar tucked in a historic carriage house (1105 Wayne Ave.). They emphasize natural wines, oysters and small plates, and an artsy yet relaxed environment
The Silver Slipper
While I’m not the biggest bourbon/whiskey person, if you are you’d love this one. The vibe is so moody and aesthetic, and they do have a full bar so I can always get something I like there
The Century Bar
For a slightly different pace, a wine-bar setting where you can linger over glasses, maybe before or after dinner. And it’s so so cute
Joui Wine
Another cozy craft cocktail bar that I love. They make their own liquors, including a SPICY vodka that I looove.
Van Buren Room
This one is playful and inventive — the entrance is through a side door labeled “Trash Only,” and inside you’ll find cocktails with components like roasted bell pepper syrups and clarified drinks.  Great for something a little more adventurous or i...
Dayton's newest speakeasy, cocktail bar can be entered through a door that says ' ...
Resteraunts that are sure to impress
My favorite places to go on dates, have girl dinners at, and get great food with a great vibe
A forever favorite. They make their own bread and pasta and it’s seriously incredible, every single thing I’ve tried
Grist
I can’t lie it’s a little bit pricy, but soo worth it. Every dish I’ve tried has been amazing, and the margaritas are top notch. And strong 😮💨
Sueño
A great pick if you’re in the mood for high-end Japanese or sushi. Elevated atmosphere, and they are located inside Tender Mercy! Sister businesses with them and Sueno
Dozo
Warm and inviting, Lilly’s has that bistro charm. Perfect for a date night or relaxing special meal.
Lily's Dayton
Pasta is incredible, pizza in incredible, they have seasonal cocktails and offerings that are always super inventive and yummy. I often doordash their eggplant fries. To die for.
Wheat Penny Oven and Bar
Always a great choice
Coco's Bistro
The coziest coffee shops
Dayton has a lot of hidden gem coffee shops and places to cuddle up with a nice book 🙏🏻
The pastries and goods here literally sell out, that's how good they are. Make sure to get there early!
Val's Bakery
Their daytime persona is coffee shop, and evening the same space transforms into the Good Impressions speakeasy!
Midday Café
If you’re going for something a little more industrial-cool in vibe (great if you want a quick stop before brunch or lunch), this would fit. They have a few locations
Warehouse 4 Coffee
Small but always delivers a good cup'a joe
Press Coffee Bar
I buy my bag of beans from here, their roasts are always good
Wholly Grounds
A cat cafe!!! Need I say more?
Gem City Catfe
Brunch spots that never miss
Arguably the most important meal of the day
10/10 no notes. Great food, great cocktails, great atmosphere
Toasted Brunch Bar + Café
Everything here that I've had has been so good, and a great portion size!
The Brunch Club Dayton
I’ve literally never had anything bad here. Biscuits and baked goods made from scratch, lots of fun tea options, and good vibes. It’s hard not to go here for every brunch
Salt Block Biscuit Company | Dayton OH
Favorite brunch pick for when you want something a little elevated, but still relaxed. Good cocktails, and even better food.