Watts Restaurant is a mainstay in the Utica community. (Credit: Watts Restaurant)

By Ken Drenten

To say that Watts Restaurant is a mainstay in the Utica, Ohio, community is an understatement. The family-style restaurant has been in business in Utica since 1912, serving its customers homestyle meals, baked goods and desserts.

The restaurant is the sixth-oldest restaurant in the state of Ohio, according to its menu. And its menu may be also one of the largest.

Watts’ extensive menu includes a huge variety of entrees of chicken, beef, ham, seafood, pasta and much more. In addition to their regular menu there’s a lengthy list of daily specials, such as cabbage rolls, stuffed peppers, barbeque ribs, Swiss steak and roast turkey and dressing. Added to this is an enormous variety of fruit and cream pies, cakes, rolls and other baked goods.

The restaurant also serves burgers, sandwiches, salads, appetizers and more.

The ambience of Watts is like being at Grandma’s house, with cozy, warm, old-fashioned décor that matches the delicious smells from the restaurant’s kitchen. Dining areas are spread out over five separate rooms, so it never seems like you’re in a huge restaurant eating among strangers.

The waitstaff and service is consistently excellent. Many of its employees are second and third-generation family members who have worked at Watts for many years.

Indeed, strangers are few and far between at Watts, even if you’re a newcomer. Regular customers abound here, and its comfortable, casual atmosphere makes you want to slow down, visit awhile and enjoy the experience.

Watts Restaurant is located at 77 S. Main St., Utica (740) 892-3017.  Hours are 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday, closed Monday, 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday; 8 a.m.-7 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

Read more about diners and restaurants in Ohio at Dusty Tires.

Ken Drenten is creator and editor of Dusty-Tires.com, a travel blog for out-of-the-ordinary places in Ohio.

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