CHILLICOTHE, Ohio — A downtown Chillicothe restaurant is earning enthusiastic reviews from diners who say its combination of smoked meats, friendly service and historic atmosphere makes it a standout local destination.
Old Canal Smoke House, located inside a renovated 1850s-era forge, specializes in slow-smoked barbecue while offering diners a setting that reflects the history of downtown Chillicothe.
The restaurant’s menu features hickory-smoked meats including pulled pork, brisket, baby back ribs and St. Louis-style ribs. Burgers, sandwiches and smoked Atlantic salmon are also among the offerings, along with a smoked prime rib available on select evenings.
Recent customer reviews highlight more than just the barbecue. One of our writers praised the Bison Burger as well as the Mac & Cheese!
One diner praised a burger that was “cooked perfectly” while describing the Reuben as amazing. The reviewer also complimented the staff, cleanliness of the restaurant and relatively short wait despite the restaurant being busy, awarding five stars for both food and service.
Another five-star reviewer singled out several of the restaurant’s barbecue staples, describing the brisket as exceptionally tender and the ribs as falling off the bone. The restaurant’s coconut onion rings, mushrooms and homemade peanut butter pie also received high marks.
That reviewer additionally praised the service, describing their server as friendly, attentive and welcoming while saying the overall atmosphere made the group feel at home.
The restaurant’s setting appears to be another major part of its appeal. A separate reviewer praised the cleanliness, service and relaxed atmosphere while noting the multiple seating areas, outdoor dining and extensive selection of draft beer. The customer also highlighted the building’s history and called the restaurant a strong representation of historic downtown Chillicothe.
Old Canal Smoke House combines that historic setting with a casual, brick-lined interior and multiple dining spaces, while its menu centers heavily around traditional smoked barbecue.
For visitors and residents looking for a downtown dining option, customer reviews suggest the restaurant has built a reputation around three things that can be difficult to combine: quality food, attentive service and a setting uniquely connected to Chillicothe’s past.
