I grew up in Cuyahoga Falls, so have some seriously nostalgic memories of going on a family bike ride in the park, and having lunch at the Winking Lizard. So for the vibes, the memories and the nostalgia (and beer selection) the Winking Lizard gets 5 stars. I mean who doesn't love free popcorn while you wait for your table. Now as an adult, with a more critical eye, I have to give them 4 stars, as my official Yelp review. Still had a great time-- it had probably been 5 (or more) years since I've been to the Winking Lizard, after just having gone two weeks ago. And the beer selection really is impressive! And the service was great! But the burger left a little to be desired. It wasn't bad, don't get me wrong, but I kind of wish I would have gotten the wings, or maybe there is something else in the menu that I'm missing. It's a big menu! I'll of course be back, and don't get me wrong, I'll get a burger again if I'm craving it. But I have to keep my expectations realistic. I'm just not sure the Winking Lizard is the kind of place that will ever serve me a 5 star burger. But again, last time (haha), the VIBES are absolutely 5 stars. Love yall over there-- and see ya the next I'm back in the falls. read more

Winking Lizard - Hanson Burger - American Near Me - Peninsula, Ohio

After hiking through cuyahoga valley national park my friend and I decided to eat at the winking lizard after parking and seeing their outdoor area. With several tables open we were excited to enjoy the nice weather. After inquiring with the hostess we were told we could only eat inside since they were limited on staff. The waitress we had was great and attentive. I decided on the buffalo chicken wrap with honey mustard as the replacement to the buffalo sauce. I also ordered a salad instead of fries. Salad portion size was good and the wrap was small. The sauce also didn't have a very bold flavor. read more

We were passing through so we decided to give this restaurant a try. We couldn't find on site parking to begin with and then we had to wait for 10-15 min to get a table. After we sat, our waitress wasn't too knowledgeable about the food and drinks on the menu so that wasn't much of help. The hostess told us there's no happy hour but the menu clearly indicated there's happy hour until 7pm. We ordered our food and drinks and we waited for at least an hour to get our food. I ordered a golden margarita but it tasted like plain slushies. I ordered a different drink instead. We ordered 5 different flavors of wings and were not impressed with any of those flavors. The texture of boneless chicken was rather hard instead of crunchy. We were pretty disappointed about our first visit. read more

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After a morning of hiking, this was a wonderful lunch spot! Super busy and had to wait about 45 minutes but our service was wonderful! Great quick bites and fuel for the rest of our day! Plus the free popcorn is a massive pro! read more

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Okay, I'm sure people will disagree. However, I cannot express how often we've had great food, great service and great times at the Winking Lizard. There is an occasional off night I'm sure. Crowded, or staff called off, I get it. 9/10 times this place is a home run. The wings, nuff said. But, their burgers are great (and big) the ribs fall off the bone good, the pizza is better than a lot of the "chain" pizza places. He'll, even their steaks are good. (Not big, but seasoned just right. They move patrons in and out, the place is still very chill. Always have some games on, and the popcorn machine is a nice touch. read more

We stopped in for drinks while hiking at Cuyahoga National Park. We found the service and food excellent and menu prices reasonable. We enjoyed it so much, we stopped in later that day for dinner. I loved the outdoor seating! read more

I have to admit, every Winking Lizard location I've been to, I love. Really! This is my 3rd one and the food is consistently good, as is the beer of course. The service is consistently "sturdy" as the English say. The food menu a a great pub offering of the usual fare of nachos, burgers, pizzas, wraps, wings etc. The difference is, these people are 100% consistent across all locations. That's rare to achieve. That shows good food cost control and quality control across the corporate level. It has a truly fun atmosphere and super friendly staff. I love the branding and even have a "Winking Lizard" mug that I've carried with me through St. Louis, Missouri, Chicago, IL, Cleveland, and now back to St. Louis. I shall miss coming here regularly. Every location is really exceptional. THIS is the place to keep on your "go to" list when you're not sure where you want to go, but do want consistently good pub food with friendly service. STURDY ALL THE WAY! read more

The food is either very good or typical bar food. You go there for the beers. They have so many fine beers. Even some of my Belgian favorites! read more

Some of the new waiters are completely inappropriate with touching customers as they order food at their table. The other waiter laughs loudly after everything he says everything he comes out of his mouth he laughs loudly at echoes throughout the restaurant. No one obviously cares or does anything about this. I'll sit at the bar from now on. If I go. read more

Stopped in with my family on the way to Meadville--great experience. No delays for seating, food came out fast, tasted good and the atmosphere was perfect for the small town vibe. Staff were friendly and efficient. Ice cream place nearby, same with a national forest that's free to enter, would totally recommend to anyone passing through! read more

Great atmosphere! Great wings! Great beer! Enjoy the sports! Homemade Italian and Ranch are the bomb. Make sure you go on Monday nights. Can't beat the .90 wings. read more

Service, food and atmosphere was horrible. The waitress had a grumpy face. Asked for drink refills and still didn't have them before we left. Waited 40 minutes to be seated read more

Always have a great time at winking lizard, we stopped in and I tried their September gyro special and it was packed with meat. My husband loved their buffalo chicken salad. We made it in time for happy hour which was a nice bonus off our drinks. read more

Yummy food! The best cheese and potato pierogies I've ever had! Our server,Victoria, was attentive and informative. Love her! Fun ambiance with a cellar and full bar. This is a definite go to place if you're ever in Peninsula, Ohio. We went after a long hike at the National Park and it was a perfect ending to a perfect day. read more

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Food is average. Service is slow. Very loud and place need to be cleaned. Remember days of glory but now is just the place

Wonderful service in a neat area. I had the Smash Burger which reminded me of the Roman Burger at Mr. Hero and it was delicious. TV scrreens all over to watch the games. Highly recommended. read more

Winking Lizard - Smash Burger with steak fries. Very filling! - American Near Me - Peninsula, Ohio

Hands down one of the greatest bars / restaurants in NE Ohio. They've got it all... brews, burgers, lizard lips, wangs, and of course, a freaking adorable mascot - the all mighty beasty lizard of the north-easty. Not to mention, centrally located in one of the greatest parks in Ohio - CVNP, right of the towpath, The Wink is a must! What's better than beers & bears? Whenever I feel the desire to pause from fancy fine wining and dining, I typically crawl out of my cave, and mosey on over to the Winking Lizard. The vibes in the restaurant are immaculate - with various areas to be seated, random artwork, and TVs for days to catch the big games. There's also a popcorn machine in the lobby, so you can munch on buttery delicious popped-corns as you wait. The food always hits. I've never been disappointed with my order. They have a wide array of options on the menu, including an extensive beer and liquor menu, which changes each month according to the theme of the month! And, It's especially fun to come during their special nights, like Monday / Tuesday nights for a sale on wings and pizza. I am outrageously particular about my pizza pie, and The Winking Lizard did not disappoint, but rather I left wanting more... I should have ordered one to-go. My mouth is watering just writing about it. Gooey cheese, crisp toppings... chefs kiss. My chicken wings were also scumpdillyoucious. I could drink the Bourbon Barrel sauce out of a bucket, it's that good... like for real... can someone get me a bucket of that sauce? And there's so many other wing sauce flavors too. Even the basic BBQ flavor is so good, and they have it on the tables, so I find myself dunking my fries in the BBQ, almost as intense as LeBron dunking on Golden State in '16 during game 7. And in case you're a psychopath and enjoy pain such in the form of burning your tastebuds and insides away, they've got hot as heck sauces for you mate! Service was also good. While there were large crowds for discounted wangs and Monday night football, our server was still attentive and kind. That's all you can ask. Note parking is limited directly around the restaurant, so if you're going later in the evening, especially on a special deal night, anticipate time to drive around to find a spot. There are a few handicapped spots, right by the door, and a ramp inside to provided accessibility. Additionally, I used the bathroom and it was fine. Nothing too special, but it was clean. I wish they'd have painted a lizard mural on the wall in the restroom, but maybe next time. User preference. BUYER BEWARE: I didn't see a lizard or any reptile during my time there. I was later made aware that typically, the lizard likes to hang out in the front, in its' designated tank and it usually hides. (To be fair, I too usually hide from humans.) But, I thought maybe as the "OG Winking" they'd have lizards roaming around from time to time, similar to the way Rainforest Cafe has animated rainstorms every now and then. This idea sparked a suggestion... it could be kinda fun if they'd have "random" lizard escape parties, where the lizard would "escape" and get to roam the restaurant, just to keep guests even more entertained and thrilled. We could have played "where's the lizard?" Or "Lizard on the Loose" And been awarded prizes for finding the escaped reptile(s)... #FreeTheWinkingLizard (At least free 'em once a week?) Another suggestion, someone needs to contact the band "King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard" and coordinate a show at the Winking Lizard. It would just be totally rad. Lizard Fest?! Overall, I highly recommend and could go on and on. This is one of my fav places to grab a bite, hang with nature, and meet the broskis. You've gotta visit! read more

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One of my favorite restaurants in Ohio! Excellent drinks selection! They were even willing to make my veggie burger with no bun for me! The wings are awesome too! read more

Winking Lizard - American Near Me - Peninsula, Ohio

Stopped in the Lizard for the first time in about 3 years and it was just like I remembered. It was bustling at 5 pm on a Saturday. The bar was full. The beer selection is always spot on. The wings were crispy, well sauced. I recommend the Cajun (wet) and spicy garlic. My sister ordered all flats and didn't get hit with an up charge. Service was attentive despite how busy it was. The tables were clean, kid friendly environment. Nice to see this location thriving . read more

Winking Lizard - Spicy garlic traditional wings - American Near Me - Peninsula, Ohio

Can't go wrong with 70 cent boneless wings on Tuesdays. Have gone now to the Fairlawn & Peninsula locations during my work trips. Both times got a 32oz beer, boneless wings, & a chicken salad. Beer prices are great. The boneless wings & salad came out quick & at the same time, which is exactly what I wanted. I cut up the boneless wings & tossed them into the salad. Ate half the salad & took the rest home for the next day's lunch. Definitely cannot go wrong with any of their salads. The prices on everything is amazing. read more

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Good food and service. Next door to the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad and close to the falls. Parking is limited. read more

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My salad was delicious. I wish they made this year-round! The staff were very friendly as well. read more

Winking Lizard - Blueberry Steak Salad - American Near Me - Peninsula, Ohio

Have no Idea how good it is because they don't allow dogs on their patio. Tourist destination and no love for dogs. So disappointed.

The Winking Lizard is a hidden gem in peninsula. The ambiance is vintage, rustic, and seasonal. The service is awesome. Everyone is super friendly. The food was exceptional. The only reason i didn't give it 5 stars is because the wings didn't have enough sauce on them. read more

Started off with the onion rings which were good. Especially dipped in the house bbq sauce. For lunch I got the fish sandwich and my bf got the bayou burger. Both were decent. The burger just lacked a little flavor. We didn't taste any Cajun seasoning. The haddock was decent. Nothing to make me excited to have again but worth trying once. read more

Been here many times over the summer. Last trip very disappointed in service and food. Came for the clambake, they brought out clams after the main and here is what my clams looked like. They were better in the past, service not what it used to be. read more

This is the best Winking Lizard! The service is top notch! From the hostess to the servers, everyone is kind and professional! And fast! The prices are amazing and the food is delicious and filling! You can't go wrong here. read more

Excellent service. Good food. Highly recommend. Great place for a group outing. Drinks were good too!

Food is quite good, as is the menu selection, and the staff is friendly, however the atmosphere is compromised by the insane number of TVs in the dining area. I understand having several televisions by the bar, but in the dining rooms it is very distracting -- and nobody is watching them! They cover the entire perimeter of the wall. Totally unnecessary. read more

Winking Lizard - Too many TVs! - American Near Me - Peninsula, Ohio

I was told my sandwich came with a side when I ordered. I got my bill and was charged $2.95 for it. I was told there was an upcharge for it. Unbelievabley tacky way to suck money from a customer. read more

Great spot to stop at. Food was great, doesn't seem like 'bar food' at all. We both really liked our food. They have a diverse menu that should meet anyones tastes, so good for a group. Fun, lively, atmosphere, with indoor and outdoor seating. Good music. They have a large beer and whiskey list. Staff were on point. -I had the tavern salad (has corned beef on it) and a side of Mac and cheese. -husband had the Cajun chicken wrap. Not massive, but a good lunch size. Only minor complaint. I got a cup of freshly made ranch dressing with my salad, and it was good ranch. My husband had asked for a side of ranch when he ordered, but was given a sealed cup of grocery store ranch dip (not my favorite, they always taste like sugar to me). We didn't care enough to say anything though, just a heads up I guess. read more

Winking Lizard - Cajun chicken wrap - American Near Me - Peninsula, Ohio

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Good rib special, burgers are also Excellant. Waitrress are all Excellant as well as quick service.All of their locations are run with good management read more

Winking Lizard is always a solid spot for food and an amazing selection of beer. This location is unique, being located right off the famous Towpath Trail. A great spot to rest your weary legs and quench your hunger and thirst after riding or hiking the trail. Plenty of seating and the service is always fantastic. Typical Winking Lizard atmosphere. Cozy and comfortable. read more

I always enjoy myself when I'm here. The food is good and I especially enjoy those massive burgers and salads. Their beer selection is beyond rival. This building in Peninsula speaks to me from its early days from when it was part of the Peninsula canal days. I think it's great that the Winking Lizard folks have not taken away the historical character of the old lady. I grew up in the area and recall how the building looked and even the shelf in the main bar room, that was lined with pink elephants, in the 1970s. As a young man, I drank beer in the rock hewn basement bar and love to talk about it. This is a true historical landmark and ties us back to a time when men as hard as the rocks, toiled and made their mark on our river valley. It wasn't always a park. It was, and still is, home. read more

The food was decent and the service was also decent, nothing special about the place but nothing bad either

What a neat restaurant!! The food is top notch and the service is as well! My waitress was extremely friendly and informative about the menu. I got the Big Ed burger which was huge!! It was a little over cooked but they were extremely busy and i understand sometimes things get left on the grill just a little too long when it's very busy. That's okay, it was still delicious. The fries were good, and their bbq sauce is to die for! I liked it so much I bought 4 bottles to take back home to Cincinnati with me! I will definitely be back next time I'm in the area. read more

Winking Lizard - Big Ed Burger - American Near Me - Peninsula, Ohio

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Check-in with my girl Michelle - she's worked her 20 years!! and had the best recommendations for both food and drinks. We had the Cajun Chicken salad and the Teriyaki Chicken plate and both were 10/10. Also loved the Market Garden Progess Pilsner - all great. Place has a cool vibe, plenty of TV's and is located in a super cool spot downtown by the Cuyahoga railway. Great visit! read more

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Went here last night for dinner and came home with terrible food poisoning. Food tasted ok, I got the Cajun chicken salad, and everything looked fresh & cooked well. Right after we finished dinner I started to feel dizzy. I spent the rest of the night sick in the bathroom, I've never had food poisoning so terrible before. Just be warned because there are other reviews on trip advisor also complaining about food poisoning. We like the atmosphere, but unfortunately will not be back, not worth it. read more

Ate at one in Akron. Food was not very good. Just no flavor. Gentleman we wer with got a Cajun burger, way over cooked and no Cajun flavor. Portions were large, but just not good.. read more

The Winking Lizard was the perfect spot for lunch close to Cuyahoga National Park! The food was awesome and the service was great as well!! We will definitely be back! read more

Winking Lizard - Kids menu - American Near Me - Peninsula, Ohio