If you’re planning to fly within the U.S. any time after May 7, 2025, there’s a big update you need to know about. The REAL ID Act is finally going into full effect, and it could impact your travel plans if you’re not prepared.
So what exactly is a REAL ID, and what do you need to fly? Here’s a quick breakdown to help you stay on track and in the air.
What Is the REAL ID?
REAL ID is a federal standard for identification, established to improve security for domestic travel and access to certain federal facilities. Starting May 7, 2025, all travelers aged 18 and older will be required to show a REAL ID-compliant form of identification to board domestic flights.
If your ID isn’t compliant, you won’t make it past TSA—even if you already have a boarding pass.
How Do I Know If My ID Is REAL ID-Compliant?
Most REAL IDs have a star in the upper right-hand corner. If you don’t see a star, it’s likely not compliant. However, you can also travel with other forms of accepted ID.
Acceptable Alternatives to a REAL ID
If you don’t have a REAL ID yet, don’t worry—you can still fly as long as you have one of the following:
A valid U.S. passport or passport card An Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) – available in some states, including Ohio A Trusted Traveler Program card (e.g., Global Entry) U.S. military ID or other DHS-approved identification
What You Need to Get a REAL ID (Ohio Example)
If you’re in Ohio and need to upgrade your driver’s license to a REAL ID, head to your local BMV with the following:
Proof of your legal name and date of birth (like a birth certificate or valid passport) Your Social Security number (Social Security card, W-2, or tax form) Two documents proving Ohio residency (utility bills, bank statements, lease agreements, etc.) Proof of lawful status in the U.S.
Do Kids Need a REAL ID?
Nope! Children under 18 are not required to show ID if they’re traveling with an adult who has acceptable identification.
No More Extensions—It’s Happening
This requirement has been delayed a few times, but the Department of Homeland Security has confirmed: May 7, 2025, is the final deadline. No more extensions.
Final Thoughts
Don’t wait until the last minute. If you haven’t checked your ID yet, now is the time. Upgrading to a REAL ID is pretty straightforward—and it saves you from the stress of being turned away at the airport.
If you’re traveling this summer or beyond, double-check your ID and keep flying smoothly.
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Need help planning your next trip or navigating airport logistics? Stay tuned to Take the Trip by Brian for more travel tips, tricks, and up-to-date advice!
1. Magic Kingdom – Walt Disney World Resort (Florida)
Day Ticket: $119 Accommodation: $130–$1,000+ per night Food: $38–$104 per adult per day Estimated Total for One Day: $287–$1,223
2. EPCOT – Walt Disney World Resort (Florida)
Day Ticket: $119 Accommodation: $130–$1,000+ per night Food: $38–$104 per adult per day Estimated Total for One Day: $287–$1,223
3. Disney’s Hollywood Studios – Walt Disney World Resort (Florida)
Day Ticket: $119 Accommodation: $130–$1,000+ per night Food: $38–$104 per adult per day Estimated Total for One Day: $287–$1,223
4. Disney’s Animal Kingdom – Walt Disney World Resort (Florida)
Day Ticket: $119 Accommodation: $130–$1,000+ per night Food: $38–$104 per adult per day Estimated Total for One Day: $287–$1,223
5. Disneyland Park – Disneyland Resort (California)
Day Ticket: $103–$206 Accommodation: $400+ per night Food: $65–$115 per adult per day Estimated Total for One Day: $568–$1,436
6. Disney California Adventure Park – Disneyland Resort (California)
Day Ticket: $103–$206 Accommodation: $400+ per night Food: $65–$115 per adult per day Estimated Total for One Day: $568–$1,436
For France
7. Disneyland Park – Disneyland Paris
Day Ticket: $60–$125 Accommodation: $137–$422 per night Food: $23–$230 per person per day Estimated Total for One Day: $220–$777
8. Walt Disney Studios Park – Disneyland Paris
Day Ticket: $60–$125 Accommodation: $137–$422 per night Food: $23–$230 per person per day Estimated Total for One Day: $220–$777
For Japan
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9. Tokyo Disneyland – Tokyo Disney Resort
Day Ticket: $60–$77 Accommodation: $163–$2,166 per night Food: $15–$30 per adult per day Estimated Total for One Day: $238–$2,273
10. Tokyo DisneySea – Tokyo Disney Resort
Day Ticket: $60–$77 Accommodation: $163–$2,166 per night Food: $15–$30 per adult per day Estimated Total for One Day: $238–$2,273
For China
11. Shanghai Disneyland – Shanghai Disney Resort
Day Ticket: $74–$90 Accommodation: $450–$1,300 per night Food: $45–$58 per adult per day Estimated Total for One Day: $569–$1,448
12. Hong Kong Disneyland – Hong Kong Disneyland Resort
Day Ticket: $86 Accommodation: $286 per night Food: $115–$178 per adult per day Estimated Total for One Day: $487–$550
💰 Estimated Total Cost to Visit All 12 Parks
Assuming a 12-day trip, visiting one park per day, the total cost would range approximately from $3,600 to $16,000+, depending on choices for accommodations, dining, and travel preferences.
🛫 Travel Considerations
Flights: International flights can significantly impact the overall cost. Accommodation: Opting for budget-friendly hotels or off-site accommodations can reduce expenses. Dining: Choosing quick-service meals or bringing your own snacks can help manage food costs.
For more detailed planning and current pricing, consider visiting the official Disney websites for each resort:
One of my favorite parts of traveling is not just seeing the iconic landmarks or taking in the views—it is discovering those hidden gems that only locals seem to know about. I am talking about the tiny taco stands, the family-run noodle joints, the no-frills coffee shops tucked into an alley. These are the hole-in-the-wall spots that make a trip feel real. And finding them? That is part of the fun.
Here are my go-to strategies for uncovering those off-the-radar places that serve unforgettable experiences (and usually, great food too):
1. Talk to Locals (Seriously!)
No guidebook or app can replace a recommendation from someone who lives there. Chat with your Airbnb host, your Uber driver, the bartender down the street, or someone working at a museum or shop. Ask:
“Where do you eat when you’re off work?” or
“If you could only eat at one place in this city, what would it be?”
You will be surprised how eager people are to share their favorites.
2. Explore Away from the Tourist Centers
The closer you are to a major attraction, the more likely you will find overpriced, tourist-focused spots. Walk 5–10 blocks in the opposite direction. Wander into neighborhoods where there is not a single souvenir stand in sight. That is where the good stuff usually hides.
3. Use Social Media for Sleuthing
Apps like Instagram, TikTok, and Reddit are goldmines for discovering hidden gems. Try searching for hashtags like:
Or hit up local foodie Reddit threads like r/Food NYC or r/LosAngelesEats—you’ll find deep dives on places that do not even have a website.
4. Look for Lines (But Not at Chains)
Locals know where the good stuff is—and they are willing to wait. A tiny spot with a line of neighborhood folks out the door is usually a solid bet. If it is cash only, it has a faded sign, and still has a line? You are in the right place.
5. Use Google Maps Differently
Zoom in on a less touristy area and look for places with lots of reviews but low-key names. Read the comments. People will often say things like “best kept secret” or “been coming here since I was a kid.” That is what you want.
Pro tip: Look at the photos from reviewers, not the ones uploaded by the business. You will get a more honest look at what to expect.
6. Be Open to Dive Bars, Food Trucks & Mom-and-Pop Shops
Some of the best meals I have ever had come from places I almost walked past. The diner with five tables. The taco truck parked outside a gas station. The Vietnamese sandwich shop sandwiched between a laundromat and a vapes store. These spots have soul—and they are usually run by people who pour their heart into the food.
7. Trust Your Gut (And Your Nose)
Sometimes, you just must follow your instincts. If a place smells amazing, has a steady flow of locals, and feels like a spot people come back to often, try it—even if it is not online or recommended anywhere.
Final Thought:
The best part about hole-in-the-wall finds is that they make your trip feel personal. Anyone can Google “Top 10 Restaurants in Rome,” but you found that tucked-away trattoria with the handmade pasta and no English menu—that is your story.
So next time you hit a new city, do not just take the tour—Take the Trip.
Essential Travel Tips for your Next Car Adventure!
There’s something timeless about hitting the open road with your favorite playlist, snacks in the backseat, and a loose plan that leaves room for adventure. Whether you’re cruising the coast or weaving through mountain highways, road trips are one of the most flexible and fun ways to travel. But to make the most of your journey, a little prep goes a long way. Here are my top travel tips for car trips to keep your adventure smooth, safe, and unforgettable.
1. Prep Your Vehicle
Before you leave, make sure your car is in top shape. That means:
Check your tires (including the spare) Top off fluids like oil, coolant, and windshield washer fluid Test your brakes and lights Bring jumper cables, a tire repair kit, and a first aid kit.
A visit to a mechanic for a quick pre-trip check-up is worth the peace of mind.
2. Map Your Route — But Stay Flexible
Have a plan, but do not be afraid to go off script. I like using apps like Google Maps or Roadtrippers to find cool stops along the way, quirky roadside attractions, scenic lookouts, and hidden diners. Download offline maps in case you hit dead zones.
Pro Tip: Give yourself extra time each day for unexpected detours and rest stops.
3. Pack Smart, Not Heavy
Space is limited, especially if you are traveling with friends or family. Prioritize comfort:
Clothes you can layer Toiletries in a small bag, Reusable water bottles A small cooler with snacks Phone chargers (car adapter + portable battery)
Bonus: Bring a comfy travel pillow and blanket for passengers or naps at rest areas.
4. Entertainment is Key
The miles go faster with good music, podcasts, or audiobooks. I always queue up a few playlists and download episodes for when signal disappears. Road trip games can be a great way to pass time too (classic “license plate game,” anyone?).
5. Snack Like a Pro
Healthy-ish snacks can keep you energized without making you feel sluggish. Think:
Trail mix Granola bars Fresh fruit Jerky Crackers
Limit the sugary stuff unless you want the crash mid-drive. And always have a trash bag handy!
6. Rest, Recharge, Repeat
Do not overdo it. Fatigue behind the wheel is dangerous. Rotate drivers if you can and take breaks every couple of hours. Even a 10-minute walk at a rest stop can help you reset.
Plan your overnight stays in advance—or have a list of potential towns with hotel or campsite options.
7. Capture the Moments
Some of my favorite travel memories come from unexpected moments on the road. Take photos, record videos, jot down funny stories, it’s all part of the adventure. And if you are documenting your trip like I do, keep a small tripod or phone mount handy for those scenic shots.
Final Thought
A great road trip is equal parts planning and spontaneity. With the right prep and the right mindset, the road becomes more than just a way to get somewhere, it is the adventure. So, pack up, gas up, and take the trip.
If you have been wondering what all the hype is about. Floating hotel? Buffet lines? Crowds of people? I used to think that too—until I took my first cruise. Now? I am hooked.
After several sailings across different cruise lines and destinations, I can confidently say that cruising offers a travel experience like no other. Whether you are a beach lover, a foodie, an adventure seeker, or just looking to relax and unplug, a cruise checks all the boxes.
Here is what makes cruising such a wonderful way to travel—and why it might be perfect for your next trip.
1. You Unpack Once, But Visit Multiple Destinations
This is one of my favorite things about cruising. You hop on board, settle into your cabin, and from there—your hotel moves with you. You wake up in a new destination without the hassle of airports, taxis, or constantly packing and unpacking. One trip, multiple bucket list stops. Easy.
2. It is Surprisingly Cost-Effective
When you consider that your cruise fare includes your lodging, food, entertainment, and transportation between destinations, cruising can be fantastic value. There are options for every budget—from quick weekend getaways to all-inclusive luxury sailing.
Plus, you will usually find deals that include perks like drink packages, onboard credit, or free excursions.
3. There’s Something for Everyone
Whether you are traveling solo, as a couple, with family, or in a group—there is something onboard for every personality.
Want to relax? Hit the spa or the adults-only solarium. Want to be entertained? Catch a Broadway-style show or comedy act. Want adventure? Try zip lining, rock climbing, surfing, or exploring new cultures on shore excursions.
Cruising can be as chill or as action-packed as you want it to be.
4. The Food Game is Strong
We are talking about endless options: buffets, sit-down dining, room service, and specialty restaurants. And no, it is not just cruise food stereotypes anymore—some of the meals I have had onboard rival top restaurants on land.
Also, did I mention soft serve ice cream and late-night pizza are always available?
5. You Get to Disconnect (or Stay Connected—Your Choice)
There is something special about being out at sea, away from the usual noise of life. You can totally unplug and enjoy the views, read a book by the pool, or just stare at the horizon with a cocktail in hand.
But if you are not ready to go full digital detox, cruise lines now offer Wi-Fi packages to keep you connected when you want to be.
6. Waking Up to an Ocean Sunrise Never Gets Old
There is something incredibly peaceful about waking up to the sound of the sea and stepping out onto your balcony (if you get one) to watch the sun rise over a brand-new place. It is a vibe that is hard to beat.
7. It is Easy to Try New Things
On a cruise, you might find yourself trying new cuisines, attending a dance class, or learning to scuba dive—all without leaving the ship. And when do you go ashore? You can dive into local cultures, historical tours, beach days, or adrenaline-filled excursions depending on where you are.
Final Thoughts:
Cruising is more than just a vacation—it is an experience that combines adventure, comfort, and discovery. Whether you are island-hopping in the Caribbean, exploring Europe, or chasing glaciers in Alaska, there is a cruise out there with your name on it.
So, if you have been on the fence about cruising, here is my advice: Take the Trip.
Have questions about choosing your first cruise or wanting to know which ships and routes I recommend? Drop a comment or message me on Instagram @TakeTheTripByBrian—I have you covered.
If there is one thing, I have learned from hitting the road, hopping on planes, and exploring unfamiliar places, it is that travel is personal. For some, the dream is to sip espresso in a quiet café in Rome. For others, it is hiking through Patagonia, sleeping under the Northern Lights, or driving across the U.S. with nothing but a map and a bag full of snacks.
We all have that list—the one we think about when we are daydreaming or scrolling through photos of faraway places. So today, I want to ask you: What is on your travel bucket list?
Let Us Talk Travel Dreams
Your bucket list does not have to be filled with big, far-off adventures. It can be:
A weekend getaway to a nearby city you have never explored A solo trip to reconnect with yourself Visiting all the U.S. national parks Taking your family on their first beach vacation Finally booking that once-in-a-lifetime international trip.
Whatever it is, it is yours—and I want to hear about it.
Why Bucket Lists Matter
Travel bucket lists are more than just a list of places—they are goals, dreams, and reminders that there is a world out there waiting for us. They help us stay curious, adventurous, and open to new experiences. Whether you are actively checking destinations off your list or just starting to imagine the possibilities, you are already taking the first step.
Let Us Share!
Drop a comment below or tag me on social (takethetripbybrian) and let me know:
What is one place at the very top of your list? Is there a trip you have always dreamed of but have not taken yet? What is a destination that surprised you and ended up being bucket-list worthy?
I will be sharing some of your answers in an upcoming post, and who knows—you might just inspire someone else to take their trip.
Final Thought
The world is wide, and the opportunities are endless. Do not wait for the “perfect” time—start dreaming, start planning, and when you are ready… take the trip.
Planning a trip can be exciting—but let us be real, it can also be overwhelming. From figuring out the best time to book a flight, to knowing what to pack, or choosing between Airbnb or hotel, there are a lot of moving parts when it comes to travel.
Over the past few years, I have learned tips, tricks, and lessons (some the hard way) from countless adventures—and now, I want to help you do the same.
So, here is my question for you:
What is your biggest travel question?
Maybe It is…
“How do I find the cheapest flights?” “Is it better to book excursions through the cruise line or on my own?” “What’s the best way to pack light for a two-week trip?” “How do I stay safe while traveling solo?” “Where should I go for my first international trip?”
Whatever it is, I want to hear it. Big or small, beginner or experienced traveler—I am here for all of it.
Why am I Asking?
Take the Trip by Brian is not just about sharing my experiences—it is about building a community of travelers who help each other get out there and explore. Your questions help shape future blog posts, videos, packing guides, and destination tips. If you are wondering about something, chances are someone else is too.
How to Ask
You can:
Drop your question into the comments below DM me on Instagram [TakeTheTripByBrian] Send a message through the contact form on my site.
I will be answering questions regularly in upcoming blog posts, Instagram stories, and even in my travel vlogs—so your question might be featured!
Let us figure it out together.
Whether you are dreaming of a solo trip through Europe, a relaxing cruise, or your first flight ever, I have your back. You do not have to be a full-time traveler to start exploring the world. You just must start asking the right questions… and then, Take the Trip.
So, what is your travel question? Let me know, I cannot wait to hear from you.
Welcome to Holland, Michigan—founded in 1847, the tulip capital of the United States, where Dutch heritage meets Midwestern charm. Whether you’re a history buff, outdoor enthusiast, foodie, or simply in search of small-town hospitality with big-city flair, Holland offers something for everyone. Here’s your insider’s guide to making the most of this picturesque lakeshore community.
Tulip Time: Spring’s Rainbow Carnival
Each May, over five million tulips burst into bloom, transforming the city into a kaleidoscope of color. The Tulip Time Festival (early mid-May) is Holland’s signature event, featuring parades, Dutch dance performances, and artisan markets. Even if you cannot make the festivals, garden trails at Windmill Island Gardens—with its authentic Dutch windmill “De Zwaan”—and the annual bulb-planting ceremonies are spectacles worth planning around.
Windmill Island Gardens & De Zwaan
A five-acre Dutch masterpiece, Windmill Island is home to De Zwaan—North America’s only authentic, working Dutch windmill (1816). Stroll through manicured gardens ablaze with tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths in spring, or relax by the reflecting pool amid peonies in early summer. Live demonstrations—from wooden-shoe carving to clog dancing—bring Dutch customs to life year-round.
Downtown Delight: Shops & Bites
Downtown Holland is loaded with boutique shops, art galleries, and farm-to-table eateries. Pop into End wood Furniture for handcrafted home goods, browse local art at Galerie Periode, then refuel at (614) on Eighth, where seasonal menus highlight ingredients grown within sixty miles. For a sweet treat, you can’t go wrong with crisp, syrup-filled pastries at Windmill Restaurant or locally roasted coffee and pastries at Baker’s Wife.
Speaking of great food, on my Yelp food bucket list was a Southern food place close to Holland in Saugatuck, known for its out-of-this-world Fried Chicken, so we had to check it out!
Southern Roots: Sauintack’s Home for Fried Chicken, Comfort Food, and Southern Charm
If you are ever passing through Sauintack, Michigan—or lucky enough to call it home—there is one place you absolutely need to try: Southern Roots. This cozy, family-owned restaurant has built a reputation as the go-to spot for authentic Southern cuisine, and once you have had a bite of their legendary fried chicken, you will understand why.
From the outside, Southern Roots looks like a warm hug—welcoming, charming, and full of character. Step inside and you are greeted with rustic wood accents, soft lighting, and the gentle hum of Motown and blues playing in the background. The vibe is laid-back and homey, like sitting in your grandma’s kitchen… if your grandma happened to be a Southern cooking legend.
Now let us talk about fried chicken. It is the star of the show, and rightfully so. Perfectly seasoned, golden and crispy on the outside, unbelievably juicy on the inside, this chicken is the real deal. Whether you go for the classic plate, wings, or spicy Nashville-style, every bite is packed with flavor and made fresh to order.
The side dishes at Southern Roots are anything but an afterthought. We’re talking buttery cornbread, smoky collard greens, creamy mac, and cheese, sweet, candied yams, tangy coleslaw, and mashed potatoes that practically melt in your mouth. Each side could be a headliner on its own, but together, they make a meal that feels like Sunday supper at its finest.
The staff at Southern Roots are as much a part of the experience as the food. Friendly, attentive, and always ready with a recommendation or a story about the family recipes that inspired the menu. You are not just another customer here, you are part of the community, even if it’s your first visit.
As for prices? Southern Roots keep things fair and approachable. You will find generous portions and down-home flavor without the fancy price tag. Most entrées fall in the $13–$18 range, with combo meals and family platters available if you are bringing the whole crew.
Whether you are in the mood for comfort food that hits the spot, a casual dinner with friends, or a place to unwind after a long week, Southern Roots is a must-visit. Come hungry, leave happy—and do not be surprised if it becomes your new favorite spot in town.
Southern Roots….Where the food is soulful, the people are kind, and every meal feels like home!
Holland, Michigan, is more than just a pretty face; it is a warm-hearted community proud of its past and excited about its future. Whether you are chasing tulips in spring, chasing sunsets on the lake, or simply chasing a slower pace of life, you’ll find your perfect adventure here. Pack your bags, bring your curiosity—and get ready to say “Welkom!” to a truly unforgettable getaway.
TSA Line Mistakes to Avoid: 10 Airport Security Tips for Stress-Free Travel
Author: Brian | Take the Trip
Published: April 18, 2025
Let us face it, airport security lines can be one of the most stressful parts of travel.
Whether you are running late or just trying to keep your cool, a few missteps in the TSA line can throw your whole travel day off track. After countless flights and plenty of trial and error, I have learned a few tricks to help you move through like a pro.
Here are ten airport security tips to keep you moving and mistake-free the next time you fly:
1. Don’t Wait to Take Off Your Belt and Shoes
Unbuckle and slip off your shoes while waiting, do not wait until you’re at the bin.
2. Keep Your ID and Boarding Pass Ready
Have them in hand before you reach the TSA officer. No one wants to watch you dig through your backpack.
3. Know the Rule 3-1-1
Liquids must be under 3.4 oz and fit in a single quart-size bag. Easy to forget—hard to deal with at the front of the line.
4. Skip the Metal Accessories
Avoid extra screenings—keep jewelry and metal to a minimum.
5. Laptops Out (Unless You Have Precheck)
Place laptops and larger electronics in a separate bin.
6. Empty Water Bottles Beforehand
Bring your reusable bottle, just make sure it is empty before security.
7. Do not Overpack Your Carry-On
A stuffed bag often triggers more screening. Pack smart and leave space.
8. Use TSA Precheck or CLEAR If You Travel Often
Fast-track security is worth every penny if you fly often.
9. Be Polite and Stay Cool
Stressful lines do not need added attitude. Kindness and patience move things along.
10. Double-Check Your Bag
No knives, no oversized liquids, no surprises. A quick bag check at home saves time later.
Final Thought
Airport security does not have to be a nightmare. With a little prep, you can sail through like a seasoned traveler. Got a favorite TSA tip of your own? Drop it in the comments below!
My wife and I decided to take a quick getaway to northern Ohio. to visit Genevea on the Lake. Our The first stop was Scooter’s world-famous Hotdog House in Mentor. http://www.scootersworldfamousdawghouse.com
I have had this place on my food bucket list for a while! When we arrived, the place had a cozy diner-style charm and a menu packed with choices! i went big and ordered the Scooter Dog in their largest size available the Homewrecker (yes, that is what it is called!). it is a 18inch hotdog loaded with coney sauce, cheese sauce, onions, mustard, Ketchup and relish, a perfectly steamed bun… It was delicious!
My wife got their homemade chicken salad on oat bread. and She said it was good too. But the surprise? The fries. I ordered a junior fry, thinking it would be enough for one person- especially since I ordered the Homewrecker. The fries were thin, fresh-cut, and enough for 3–4 people; we could not eat them all! Wow, just wow, and they were good!
Scooter’s is counter service joint, so you place your order at the counter, and they call your name when it is ready. If you ever find yourself in northern Ohio near Mentor, Make the stop= You will thank meLater!
Feeling nostalgic in Geneva on the Lake
After filling up at Scooter’s, we headed north and visited the lakefront town of Geneva on the Lake; I haven’t been there since the early 2000s. Walking down the strip felt like stepping back in time. Not much has changed, and honestly, that’s part of its charm.
This touristy tiny town is packed with knickknack shops, t-shirt shops, and cute little throwback fast food stands. old school arcade and Classic fast food stands that look straight out of the 50’s. there are even a couple of dive bars. giving the whole area a laid back, summer on the lake feel.
The highlight for us was The Old Firehouse Winery. We stopped in for a wine tasting, which cost only $8.00 and came with a small stemless wine glass to keep. The staff recommended starting with the driest and working our way towards the sweeter side. We mostly enjoyed the sweeter variety.
We also visited the Ashtabula County Tourist Center, and they were a wealth of information. Did you know Ashtabula has 19 covered bridges and has the largest wine region in the state of Ohio and the third largest in the country?
After Geneva on the Lake, we made our way to Austinburg for the night. We stayed at the Holiday Inn Express near Highway 90, a super convenient location very close to local wineries, restaurants, and some of the region’s iconic covered bridges. oh, and yes- We did make a stop to see the giant rocking chair. (because how could we not?)
Post #3: A Hidden Gem in Austinburg – The Farmer, The Butcher, The Chef
By Brian – Take the Trip
Every great trip has at least one unexpected surprise — and for us, this was it.
While looking through Google Maps near our hotel in Austinburg, Ohio, I stumbled across a place with a name that instantly caught my eye: The Farmer, The Butcher, The Chef. It was not on any list I’d seen or mentioned by anyone — just a hidden gem tucked behind a barn, sitting quietly behind a beautiful old home that now operates as a coffee house.
From the moment we pulled in, I had a good feeling about this place.
When you walk inside, the first thing you will notice is the massive butcher case right in the middle of the restaurant — not something you see every day. The vibe is rustic but refined, and they do things a little differently here: instead of table service, you order directly at the butcher counter where the menu is posted. That is where we met Matt Horton, the owner, who helped guide us through the ordering process. After placing our order, we were given a table number and chose our seats.
Pro tip: They’re currently in between liquor licenses, so for now, it is BYOW (bring your own wine) — or you can help yourself to water, or grab a soda or iced tea from their cooler.
We kicked things off with a salad for two, which honestly could have fed three or four. They even let us split the dressing — I went with Caesar; my wife chose balsamic. It came with shaved Parmesan and crunchy croutons, and it was the perfect start to what turned out to be an unforgettable meal.
My wife ordered the filet mignon — thick and juicy, and they were happy to butterfly it per her request. It came with grilled asparagus and mashed potatoes. I went for the ribeye, grilled medium rare, served with glazed carrots and those same creamy mashed potatoes.
And let me tell you… the steaks were next level. Perfectly seasoned, grilled with care, and melted-in-your-mouth tender. My wife said hers cut “like butter” — and she was not exaggerating. The sides held their own too, with the carrots bringing just the right touch of sweetness and the potatoes rich and comforting.
To pair with the meal, we brought a bottle of Blackberry Wine from Rosabella Winery, a nearby spot that is also worth a visit. The fruity notes of the wine went perfectly with the bold flavors of the steaks.
We finished off the evening with a decadent layered white cake with chocolate filling, topped with white and dark chocolate shavings. We were beyond full by the end — but so satisfied.
This meal was a standout of the trip — the kind of place you do not just eat at, you Remember! If you ever find yourself near Austinburg, run, do not walk, to The Farmer, The Butcher, The Chef. And when you do, tell Matt that Chef Brian from Columbus sent you. Trust me — this is one dinner you will not want to miss.
Take the Trip by Brian 