Northeast Ohio restaurant named one of the best in the nation by USA Today
A Northeast Ohio restaurant has been named one of the best in the nation by USA Today. Three Ohio restaurants made the list for best in the country for 2025 including Social at the Stone House.
The restaurant, which opened in July 2021, is located in Massillon just outside the Mahoning Valley.
The upscale neighborhood restaurant blends fusion cuisine with fresh ingredients and bold flavors to create an unforgettable dining experience.
Owner Sandy Doll said the sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere makes it the perfect destination for a family gathering or a night out. She said in addition to its thoughtfully crafted menu, the restaurant also offers an extensive wine list and innovative cocktails.
“Social is located in a beautifully renovated 1800’s historic home, offering a dining experience that is both elegant and inviting,” Doll said.
Doll said being recognized on USA Today’s Restaurants of the Year 2025 list as one of 44 restaurants is an incredible honor and she is beyond grateful for this recognition.
“We pour our hearts into every detail—from the dishes we create to the hospitality we provide—so to see that passion acknowledged on a national level is truly rewarding,” she said. “This achievement is a testament to our dedicated team, our loyal guests and the amazing community that has supported us from the beginning.”
The restaurant offers a diverse selection of gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan options ensuring that every guest finds something to enjoy, according to Doll. It also boasts multiple private dining rooms and four cozy fireplaces. Guests can choose to dine fireside, in an intimate private setting or al fresco on the eatery’s whimsical, pet-friendly patio during the warmer months.
Doll said the restaurant making USA Today’s top restaurant list is an incredible milestone.
“It’s a reflection of the passion, hard work and dedication that my entire team puts into creating memorable dining experiences for our guests,” she said. “We have been open less than four years and this recognition not only validates our commitment to exceptional food and hospitality but also shines a spotlight on our amazing community, which has embraced and supported us from the very beginning.”
“It inspires us to continue innovating, creating, and welcoming guests with the same warmth and excellence that got us here,” Doll added.
Menu favorites include Steak Bites - tender filet, portobello mushrooms tossed in a Detroit Zip Sauce and served with a garlic crostini, Caesar Parmesan-Crusted Chicken Breast, Bell and Evans chicken breast served with zucchini noodles, and the restaurant’s 12 ounce Bourbon-Glazed Duroc Pork Chop with roasted creole tomatoes and smashed garlic redskins.
“Our mini beignets are pretty fabulous as well,” Doll said.
The restaurant offers live entertainment Thursday evenings during the months of May, June, July, August and September.
Doll said the first-floor lounge provides a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere, while the third-floor Overlook Lounge offers cozy vibes with comfortable seating, hightop dining tables and a fireplace.
Agni in Columbus and The Aperture in Cincinnati also made the list.
Social at the Stone House is at 824 Lincoln Way East in Massillon and can be reached at 330-809-0461.
This story was originally published March 14, 2025 at 5:00 AM.