A popular Sandusky restaurant recently was honored as one of the best pizza spots in the Midwest.
Brick Oven Bistro, 1012 Cleveland Road West, Sandusky, was named #22 on
Yelp’s 2024 Top 100 Pizza Spots in the Midwest on Aug. 20.
In order to compile the list, Yelp’s “data team analyzed business rating and review volume,” according to the website.
The Cleveland Road restaurant, which has been in business for more than 11 years, claimed the 94th spot on Yelp’s top 100 pizza shops in the country list in 2022. It has a 4.6-star rating with 523 reviews on Yelp.
Brick Oven Bistro General Manager Benjamin Middleswarth learned of the ranking from a friend who messaged him the day the list was released.
“We were excited,” he says. “It’s always fun to be recognized.”
Middleswarth, whose parents, Lynn and Karen Middleswarth, own the restaurant, attributes the ranking to several factors.
“I think it’s a combination of our food and service,” he says. “We work very hard to prepare almost all our food in house. Everything is fresh. Our service staff also does a great job taking care of our guests, educating them on the menu, and making everyone feel welcome.”
Among Brick Oven Bistro’s top sellers is the pear gorgonzola pizza, which is a base of extra virgin olive oil, topped with a house blend of cheese, red onion, fresh-sliced pears, bacon, and crumbled gorgonzola cheese.
“After it comes out we top it with candied walnuts, balsamic reduction, and arugula,” Middleswarth says.
Yelp reviewers agree that the pear gorgonzola, along with other favorites like meatball pizza and calzones, are just a few of the delicious options at Brick Oven Bistro.
"I'd recommend checking this place out," notes Ria, a reviewer from Pittsburgh. "Whether you are local or just visiting, it has a nice ambiance, delicious food, and friendly people."
Brick Oven Bistro is open from 4-9 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday; noon-10 p.m. Friday and Saturday; and 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Sunday. To place an order, call 419-624-1400 or visit their website at brickovenohio.com.