First Place: Mike’s Place
Mike’s Place stands out for its gigantic menu and its unmistakable atmosphere.
It is well-known for its larger than life setting, making the restaurant a landmark in Kent. From themed decor to unique seating areas, it offers an experience that goes beyond dining.
Many travel far for the restaurant’s most popular items such as burgers and garlic parmesan fries. The mimosa flight is also a staple for those over 21.
Owner Cody Kostensky emphasized one aspect that makes the restaurant truly special: The atmosphere.
“We are such a unique place,” he said. “From having a castle to eating inside a full size Jaws Replica Boat named by a Kent State student, there is nothing else like us. We believe in offering huge portions and great quality food.”
Customers note the restaurant’s quirky decor and themed rooms including the boat, a bus that has tables for seating and the airplane outside.
The combination of creativity and quality appears to be exactly what resonates with the community. For the Mike’s Place team, being recognized as part of Best of Kent is deeply meaningful. Kostensky said the recognition reflects the effort behind the scenes.
“To be recognized by the community as one of Best of Kent’s winners means the world to us,” Kostensky said. “The thousands of hours of work that goes into keeping this restaurant running feels so much better when the community recognizes it.”
Beyond the food, Mike’s Place continues to build its identity as a social hub. With live music, events and its well-known patio atmosphere complete with a waterfall and tropical music, it aims to offer an escape that blends dining with entertainment.
“We love being a part of this community and couldn’t ask for a better town to be a part of,” Kostensky said.
Mikes Place can be found at 1700 S. Water St., and it can be reached at 330-673-6501.
Second Place: Ray’s Place
Kent’s longtime staple, Ray’s Place, is known for its welcoming environment and consistent service.
For many customers, the experience goes beyond the menu. It’s about how they are treated from the moment they walk in.
Customer Kelly Federico described the atmosphere as particularly inviting. She noted how attentive the staff was throughout her visit.
“Whenever a staff member walked by our table, they asked how everything was and if we needed anything,” Federico said. “It wasn’t just our waitress, who was so bubbly and nice, that made sure we had everything. It’s so refreshing to be in an atmosphere where they are glad we were there and that we weren’t ‘bothering’ them like some establishments can be.”
That sense of hospitality is part of what has helped Ray’s Place maintain its reputation among longtime locals and visitors alike. The relaxed, friendly environment encourages people to linger, whether they’re catching up with friends, grabbing a casual meal or taking a break between classes.
The menu is made up of American classics, such as burgers, sandwiches and salads. The establishment is also well renowned for its smoked meats like pastrami and chicken wings.
For customers, it’s not just a restaurant, but a familiar and dependable gathering spot that reflects the character of the Kent community.
Frank Ross, a customer and Kent State alum, said that “the food is delicious, the service is great and the atmosphere is very comfortable.”
Ray’s Place can be found at 135 Franklin Ave., and it can be reached at 330-673-2233.
Third Place: Pacific East
Rounding out the top three is Pacific East, which brings a different flavor to Kent’s dining scene with its Asian cuisine.
Loyal customers highlight both the quality of the food and the reliability of the service.
Dawn Swan, a customer and Kent resident, said she has “always loved everything I’ve eaten here, as well as their green tea. The service is also good.”
Pacific East’s appeal lies in its consistency and in delivering a satisfying experience across a wide range of dishes. For customers, it serves as a go-to spot when looking for dependable quality and familiar favorites.
The menu’s variety allows both returning customers and first time visitors to find something that suits their preferences. It includes a wide range of specialty sushi options, hibachi, specialty drinks and other Asian classics like orange chicken and beef broccoli.
Pacific East can be found at 100 E. Main St., and it can be reached at 234-263-5018.
Alexis Hood is a beat reporter. Contact her at [email protected].
Talia Scassa is a reporter for KSTV. Contact her at [email protected].
