The 1 Food & Spirits

The 1 Food & Spirits, nestled in the historic heart of downtown Akron at 1 South Main Street, serves as the culinary centerpiece of the BLU‑tique Hotel. Guests step into a sleek industrial space where exposed brick walls meet polished copper accents, and a rooftop patio offers panoramic views of the Akron skyline, the nearby Akron Art Museum, and Canal Park. Head chef Michael Russo, a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, curates a seasonal menu that blends Midwestern farm‑fresh ingredients with global flavors. Signature dishes include the 1‑Burger with locally sourced beef, caramelized onions, smoked cheddar, and a house‑made aioli, as well as the Akron Skyline Salad featuring heirloom tomatoes, roasted beets, goat cheese, and a citrus‑hazelnut vinaigrette. The bar, led by mixologist Jenna Patel, crafts inventive cocktails such as the “Riverfront Old Fashioned” made with Ohio bourbon, maple syrup, and orange bitters, and the “Blue‑tique Martini” infused with lavender and local honey. Lunch service runs from 11 am to 2 pm, and dinner opens at 5 pm, staying lively until midnight. Prices range from $15 for small plates to $35 for premium entrees, positioning the venue as an affordable yet refined dining option. The ambience shifts from a bright, bustling lunch scene to an intimate, candle‑lit dinner atmosphere, complemented by soft jazz and a curated playlist of local indie artists. Whether you’re a business traveler staying at the hotel, a local looking for a weekend brunch, or a visitor exploring Akron’s revitalized downtown, The 1 Food & Spirits promises a memorable culinary experience.