Where do the locals take their friends from out-of-town?

Here’re our top 11 picks located in nearby communities.

Fairborn/McKenna’s Grille: casual atmosphere, steaks, chops and seafood. 2800 Presidential Drive, Holiday Inn I-675 (937.426.7800)

Beavercreek/The Wellington Grille: classic cuisine with notable Asian flavors, 2450 Dayton-Xenia Road (937.426.4600) www.wellingtongrille.com

Bellbrook/Amelia’s Bistro: 5-star rated by local reviewers, featuring American and European cuisine, 129 West Franklin Street, Bellbrook (937.310.3040) www.ameliasbellbrook.com

Spring Valley/Spartan Spirit: lunch or dinner in a quaint small town setting, 13 West Main Street (937.826.9999)

Cedarville/Colonial Pizza: overlooking Massie’s Creek, pizza and quick Italian fare, 98 North Main Street (937.766.5779) www.colonialpizzacedarville.com

Jamestown/Bentino’s Pizza: the place for pizza and Italian fare, 82A Seaman Drive (937.675.7200)

Jamestown/Jim-Town Pizzaria: the other place for pizza and Italian fare, 1 East Washington Street (937) 675-9000

Clifton/Millrace Restaurant: located in the Historic Clifton Mill, named by Gourmet Magazine as one of America’s best breakfasts, also open for lunch, 75 Water Street (937.767.5501) www.CliftonMill.com

Yellow Springs/The Golden Jersey Inn: family-style restaurant featuring old-fashioned cooking using local farm products, 6880 U.S. Route 68 (937.324.2050) www.youngsdairy.com

Yellow Springs/Ye Olde Trail Tavern & Family Restaurant: historic log structure serving travelers since the early 1800s, outdoor seating, 228 Xenia Avenue (937.767.7448)

Xenia/Nick’s Restaurant: surprisingly varied menu in a classic neighborhood bar atmosphere, 1443 North Detroit Street (937.372.3202)