Restaurants in Fairborn

Frequent diners at Qdoba come for the eatery’s signature flavors, but they may not know how far the staff travels to obtain them. Qdoba’s staff visits various parts of Mexico on a regular basis in search of flavor combinations that later enhance the shop’s burritos, quesadillas, and taco salads. Among these blends are ancho-chili barbecue, gumbo accented with cilantro rice, and the three-cheese queso, a creation that took 47 tries to perfect. Along with sought-after flavors, Qdoba’s staff members pride themselves on their painstaking preparation of fresh ingredients, from fire-roasted tomatoes to mouth-watering poblano peppers.

At The Butter Cafe, every dish that chefs create maintains their commitment to sustainable cooking and eating, from the fluffy, golden pancakes topped with organic sweet-cream butter to the omelets made with locally sourced, free-range eggs. This dedication to sustainability extends to ensure respect for animals and workers. Along with their all-day breakfast, which includes gluten-free and vegan options, lunch and dinner caters to meat lovers and vegans alike with hearty meatloaf served along with vegan hot dogs and spaghetti.

Taking its name from the symbolic plant of Lebanon, Cedarland Bakery & Restaurant excites palates with the sweet and savory delicacies from the Levant. Fluffy loaves of pita conceal treasures of crunchy-chewy falafel and tender chicken shawarma, and meat- and spinach-filled pastries challenge apple pie for its coveted spot in the American psyche. A handsome mural of rustic Mediterranean scenery fills the space, complementing relaxing hookah sessions or feasts of baklava, hummus, and baked kibbeh.

J. Gumbo's strives to upend the five myths of Cajun cooking by preparing expertly spiced and wholly authentic dishes that are as healthy as they are hearty. Celery, onions, and bell peppers—the "trinity" of Cajun fare—anchor several items on the menu, including the creole-style jambalaya and étouffée peppered with plump shrimp or crayfish. Creative mix-and-match options encourage diners to sample multiple morsels and test the sturdiness of their dishware by piling several signature entrees into a single bowl. Vegetarian and gluten-free dishes also populate tables within the vibrantly painted dining room. J. Gumbo's also offers catering and delivery.