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Welcome to Rudder's Cafe-Catawba

Rudder's Cafe-Catawba, nestled on Catawba Road in Port Clinton, OH, is a gem that has delighted locals and visitors for over two decades. Celebrated for its fresh, individually prepared meals, this charming cafe offers a delightful mix of breakfast and lunch options, including gourmet sandwiches, homemade soups, and robust salads. Guests often praise the inviting atmosphere, with ample indoor and outdoor seating, complemented by a friendly and attentive staff. The café also features a quaint gift shop, making it a perfect stop before heading to Put-in-Bay. Whether savoring a comforting bowl of soup or a flavorful sandwich, Rudder's promises a memorable dining experience.

Rudder's Cafe-Catawba: Reviews & Ratings

Matt Orem
Matt Orem

Great breakfast and lunch on top of service. Very nice place to sit inside and out. Ingredients are fresh and individually prepared. Meat was cut after we placed our order. Not many places do this any more. Worth the wait even though we were quickly served This is one of our new go to places even though they have been here for 20 years!

S Carney
S Carney

My family stopped in for lunch. Very nice staff. Cute gift shop. Good food and atmosphere. Enjoyed dining out on the deck.

Erin Russell
Erin Russell

This place is a wonderful deli and bakery. The sandwich selection is good while the bakery selection is modest. It was a cold day and my party and I were looking for something to warm us up. We stopped at Rudder's Cafe and bought soup and some baked goods. They tasted wonderful and the staff was pleasant and helpful. We will definitely go back.

Sunadh Hegde
Sunadh Hegde

We stopped here to grab a quick bite before heading to the Put in Bay island. The cafe is less than 5 minutes (drive) away from the ferry point. We enjoyed the food and drinks.

Jim Johnson
Jim Johnson

Wife and I stopped in for lunch while visiting Catawba Island. We were surprized at the fun and colorful motif and decore. Also amazed with the numerous options of gourmet sandwiches, home made soups, and salads. But what really stood out was the warmth and sincerity of the wait staff. It was refreshing to see. I had the rubin sandwich and my wife had the chicken salad with a cup of tomato mushroom soup. Both were fresh and tasty. Only regret is that we couldn't try more of the menu. I really wanted to try the Chicago hot dog but maybe next time. We will certainly return on our next trip to the area and highly recommend.

Rachel McGill
Rachel McGill

Excellent, fresh food. Fast, friendly service. Healthy options. In-house fresh baked goods to rival any European pastry shop. A store full of selective, local goods and snacks. Cooler full of drinks from wine and beer to soda and kombucha. Dogs allowed on the cozy patio. I really don’t know what else you could ask for. This place was a happy surprise to find on the island. I was looking for fresh, healthy vegetarian with a comfy outdoor atmosphere, and that’s exactly what I found. I highly recommend and will be back if I’m in the area. I had the chickpea salad wrap with a side of fresh baked beans. All was excellent.

Danica Haverty
Danica Haverty

Really cool spot for breakfast, lunch, coffee or to shop around. We stopped here for a coffee and morning treat and can’t wait to come back. Staff was so friendly and our pastry and coffee were fantastic.

Colin Stewart
Colin Stewart

Love the dog friendly patio and excellent healthy food. Reuben and power boat salad with chicken were fantastic

Location

Welcome to Rudder's Cafe-Catawba, a hidden gem nestled in Port Clinton, Ohio, where flavor and warmth meet in a vibrant dining oasis. Situated at 3260 NE Catawba Rd, this quaint cafe boasts a reputation that has been built over two decades, yet remains refreshingly innovative in its offerings. When you step inside, you’re greeted by a fun and colorful decor that sets the tone for a delightful culinary experience.

Rudder's Cafe is not just another eatery; it is a beloved community hub known for its exceptional breakfast and lunch menus. With ingredients that are freshly sourced and individually prepared, each dish showcases a commitment to quality that is increasingly hard to find. The meat is expertly cut only after your order is placed, a testament to their dedication and the intimate dining experience they provide.

Customers rave about the extensive selection of gourmet sandwiches, homemade soups, and crisp salads. For instance, a standout option is the Ruben sandwich, celebrated for its perfect balance of flavors. Pair it with a cup of the tomato mushroom soup for an uplifting meal, especially on a chilly day. The delightful bakery offerings are another highlight, though the selection may be modest compared to their savory counterparts, they never fail to impress.

The ambiance at Rudder's is equally inviting, featuring an outdoor deck perfect for enjoying meals al fresco. Guests have consistently appreciated the attentive and friendly service, emphasizing how it enhances the overall dining experience. From families enjoying a lunch together to couples on a romantic outing, Rudder's caters to everyone with warmth and sincerity.

With its prime location just minutes from the ferry to Put-in-Bay, Rudder's Cafe-Catawba serves as the perfect pitstop for a quick yet rewarding bite. Whether you're in the mood for a refreshing salad, hearty soup, or a lovingly crafted sandwich, this cafe is an embodiment of community spirit and culinary delight. Make it a priority to stop by on your next visit; you will undoubtedly leave with a satisfied palate and plans to return.