If Dayton is known for its vibrant, historic neighborhoods, MacFarlane is certainly one of its best-kept culinary secrets. Tucked just west of downtown and bordered by West Third Street and Broadway Street, MacFarlane’s food scene is a blend of nostalgia, innovation, and unpretentious charm. Whether you’re a hungry local or an adventurous visitor, here’s your guide to savoring the very best of MacFarlane’s diverse dining.
The Heartbeat: West Third Street Eats
West Third Street is the artery running through MacFarlane, and it’s here that much of the neighborhood’s food action unfolds. The intersection with Broadway and nearby cross streets is dotted with flavor-packed stops.
- Smokin’ Bar-B-Que (200 E. Fifth St. – near Third and Broadway)
- Known all around Dayton for its legendary slow-cooked meats, Smokin’ Bar-B-Que is the go-to spot for authentic, hickory-smoked brisket, burnt ends, and pulled pork sandwiches. The flavor here is deep and rich—think finger-licking BBQ sauces, collard greens, and creamy mac ‘n’ cheese sides.
- *Price Range:* $10–$20 per plate
- *Why Go:* Laid-back, community vibe with counter service and picnic tables outside—perfect for a hearty lunch or relaxed dinner.
- Taquria Garcia Mobil Food Truck (Regular at West Third Street near Infirmary Road)
- Parked regularly along Third, Taquria Garcia brings MacFarlane the bold, fresh flavors of authentic Mexican street food. Expect tacos stuffed with perfectly seasoned carne asada, carnitas, or al pastor, plus homemade salsas that pack a punch.
- *Price Range:* $2–$12
- *Why Go:* It’s affordable, fast, and locals swear by the grilled elote and homemade horchata.
Soulful Comfort: Downhome Classics
- Goodies Black Restaurant (West Third near Broadway)
- A soul food staple, Goodies is beloved for its fried chicken, smothered pork chops, and soulful sides like collard greens and candied yams. The cornbread here is fluffy and addictive.
- *Price Range:* $8–$15 for entrees
- *Why Go:* This is comfort food in the truest sense—friendly staff and heaping plates make it feel like Sunday dinner every day.
- Cheryl’s Cookies & Café (2017 N. Gettysburg Ave, just north of MacFarlane)
- While technically steps outside MacFarlane’s border, Cheryl’s is a morning must. This retro café is famous for melt-in-your-mouth cookies, house-made cinnamon rolls, and a full breakfast menu.
- *Price Range:* $4–$12 for breakfast/lunch items; cookies by the dozen
- *Why Go:* The bakery aroma alone is worth a visit—and Cheryl is usually there to greet you herself.
International Flavors: Small Spots, Big Taste
- La Misión Mexican Restaurant (2018 W. Third St.)
- Tucked in a modest building, La Misión serves homemade tamales, burritos stuffed to the seams, and the most flavorful green chile chicken enchiladas in West Dayton.
- *Price Range:* $8–$16
- *Why Go:* Family-owned and operated, it’s a true hidden gem for those seeking genuine Mexican comfort food.
- Jubie’s Creamery Ice Cream Cart (Pop-up, look for it at West Third Block Parties)
- Jubilee’s, a locally owned creamery, sometimes brings their colorful ice cream cart to MacFarlane events and block parties. Flavors like Buckeye Fudge and Honey Lavender are irresistible.
- *Price Range:* $3–$7
- *Why Go:* Small-batch, inventive ice creams—catch it when you can!
Cozy Coffee & Sweets
- Broadway Joe’s Café (At the intersection of Broadway and Third)
- Warm up at this cozy corner café with locally roasted coffee, vegan-friendly pastries, and hearty breakfast sandwiches. The staff is known for remembering regulars by name.
- *Price Range:* $3–$10
- *Why Go:* A relaxing atmosphere with board games and local art make it a perfect weekend hangout.
- Divine Donuts (1941 W. Third St.)
- An old-school bakery, Divine Donuts crafts pillowy glazed donuts, apple fritters, and classic Long Johns. Come early—these treats often sell out by mid-morning!
- *Price Range:* $1–$8
- *Why Go:* No frills, just the best donuts in the neighborhood.
Food Traditions & Local Flavors
What sets MacFarlane apart isn’t just the dishes—it’s the food culture. Grilling out is a local tradition, with family BBQs and church fundraisers filling the air with smoky aromas on warm afternoons. Block parties often feature pop-up stands selling grilled Polish sausages, homemade soul food trays, and irresistible baked goods from neighborhood kitchens.
- *Don’t Miss:* The annual MacFarlane Community Day (usually held on West Third) is a feast of homemade chili, fried catfish, and pie contests judged by the neighborhood’s grandmothers. Even if you’re not a local, you’ll be welcomed like family.
Hidden Gems Worth The Hunt
- The Secret Soul Food Window (Ask at the corner of Euclid and West Third)
- Whispered about among locals, there’s a takeout window in the back of an unassuming corner store that serves up fried fish platters and fresh hot cornbread on Fridays.
- *Price Range:* $6–$10
- *Why Go:* You’ll feel like an insider—plus, the portions are generous and packed with flavor.
- RD’s Chicken and Fish (Mobile, usually near Broadway on weekends)
- A food truck legend in MacFarlane, RD’s crispy fried chicken and flaky fish sandwiches draw lines during lunch. Don’t skip the crinkle fries, dusted with their house spice blend.
- *Price Range:* $5–$12
- *Why Go:* It’s always hot, fresh, and packed with locals—aka, the real deal.
A Bite of MacFarlane, A Taste of Dayton
MacFarlane’s dining scene might not make the glossy magazines (yet), but it remains one of Dayton’s most authentic and delicious neighborhoods for those who know where to look. The food here is hearty, soulful, and full of stories—whether it’s classic BBQ, sweet donut-shop memories, or the spicy kick of street tacos, every plate comes with a side of neighborly warmth.
So next time hunger strikes, skip the chain restaurants downtown. Head west, venture up and down West Third and Broadway, and discover the unforgettable flavors of MacFarlane—the Dayton dining adventure you didn’t know you needed.