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Dinner, history and hospitality: Tozzi's on 12th delivers big flavor

Tozzi's on 12th: A Canton Icon Serving Up Timeless Flavor and Tradition

Nestled in the heart of Canton, Ohio, Tozzi's on 12th stands as a venerable institution, a culinary landmark that has been delighting locals and visitors alike for over a century. This family-owned restaurant, located at 4210 12th St. NW, embodies the essence of old-school Italian-American dining, where generous portions, bold flavors, and a warm, nostalgic atmosphere come together to create an unforgettable experience. Established in 1914 by Italian immigrant Anthony Tozzi, the eatery began as a modest tavern and has evolved into a beloved steakhouse and Italian restaurant, now run by the fourth generation of the Tozzi family. Its enduring appeal lies not just in its storied past but in its commitment to quality ingredients, time-honored recipes, and a sense of community that makes every meal feel like a family gathering.

The history of Tozzi's is as rich as its signature red sauce. Anthony Tozzi, who arrived in America from Italy in the early 1900s, initially opened a small bar and grill to serve the working-class neighborhood. Over the decades, it expanded, surviving Prohibition, economic downturns, and changing tastes. During Prohibition, the spot cleverly pivoted to serving non-alcoholic beverages and hearty meals, which helped solidify its reputation as a go-to spot for comfort food. By the mid-20th century, under the stewardship of Anthony's son, the restaurant gained fame for its steaks and Italian specialties. Today, managed by great-grandchildren of the founder, Tozzi's maintains its classic charm while subtly updating its offerings to appeal to modern palates. The walls are adorned with vintage photos, memorabilia from Canton's history, and nods to the Pro Football Hall of Fame, reflecting the restaurant's deep ties to the local culture. It's not uncommon to spot celebrities, athletes, or politicians dining here, drawn by the promise of privacy and exceptional fare in an unpretentious setting.

Walking into Tozzi's is like stepping back in time. The dimly lit dining room features dark wood paneling, white tablecloths, and cozy booths that encourage lingering conversations. The ambiance is upscale yet approachable, with a bar area that's perfect for casual drinks and appetizers. Service is attentive and personable, with staff who often know regulars by name and can recount tales of the restaurant's past. It's the kind of place where anniversaries are celebrated, business deals are sealed, and families create lasting memories over plates piled high with pasta and prime cuts of beef.

At the heart of Tozzi's allure is its menu, a celebration of big, bold flavors that honor Italian traditions while incorporating American steakhouse classics. Starters set the tone with options like the crispy fried zucchini planks, served with a tangy marinara dipping sauce that's made in-house from a family recipe passed down through generations. The zucchini is sliced thick, battered lightly, and fried to golden perfection, offering a satisfying crunch that pairs beautifully with the sauce's subtle sweetness and herb-infused depth. Another must-try is the stuffed banana peppers, filled with a savory mix of sausage, cheese, and spices, then baked until bubbly and topped with more of that signature marinara. For seafood lovers, the calamari is a standout—tender rings and tentacles lightly breaded and fried, accompanied by a zesty lemon aioli that cuts through the richness.

Entrees at Tozzi's are where the restaurant truly shines, emphasizing generous portions and high-quality ingredients. The steaks are a highlight, sourced from premium cuts and grilled to order. The filet mignon, for instance, arrives perfectly seared on the outside with a juicy, pink center, seasoned simply with salt, pepper, and a touch of garlic butter that melts into every bite. It's often paired with a baked potato loaded with sour cream, chives, and bacon bits, or a side of sautéed mushrooms in a red wine reduction. For those craving Italian fare, the spaghetti and meatballs is a timeless choice. The pasta is cooked al dente, topped with massive, hand-rolled meatballs made from a blend of beef, pork, and veal, simmered in a robust tomato sauce that's simmered for hours to develop layers of flavor from garlic, basil, and a hint of red pepper flakes. The lasagna, layered with ricotta, mozzarella, ground meat, and that same marinara, is baked until the edges are crispy and the center is gooey, evoking homemade comfort.

Seafood dishes also hold their own, with options like the broiled scrod, a flaky white fish topped with buttery breadcrumbs and lemon, or the shrimp scampi, where plump shrimp are sautéed in garlic, white wine, and olive oil, then tossed with linguine. Vegetarian options, though limited, include eggplant parmesan, breaded and fried eggplant slices layered with cheese and sauce, served with a side of pasta. Salads are fresh and substantial, such as the house salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a creamy Italian dressing that's tangy and slightly sweet.

No meal at Tozzi's is complete without exploring the dessert menu, which features classics like tiramisu—layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, mascarpone cream, and cocoa powder—or the cannoli, crisp shells filled with sweetened ricotta and chocolate chips. For something indulgent, the chocolate lava cake oozes warm fudge when cut into, paired with vanilla ice cream.

What sets Tozzi's apart is its ability to blend tradition with accessibility. Prices are reasonable for the quality—entrees range from $15 to $40—making it a spot for both special occasions and weeknight dinners. The wine list is solid, with Italian varietals and robust reds that complement the hearty dishes. In an era of trendy eateries and fusion cuisines, Tozzi's remains a bastion of authenticity, proving that sometimes the best flavors come from recipes that have stood the test of time. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a lifelong patron, a meal here is more than just food; it's a taste of Canton's heritage, served with a side of heartfelt hospitality. As the Tozzi family continues to steward this gem into its second century, it's clear that big flavor and enduring charm will keep drawing crowds to 12th Street for generations to come.

Read the Full The Repository Article at:
[ https://www.cantonrep.com/story/lifestyle/food/2025/08/13/venerable-tozzis-on-12th-serves-up-big-flavor/85580218007/ ]