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Benny Vito's Original Margaritaville - Sandusky, OH

4.6
·491k reviews·,

A seasonal waterfront haunt offering Tex-Mex and smokehouse fare with a vibrant Key West vibe and live music. Enjoy views of a waterfall.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Wed/Fri 18-21h

Blue hour photography, calmer galleries

CrowdLow
view from our table

Benny Vito's Original Margaritaville - Sandusky, OH

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A seasonal waterfront haunt offering Tex-Mex and smokehouse fare with a vibrant Key West vibe and live music. Enjoy views of a waterfall.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Great atmosphere, great food, and best service this year!"

TIP

Weekday visits recommended

Visit during weekdays to avoid potential weekend crowds and enjoy a more relaxed dining experience.

Best seating options

Opt for window seats overlooking the waterfall or the bar for potentially quicker service.

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Quick Facts

Open·Closes 9PM

Cuisine

Tex-Mex, American, Smokehouse

Price

Mid-range

Phone

(567) 877-2001

Address

212 Fremont Ave, Sandusky, OH 44870, USA

Insta-Factor

Medium

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Waterfront Dining with a Waterfall View

Waterfront Dining with a Waterfall View

Enjoy Tex-Mex and smokehouse fare with scenic ocean views from a festive seasonal deck, complete with a waterfall backdrop.

Restaurants Near Cedar Point Amusement ParkList of best patio outdoor dining in northwest OhioCrush Wine Bar - Sandusky, Ohio+2
Key West Vibes and Live Music

Key West Vibes and Live Music

Experience a lively Key West atmosphere with smokehouse favorites and live bands playing on weekends.

Restaurants Near Cedar Point Amusement ParkGoogle Review
Unique Appetizers

Unique Appetizers

Don't miss out on creative starters like the unforgettable bacon-wrapped dates and flavorful chorizo corn cakes.

Google Review
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Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Weekday visits recommended

Visit during weekdays to avoid potential weekend crowds and enjoy a more relaxed dining experience.

Best seating options

Opt for window seats overlooking the waterfall or the bar for potentially quicker service.

Half portions for kids

Consider half-order options for kids to save money while still enjoying generous portions.

Check live music schedule

Enjoy added entertainment by checking out live music events typically held on weekends.

Tips

from all over the internet

Weekday visits recommended

Visit during weekdays to avoid potential weekend crowds and enjoy a more relaxed dining experience.

Best seating options

Opt for window seats overlooking the waterfall or the bar for potentially quicker service.

Half portions for kids

Consider half-order options for kids to save money while still enjoying generous portions.

Check live music schedule

Enjoy added entertainment by checking out live music events typically held on weekends.

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

The Original Margaritaville receives praise for its unique waterfront setting, often highlighted by its waterfall feature and lively atmosphere, especially with live music on weekends. While many enjoy the Tex-Mex and smokehouse fare, particularly appetizers like bacon-wrapped dates, some reviewers have noted inconsistencies in service and food quality. Moderate pricing and the option for half-orders are also appreciated aspects.

"Go check it out for yourself!! We are foodies and it was great!!! Bacon wrapped dates are to die for (watch for toothpicks). Chorizo corn cakes are calling me back. The queso, chicken nachos and burger in paradise had everyone else pleased. Pleasant staff, didn’t take long and I LOVE places that give you half order options especially if we take our kids! Under $55 to fully feed 3 adults is good in this area!!! Could have fed a 4th or a few kids, half orders are still large."

Jennifer B

"This place was so good we went back two days in a row. Mexican/American bar food menu, quick food service, and friendly staff. Extremely reasonable prices. Free chips and salsa were tasty, the queso dip was thick and flavorful, and I can personally vouch for the burrito, the tacos, the burger on a tortilla, and the chicken sandwich. Veggies were fresh and food came out hot (and very quickly both times). They also have tons of outdoor seating if that’s what you like, but we sat inside to enjoy the cold air. Bonus, we sat at a table next to a huge window in front of a small waterfall. Added bonus, the fries were fantastic. Very different from what I’m used to, a flatter wide cut fry with a hint of seasoning. An absolutely PERFECT break for food and air-conditioning from Cedar Point. This will probably be my go-to for an amusement park launch from now on."

Miriam Sokoloff

"Nice date night spot to have some dinner by the waterfall, or just for a drink at their bar. Good service, and great food."

Kevin Richardson

What People Like

Scenic waterfront dining with waterfall views
Key West vibes and weekend live music
Unique appetizers and reasonable prices

What People Dislike

Inconsistent service
Occasional lackluster food quality
Limited menu options

Frequently Asked Questions

The restaurant boasts a unique waterfront setting with a waterfall view, Key West vibes, and live music on weekends, offering Tex-Mex and smokehouse dishes.

Restaurants Near Cedar Point Amusement ParkList of best patio outdoor dining in northwest OhioGoogle Review+1

Yes, there is an expansive seasonal waterfront deck offering great views, perfect for enjoying the atmosphere.

Restaurants Near Cedar Point Amusement ParkList of best patio outdoor dining in northwest OhioCrush Wine Bar - Sandusky, Ohio

The menu features Tex-Mex favorites like fajitas, nachos, and tacos, alongside smokehouse fare such as ribs and burgers.

Restaurants Near Cedar Point Amusement Park

Yes, the restaurant offers half-order options, which are still generous in portion size, making it a good choice for families.

Google Review

Visiting during weekdays is recommended to avoid potential weekend crowds.

Yes, live music is a regular feature on weekends, adding to the lively atmosphere.

Google Review

Popular items include bacon-wrapped dates, chorizo corn cakes, fajitas, nachos, enchiladas, and tacos.

Restaurants Near Cedar Point Amusement ParkGoogle Review

Prices are considered reasonable, especially given the portion sizes and the overall experience.

Google Review+1

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Located on Route 6, just outside of Sandusky and Cedar Point, Margaritaville has been a summer favorite for decades. This restaurant serves smokehouse fare, has a Key West feel, and huge patio with live music on the weekends. There's even a waterfall.The menu features fajitas, a variety of nacho combinations, enchiladas and tacos, and American burgers.

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Bay Harbor Waterfront Dining & Famous Dave’s Legendary Pit Bar-B-Que, Sandusky – Both located at Cedar Point’s marina, these diverse eateries offer plenty of outdoor space overlooking the water. Famous Dave’s is a barbecue chain known for its meals served family style and Bay Harbor specializes in steaks and seafood.

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Highlights: Although this is not affiliated with the Jimmy Buffet brand, The Original Margaritaville offers a variety of food items from salads and tacos to burgers and, of course, margaritas. The building is located next to a small waterfall that is visible from both the outdoor patio and indoor dining room.

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The Orginal Margaritaville has been a favorite of those looking for a fun, relaxed atmosphere. Take to the deck with drinks and live music, or dine indoors. Either way, enjoy wonderful views of the creek.

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And after your visit, enjoy an excellent meal at The Original Margaritaville in Sandusky, Ohio. And here are some more fun attractions in Cleveland.

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Where to eat in Sandusky?

I suggest Margaritaville; not the one thats now in the old Chi Chi's on 250, but the one that is on Rt. 4 or 6. Great view great food.

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