El Hefe, nestled at 232 N Tuscarawas Ave in Dover, OH, is a delightful Italian restaurant that has quickly become a local favorite. Diners rave about the unique offerings, particularly the Baci Pasta, rich with a four-cheese blend and a robust red pepper sauce, and the chicken Alfredo, which adds a flavorful twist with sautéed mushrooms. Customer reviews reflect an endearing charm, with Chef Tony's friendly demeanor making a lasting impression. Patrons have highlighted dishes like the Kabob Special, which combines shrimp, chicken, and steak skewers served alongside a vibrant penne pasta in marinara—a perfect sharable lunch. Many have noted the generous portion sizes and the emphasis on fresh, homemade ingredients. The service is characterized as attentive, with servers eager to recommend favorites and ensure a pleasant dining experience. Despite some concerns about parking—limited but manageable—the overall sentiment is one of enthusiasm. From the savory flavors to the inviting atmosphere, El Hefe stands out as a hidden gem in the area. Whether for a casual lunch or a cozy dinner, this venue promises a fulfilling meal that beckons you to return.
Amenities and More
Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible car park
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Has wheelchair-accessible seating
Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
Service options
Offers delivery
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
Highlights
Has fast service
Serves great cocktails
Good for watching sport
Popular for
Popular for lunch
Popular for dinner
Good for solo dining
Offerings
Serves alcohol
Serves beer
Serves cocktails
Serves coffee
Serves comfort food
Serves food
Serves small plates
Serves spirits
Serves vegetarian dishes
Serves wine
Dining options
Serves lunch
Serves dinner
Serves dessert
Has seating
Amenities
Has bar on site
Has toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Crowd
Family friendly
Good for groups
Planning
Accepts reservations
Payments
Accepts credit cards
Children
Good for kids
High chairs available
Has kids' menu
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Photos
Reviews For El Hefe
ecm girl
May 8,2025
Delicious. The portobello bruschetta is always good. Also, the chicken Alfredo is unique with the mushrooms, but it’s good. The parking is horrible though. There’s only a small amount in the back; Krocker’s has the majority and you can’t park in the Eagles lot. They have a good amount of gluten free pasta options too if that’s a concern.
Crimson Chef
Apr 5,2025
We stopped in for lunch before going to the Warther Museum. We met Tony who owns and runs the place. He's a very friendly and nice man. We asked why a place with a Spanish name serves Italian food. He is originally from Mexico, but he work many years here in the States in Italian restaurants and he loves Italian cuisine. We ordered the Kabob Special. Three skewers one shrimp, one chicken, and one steak. Served with penne pasta in marinara, two house salads, and mashed potatoes. Its a sharable. It was perfect for a couple looking for a light lunch. The special, two drinks, tax and top, 40. Excellent pricing, good amount of food, excellent friendly service, TASTY authentic Italian flavors. Shrimp, chicken, and steak were cooked to perfection.
Bob C
Apr 3,2025
What a delight to find this hidden gem. Food was very good in all areas. Presentation to taste. Quantity was more than plenty. Service was very professional and knowledgeable of the menu selections. I will eat here again and again. Parking a bit tricky but available.
Camille Adams
Mar 28,2025
Wow! The food was ABSOLUTELY amazing!! It was our first time visiting this restaurant and we came on a Saturday night, dinner time. It was busy, but they were able to seat us right away (party of 2). The service was wonderful. Our server even mentioned that it was only her second night there on the job, but she was very attentive and kept our drinks full, etc. My husband ordered a steak, and it was cooked perfectly! My chicken and veggies were fantastic! It was so flavorful and the best carrots I ever had. This restaurant is a gem and a pleasant surprise. We will absolutely be back.
Rachel Baker
Mar 13,2025
This is a wonderful hidden gem! The food is fresh, and everything is made in house. The service was attentive and friendly. We will certainly be back! The whole table was enticed by the signature pasta dish, and we ordered the arancini and the new york style cheesecake as well. One of the best local meals we've had in the area.
Victoria Barker
Mar 5,2025
Hi! STOP WHAT YOU'RE DOING AND GO TO THIS RESTAURANT!! This was an incredible, random, hidden gem that we stumbled upon. The flavor is all there and service was great. Garlic bread, broccoli cheddar soup, shrimp scampi, sun dried tomato chicken sandwich, gnocchi with meat sauce, and baci pasta with chicken. All of it was so, so good. I cannot say enough about this place. The environment was so nice; seating was clean and fancy. The paintings and designs were unique. Our waitress, Emily, was sweet and attentive. The chef came out and greeted us and other guests!! This alone should tell you it's a personable place that takes its guests seriously and wants to make them happy. Highly recommend a desert too!
Kory Schaffner
Feb 27,2025
They were able to accommodate our party of 9 on very short notice. The food was great, service was awesome. This will be a regular stop for us when in New Phila
Tim Francisco
Feb 21,2025
Don't let the name fool you. It is an Italian restaurant and tavern. However, with the name and looking at some of the artwork on the walls inside, I believe they may eventually switch to a Mexican style menu. I am not sure of this though. There are TVs around the dining room with various sports programs on but they are not loud so you can have a nice quiet meal if you'd like. The food was fabulous. The service was excellent.
Reviews For El Hefe