If you have never been to Ohio you might be convinced that it is just farms and fields-and you wouldn't be completely wrong. But in this great state we have huge cities, endless places to explore, and an abundance of suburbs (each with their own something special). In central Ohio, with a population of over 18,000, is Pickerington. Pickerington is home to many neighborhoods, schools, families, restaurants and stores. With the naked eye it may seem as though Pickerington just has chain restaurants, big-box retailers and nothing really special. But this suburban town is actually home to so many amazing local gems.

Herb'n Cafe

Open six days a week for lunch and dinner, as well as brunch on Sundays, Herb'n Cafe offers locally grown ingredients, naturally raised beef that is free of hormones and antibiotics, wild caught fish, cage free chicken and they do not serve any processed foods. It has a 4.9 out of 5 star rating on its Facebook page by its customers and has had much attention by the local media.

Address: 1252 Hill Rd N. Pickerington, OH 43147

Website:http://www.herbn-cafe.com

Froggy's Sweets & More

If you have a sweet tooth, Froggy's Sweets will be top on your list. Not only do they make custom cakes, but cupcakes, cookies, chocolates, old fashioned candies, pies, cake pops, donuts and so much more.

Address: 31 Hill Road S Pickerington, Ohio.

Website: http://www.froggyssweetsmore.com

Flutterby Ceramics

If you're in search of a fun and creative activity for the kids, a group of you and your friends or even for a date night, Flutterby Ceramics is perfect for you. Walk in anytime without a reservation, pick out your ceramic piece from hundreds of options, pick out your paint colors, sit down together, relax and paint your piece however you'd like with no time limit.

Address: 10701 Blacklick Eastern Road, Suite 200A Pickerington OH 43147

Website:http://www.flutterbyceramics.com

Omezzo Italian

"Chef Mohammad Zaman prides himself on serving up homestyle cooking your grandmother would be proud of – assuming your grandmother is Italian, that is." Open Wednesday-Sunday, Omezzo's has a wide range of menu items not limited to just Italian. Customers on Facebook have given them a 4.8/5 star rating and in 2013 was awarded the "Taste of Pickerington" award.

Address: 1755 Hill Road North Pickerington, Ohio 43147

Website:http://www.omezzoitalian.com

Chef T's Pub

New to Pickerington, and already at a 4.7/5 star rating on their Facebook page, Chef T's Pub has gotten a lot of attention for their comfort food with the chef, Todd Gross', twist and made from scratch food from fresh and local ingredients. It is open every day except Monday and they pride themselves on serving "everything you would not see at a chain restaurant".

Address: 19 N. Center St., Pickerington, Ohio 43147

Website: http://www.cheftspub.com

Monroe's Salon and Spa

If a relaxing day at the spa is more your speed, Monroe's Salon and Spa in downtown Pickerington will have you feeling pampered and refreshed in no time. Although the name (formally J Nicoles Day Spa and Salon) and management have changed recently, the staff and amazing service has remained the same. They offer salon, facial, nail, massage, eye lash extension, weddings/special occasions and hair removal services and give 20 percent off to new clients.

Address: 185 West Columbus Street Pickerington, Ohio 43147

Website:http://www.monroesbeautyspa.com

Funny Greek

Somewhat hidden on Hill Road next to the Shell gas station, Funny Greek serves food to cater to everyone of all ages. Obviously Greek is the specialty as well as the fan favorite, but they also serve a wide variety outside of that including a kids menu and the best seasoned fries you'll ever have. They have been rated a 4.9/5 stars on their Facebook page due to the amazing food and even more amazing staff.

Address: 1225 Hill Road #A Pickerington, Ohio 43209

Website: http://www.funnygreeks.com

AJ Wingburger

If can't decide what you're in the mood for, A & J Wingburger is a good go-to place. They serve Korean food that is highly raved about as well as breakfast, burgers and just about something for everyone including a full bar and are open 7 days a week.

Address: 1134 Hill Rd N, Pickerington, OH 43147

Olde Village Diner

If you want to eat homestyle cooking without actually cooking it yourself, the Olde Village Diner is where you should go. Open seven days a week for breakfast, lunch and dinner, they feature different homemade specials every day as well as eight varieties of homemade soups, Greek food, Cabbage rolls, and much more earning them a 4.4/5 star rating on their Facebook page. If you're going to give it a try be sure to take cash because they do not accept credit cards.

Address: 46 East Columbus Street Pickerington, Ohio 43147

Thai Paradise

Inspired by the traditional beauty of Thailand, Thai Paradise prides themselves on their Thai/ Chinese food, great customer service and appealing presentation of their fresh recipes seven days a week. They've been rated a 4.7/5 stars on Facebook by customers and have expanded to Athens, Ohio as well.

Address: 805 Hill Road North Pickerington, Ohio 43147

Website:http://thaiparadiseoh.com