Overview

The Dirty Oar is a vibrant bar and grill nestled along the serene shores of Buckeye Lake in Thornville, Ohio. Its location at 11272 Avondale Rd offers guests a prime waterfront setting that perfectly complements the laid-back yet lively atmosphere inside. This spot naturally draws in locals and visitors looking for good food, refreshing drinks, and live entertainment all rolled into one inviting space.

What sets The Dirty Oar apart is its partnership with Hangry City Grill, bringing a dynamic menu focused on bold, hearty flavors. The slider meals, such as The Buffalo Bill—a fried chicken slider drenched in housemade buffalo sauce with bacon and blue cheese—showcase a creative take on classic bar fare. Alongside these, unique signature dishes like the BBC Fries and Oven Roasted Wings provide a satisfying mix of textures and spices, catering to those craving something both familiar and exciting.

For those seeking lighter fare, the salads like The Outlaw and The Samantha Jones add fresh, vibrant options with housemade dressings that balance the menu’s rich offerings. The appetizers also deserve mention, especially the Bone Nugz & Harmony, featuring white meat chicken nuggets paired with choice sauces that complement every bite.

The experience at The Dirty Oar is equally defined by its social scene. Live bands frequently grace the stage, enhancing the ambiance and encouraging a festive vibe among patrons. Guests praise the blend of great music, friendly service, and easy access to both parking and the water, making it a favored destination for regulars and newcomers alike. The presence of large TVs caters to sports enthusiasts, ensuring the energy stays high whether it’s game night or live entertainment.

Overall, The Dirty Oar appeals to a diverse crowd—from families and friends seeking casual dinners by the lake to groups hunting for a lively venue with excellent food and drinks. Its synergy of quality grilling, refreshing beverages, and a vibrant social environment makes it a standout bar and grill in the Buckeye Lake area.


Amenities & Services

Popular for
Solo dining
Offerings
Alcohol
Beer
Cocktails
Comfort food
Dancing
Food
Food at bar
Late-night food
Quick bite
Small plates
Spirits
Wine
Atmosphere
Casual
Trendy

What Customers Say

Shaun Arehart
Dec 3,2025
5/5
Great live band, plenty of people and shenanigans a foot. Food by Hangry City Grill was great, I got pulled pork on French fries!
Tammy Harrison
Dec 3,2025
5/5
Great band with great vibes, even in the rain. This is a great place to be at Buckeye Lake.
Sieanna Overcash
Dec 3,2025
5/5
If you've never tried Hangry City you must! There's one in Pickerington but they also serve food in The Dirty Oar. Good food, a nice view of the lake and great service. It's a win win!
Carson Clouse
Dec 3,2025
5/5
Cannot say enough good things. I have been to a lot of the local bars in the area. And this was one of the best! Service was great. Large TVs with the games on. And easy access from the parking lot and water.
Andrew Fodor
Dec 3,2025
5/5
Cool, chill place by the water. Live music, nice people.
Corey Taylor
Dec 3,2025
5/5
This place will take over Buckeye Lake!!! Very intimate place!!! They have food trucks and live music! This place is a must visit for your Sunday Funday and every other day!!!!!
Shane McGraw
Dec 3,2025
5/5
Excellent establishment, amazing food, & great customer service..Us at the Party Bus Bros can take care of all your party/transportation day of event all safe & sound. Kids are welcome also. We take many families w children all over.
Amy Jackson
Dec 3,2025
4/5
I was going to give it 3⭐ star but the bar is great! The Hangry City kitchen was a bummer. Hours posted for food are incorrect. out of items on Sunday lunchtime. They won't toss wings in sauce, just on the side which makes them mediocre at best. Maybe stop again just for drinks but won’t waste time or money eating here again. Very bad 1st impression and they (kitchen) could care less

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Location

Opening Hours

Monday Closed
Tuesday Closed
Wednesday Closed
Thursday 04:00 PM - 12:00 AM
Friday 04:00 PM - 12:00 AM
Saturday 12:00 PM - 12:00 AM
Sunday 12:00 PM - 08:00 PM
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