10 Takeout Ideas for Busy School Nights

“Shoutout to the chicken that didn’t defrost in time for dinner, allowing me to order takeout like I wanted to anyways. Not all heroes wear capes.”

Have you ever identified with this popular meme? Sometimes, despite the best intentions of cooking dinner, by the time you get home, help the kids with homework, manage the mundane tasks that keep a household running and get everyone ready to head off to activities, the idea of cooking and cleaning up seems insurmountable (or at least impractical). 

Fortunately, quick dinners need not be limited to pizza, Chinese takeout or fast food hamburgers. If you are looking to shake up your takeout shortlist, here’s our roundup of some area favorites. Keep it handy and don’t be afraid to use it often, especially on busy school nights.

Charlies Restaurants

Locations in Toledo, Maumee and Swanton

This local, family-owned chain offers an expansive menu of Greek and American favorites, as well as breakfast served all day. Complete kits are also available to make up to six gyros at home. Order online ahead of time and pick up at the convenient drive through window.

J’Mae’s Home Cooking

3312 Glendale Ave.| 419-720-8222

This soul food restaurant offers a menu full of hearty, comfort classics like fried or baked chicken, catfish, mashed potatoes, black-eye peas, fried okra and gumbo. Don’t miss the rotating menu of cakes, cheesecakes and pies for dessert.

La Fiesta

Locations in Toledo and Maumee

Tacos, fajitas, burritos, nachos, enchiladas…order all your favorite Mexican dishes online to pick up from one of two convenient locations. Perfect for Taco Tuesday – or any other night of the week.

Rudy’s Hot Dog

Locations in Toledo

Take home classic American food such as hamburgers, chicken wings and hot dogs. They also serve breakfast all day. This local business was established in 1920 and now has six locations scattered throughout Toledo. 

Sebastiano’s Italiano Restaurant

4448 Heatherdowns Blvd. | 419-382-0615

Family-style takeout meals on Tuesdays and Wednesdays include a pan of pasta, salad and fresh baked ciabatta bread. The menu changes monthly with half and full orders available. Visit the website for menu specifics and ordering instructions. 

Sidelines

Locations in Toledo, Maumee, Norwalk, Lambertville, Perrysburg and Sylvania

Order online at Sidelines and take home burgers, pizza, sandwiches, salads and more. They have a large variety of appetizers to start the meal. Check out their kids menu which has several entrees and sides for kids to choose from.

Shawn’s Irish Tavern

Locations in Toledo, Waterville and Sylvania

Known for good food, healthy portions and friendly service, Shawn’s offers online ordering and takeout with a menu that includes classic pub food, pizza, salads, baked ciabatta sandwiches and even a traditional shepherd’s pie.

Tandoor of Toledo

2247 S Reynolds Rd.| 419-385-7467

Tandoor uses a traditional Indian oven made of thick clay to cook marinated meats, fish and seafood, as well as for baking tasty breads like naan, kulcha and paratha. The menu features authentic curries, biryani, vindaloo and vegetarian specialties. 

What the Fried Rice

2509 Oregon Rd., Northwood | 419-724-2370

WTF-R is a fast casual, Asian fusion restaurant offering fried rice, noodles, ramen and other stir fried dishes made to order. Gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan options are available. Finish off your meal with a boba tea or a smoothie.

Yama Japan Sushi & Hibachi

3330 W. Central Ave. Ste. A-3-C | 419-720-1180

With a mission to provide good, affordable Japanese food for all, Yama Japan offers takeout sushi and hibachi cooked foods with a variety of party platters to fit any budget.

Zane’s Lebanese Grill

4900 N. McCord Rd., Sylvania | 419-882-1796

A menu of Lebanese favorites includes bowls with rice, lettuce and protein and affordable platters that come with one or two meats, salad, grilled veggies, rice, hummus and pita bread. And don’t forget the baklava for dessert.