x
Breaking News
More () »

Cedar Point opens 2 new restaurants for 2019 -- and one of them serves shrimp that's fried with funnel cake batter: First look

We take a sneak peek inside Hugo's Italian Kitchen and BackBeatQue.

SANDUSKY, Ohio — Cedar Point is definitely known around the world for its elite lineup of record-breaking roller coasters.

But the Sandusky amusement park is more than just rides.

The park's evolution throughout the last several years has also made Cedar Point a foodie destination.

This year is no different as two new restaurants open their doors. How does shrimp that's fried in funnel cake batter sound? We'll get to that later...

►GUIDE | Everything new at Cedar Point in 2019 

Park officials invited Channel 3's Ryan Haidet to explore the new eateries for a special sneak peek Wednesday before the park opens for the season this weekend.

First up... Hugo's Italian Kitchen. This restaurant replaces the long-standing Midway Market near the park's main entrance. 

The menu features traditional Italian foods, including hand-made pastas, brick-oven pizzas, chicken Parmesan sandwiches, salads, meatball sandwiches and desserts.

See photos from Hugo's Italian Kitchen:

MORE | Cedar Point reveals surprise new attraction for 2019: Monster Jam Thunder Alley

But that's not all...

Cedar Point actually removed one of its rides -- the Witches' Wheel -- to make room the new BackBeatQue eatery, which sits in the shadows of the Magnum XL-200 roller coaster near the Gemini Midway.

MORE | Cedar Point announces changes to 2 roller coasters: See what's in store for Magnum XL-200 and Cedar Creek Mine Ride in 2019 

“This new rock ‘n’ roll and Motown-inspired eatery will serve smoked brisket, rotisserie chicken, pork platters and fresh perch,” park officials explain. “Southern sides like okra, cornbread muffins and house-made macaroni and cheese will also be available.”

This is also the home of that unique funnel cake battered fried shrimp. Yes, it sounds strange, but it's absolutely delicious! Trust us.

Although there's no indoor seating at this location, BackBeatQue features outdoor patio tables with live performances from the "BackBeat Quartet."

OK... Now who's hungry?

Cedar Point opens for the season on Saturday, May 11.

See photos from BackBeatQue:

RELATED | Cedar Point to offer all-season Fast Lane Plus to skip ride lines for $849

Before You Leave, Check This Out