Chef Vincent Morelli’s Favorite Cleveland Bites and Neighborhood Finds: Word of Mouth

Originally from Parma, Vincent Morelli never planned to be a chef, though food was always central to his Italian American roots. After time in Cleveland’s restaurant scene and New York’s fashion industry, he merged his love for food, art and design, opening Cent’s Pizza & Goods in Detroit-Shoreway in 2021 and bringing his Roberta’s-honed pizza craft home to Cleveland. “I learned to take inspiration from anything and everything,” he says.

In the Neighborhood: I have a couple of favorite spots on Lorain Avenue. The Judith has such a cool concept and some amazing people behind it. It’s Parisian and cozy; I usually get the tuna sandwich on Leavened bread. It hits all the right notes: salty, savory and it’s a satisfying quick bite. Duck Rabbit Coffee is another favorite; the aesthetic is great, and their coffee is always on point. My go-to order is an oat cortado, same at both places.

Italian Memories: I have a nostalgic relationship with Presti’s Bakery in Little Italy. Growing up, we’d always stop for cold slices. The artichoke and cheese slices are still my favorites. If I’m driving through the neighborhood, I’ll pop in for a quick snack every time.

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Delightful Desserts: My favorite desserts are ice cream or cheesecake. I love Mason’s Creamery in Ohio City. I’ll mix a sorbet or fruity flavor with something creamy, kind of like a peanut butter and jelly combo. And Larder (Delicatessen and Bakery) does a really good, classic cheesecake.

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Breakfast Bites: I usually get the bacon, egg and cheese from Cleveland Bagel Co. in Ohio City. Or if I want a cheap, easy breakfast sandwich, I’ll go to Johnny Hot Dog in Ohio City. Juneberry Table is my favorite sit-down breakfast spot. There, I get the breakfast burrito that has beef brisket, refried beans, peppers, mushrooms, lime rice, queso and is topped with a fried egg. I prefer a savory breakfast.

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