Kiln Chef Griffen Stephens’ Go-To Spots for Dining in Cleveland: Word of Mouth
The chef brings a passion for French cuisine to Van Aken District while drawing inspiration from the Cleveland foodies, restaurants and sense of community that brought him here.
by Christina Rufo | Oct. 1, 2026 | 5:00 AM
Photographed by Christina Rufo
For Griffen Stephens, 29, cooking has always been rooted in community. The Chagrin Falls native started in kitchens at 15 before studying at Ballymaloe Cookery School in Ireland and cooking in London. Back in Cleveland, he sharpened his skills at Aurelia and Zhug before helping open Kiln in the Van Aken District. Today, technique, collaboration and hospitality shape his approach in the kitchen.
Ohio City Obsessions: I enjoy walking over to Jaja in Ohio City. I live right around the corner and love sitting at the bar, sharing a couple of small plates and taking in the great view of the city. For lunch, I go to Herb’n Twine. They have the best sandwiches in Cleveland. I get the Italian every time. It comes with mortadella, capicola, salami, hot pepper relish, garlic mayo, lettuce, tomato and onion.
Special Occasions: I’m pretty sure I’ve gone to The Pompadour in Fairport Harbor for my birthday the past three years. It’s my favorite place to go for menu inspiration or to try something new. I enjoy their hospitality, and their menu is always unique and different. You would never expect a restaurant like that to be tucked away in Fairport Harbor, but it’s a beautiful place, and I really enjoy going whenever I can.
Breakfast Bites: My favorite breakfast spot is Martha on the Fly in Tremont. I usually get the Doris, which comes with a sausage patty, house-made egg patty, cheese and sunshine sauce, plus the cornmeal fries, which are to die for. They’re made with herbs and garlic and are light, fluffy and crispy. It’s my typical Sunday breakfast when I don’t really want to do anything afterward.
Next Door Neighbors: I’m pretty notorious for walking across the street to Tony’s Burger Shop and getting a smashburger for lunch. It’s easy, simple and delicious. Boom’s Pizza, as well, is a great place to go. I think their pizza is some of the best in Cleveland, and it’s right here in Van Aken, which is our advantage.
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Christina Rufo
Christina is a passionate reporter on Cleveland's culture and dining scene, compiling Cleveland Magazine's monthly dining guide. A graduate of West Virginia University's journalism school and the New York University Publishing Institute, her work celebrates the people, plates and parties that make Northeast Ohio shine.
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