The Best Things We Ate This Month: February

Kim Schneider, editor
Conforti’s Traditional Risotto ($6-$10)
I’ll eat anything Bar Oni chef/wizard Matthew Spinner spins out of his brain. So when he and chef and co-owner David Kocab announced their takeout- and delivery-only Italian spot in Tremont, it was game on. There’s so much right and comforting on the tightly curated menu. But it’s the risotto, which arrives piping hot, creamy and fragrant with plenty of nutty Grana Padano cheese on top, that scored points with me. 2173 Professor Ave., Cleveland, 216-334-9746, confortitogo.com

Arbela Capas, associate editor
Harlow's Margherita Pizza ($14)
Growing up in Europe, I was accustomed to thin-crust pizza, so I was overjoyed when I discovered Harlow’s opened right down the street from me. I always go for the trusty margherita pizza, made with San Marzano tomatoes, fresh basil and sea salt. The combination of simple ingredients, soft yet crisp crust and sauce just transports me back to a street cafe in Europe. 14319 Madison Ave., Lakewood, 216-712-6502, harlowspizza.com 

James Bigley II, managing editor
Kintaro’s Mercedes-benzes Roll ($13.95)
I’m overindulgent, so it’s no secret Kintaro is one of my favorite go-to spots for all-you-can-eat sushi ($15.99-$25.99). But if you want just one great roll, look no further than the decadent Mercedes-Benzes with spicy tuna, white tuna, cream cheese, jalapenos and crabmeat fried and topped with spicy mayo, wasabi sauce, eel sauce and sweet chili. 7325 North Cliff Ave., Brooklyn, 216-459-8862; 3111 Westgate Mall, Suite A128, Fairview Park, 216-912-8196, kintarooh.com

Dillon Stewart, associate editor
The Pompadour’s Braised short rib ($16)
After months of takeout, I was craving a dining experience like the Fairport eatery’s seasonal small plates menu. The braised short ribs, with smoky ancho chili mojo, pickled carrot and bed of sage polenta, had the types of flourishes that only shine next to expertly cooked beef that falls apart on your fork. 320 High St., Fairport Harbor, 440-639-0263, thepompadourbar.com