The 43-year-old executive chef of Astoria in Cleveland’s Gordon Square Arts District got his start balancing restaurant work and life as a touring musician, eventually trading saxophone solos for saute pans. Nearly two decades later, he’s still making art, but this time through bold, Mediterranean-inspired dishes at one of the city’s standout spots. From building Astoria from the ground up to staying plugged into Cleveland’s local food and music scenes, the Seven Hills native blends passion, flavor and community into everything he does.
(Heidi M. Rolf)
Around the Corner: I would say my favorite spot around here is Good Company in Detroit-Shoreway. Their wings are unmatched. They do a phenomenal job there. And that’s kind of to a fault, where if I find a spot that impresses me, I’m going there all the time. Sometimes I miss out on all the other wonderful places around the area because I’m just so pigeonholed. These guys are fabulous.
Easy Morning: I’ll go to Cleveland Bagel Co., and Larder (both in Ohio City) is always a quick stop. You know what you’re going to get. Their pastrami is just unmatched. Those are just two easy spots that are right on the way to work. If we’ve been having a good week at work — high energy, high positivity — we’ll run to Larder to get some sandwiches and do a staff, family meal.
(Courtesy Strip Steakhouse)
Out & About: Usually when I’m going out, I either want to try new things and just see what the chef is doing or just get an amazing protein. I always love going out to Strip Steakhouse in Avon. Their menu is wonderful. Their cuts are amazing, and the biggest thing, for me, is the staff there. That’s what pulls me in every time. Their bar manager is just so knowledgeable and makes you feel at home. The owner, Ron Larson, is in that kitchen every night on expo, and it’s just impressive to see how that staff works in the kitchen. It’s just a great, well-oiled machine to watch operate. You never leave without a full stomach. It’s amazing.
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(Maya Holtzman)
New in Town: Rood in Lakewood is probably one of my new favorite spots in town. I just absolutely love the atmosphere there. Chef Josh Erickson, his flavor combos are impressive. Just getting to know the man over the last couple of years, he’s someone who will push you to become better at your craft. Every pie they have is incredible. I’m a big fan of the shrimp and grits on their menu, but they have a pretty good rotating menu. It’s constantly changing.
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Cocktails: I go to Porco (Lounge & Tiki Room) in Tremont quite often or I’ll go down the street to Old 86 (Detroit-Shoreway). They always have an inviting atmosphere.
Special Occasions: I go to Cordelia Downtown. Chef Vinnie Cimino over there, he’s unbelievable. I like to just sit at the chef’s table and pick through the menu. I love their little burger trio too. And the pot pie that they have, oh my gosh.
Musical Roots: I love the smaller venues like the Grog Shop (Cleveland Heights) and Beachland Ballroom (Waterloo Arts District) and The Roxy that just opened up in Lakewood not too long ago. I’m a big fan of The Winchester Music Tavern. And then of course, I grew up with the Agora (Central) and the House of Blues (Downtown).
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