Editor's Note: This article was published in January 2024. Prices and menu items are subject to change.
Amba
Why we love it: Chef Douglas Katz's Indian fusion restaurant impresses with small plates and cocktails. Try this: The grilled chicken tikka ($17) comes in a spicy, creamy sauce. 1430 W. 28th St., Cleveland, 216-417-6718, ambacle.com
Related: Amba Mystifies in Hingetown: Best Restaurants 2023
Courtesy Avo Modern Mexican
Avo Modern Mexican
Why we love it: The decor at this modern Mexican favorite is matched by the bright flavors of burritos, tacos, tortas and imaginative cocktails and margaritas. Try this: The Mexican pizza ($24) is made on a flattop grill with
two extra-large flour tortillas. Order it traditional style with house made enchilada sauce, refried black beans, chihuahua cheese, ground beef and heirloom pico de gallo, served with a side of sour cream and topped with fresh cilantro. 2058 W. 25th St., Cleveland, 216-331-4024, avo-ohiocity.com
Beet Jar Juicebar and Takeaway
Why we love it: This hip grab 'n' go features a 100% vegan concept poised to push the culinary world forward. Try this: The Bravocado sandwich ($10) is an elevated take on avocado toast with smoked coconut, a house-made cashew mayo, red onion, a spring vegetable mix and, of course, avocado. 1432 W. 29th St., Cleveland, beetjar.com
Bartleby
Why we love it: This newer gem in the former Crop Bistro space gives haunted library vibes with a grand-vaulted ceiling, whimsical floral wallpaper and gold framed mirrors. It all centers around a lush tree and a simple American menu focusing on steaks, seafood and pizza. Try this: The salmon ($32) makes for a multi-layered delectable dish served with toasted couscous, Marcona almonds, currants and yogurt, garnished with parsley mint. 2537 Lorain Ave., Cleveland, 216-417-2224, bartlebycleveland.com
Related: Bartleby Boasts Excellent Pizza and Midwesterner's Seafood Menu in Former Crop Bistro Space
Boaz Fresh Lebanese
Why we love it: From the local family company behind Aladdin’s Eatery, this build-your-own bowl spot focuses on simple, scratch-made Mediterranean cuisine. With ingredients seasoned and spiced with traditional flavors, such as sumac and za’atar, you’ll also find soup, Lebanese appetizers and rolled pitas. Try this: Build your own bowl ($10.79+) with a base of greens, lentils and brown rice or just rice, a protein and top with any fixings of choice. 2549 Lorain Ave., Cleveland, 216-458-9225, boazfresh.com
Bright Side
Why we love it: Longtime Belgium-inspired Bier Markt reimagined itself into this stunning, bar-forward concept with pink and green decor. Despite retaining classic items, the new restaurant takes a lighter approach with cocktails, flatbreads and dishes that celebrate local, seasonal veggies. Try this: The famous pommes frites ($14) crafted with crispy duck schmaltz potatoes served with rosemary and crushed garlic and dipping sauces like garlic and gochujang chili aioli. 1948 W. 25th St., Cleveland, 216-274-1010, brightsidecle.com
Related: First Look: Bright Side, Which Opens Friday, Sparkles on West 25th Street
Courtesy Cent's Pizza + Goods
Cent’s Pizza + Goods
Why we love it: Vincent Morelli’s Ohio City pizzeria lands somewhere between a retro, classic pizza shop and modern European eatery, slinging top notch wood-fired pizzas. Buy elevated knickknacks and tees in the front space before munching and sipping, while watching a movie on the projector, or enjoying the rustic secluded string-light patio. Try this: The wood-fired puffy Wonder Bread ($6) with sea salt and heavenly house cultured butter ($2). 5010 Lorain Ave., Cleveland, 216-862-6427, centspizza.com
Great Lakes Brewing Co.
Why we love it: When you think of Cleveland beer, this brewery tops the list. The iconic brewpub and brewery is known for being the first microbrewery in the state. Eco-friendly practices occur behind the scenes of this purveyor of Christmas Ale, while it whips up basic American comfort eats featuring locally sourced seasonal ingredients in a charming historic traditional brewery with all your favorites on tap. Try this: True Clevelanders share the sausage sampler ($18), a spread of sausages from Ohio City Provisions and J&J Czuchraj Meats, sauerkraut, sautéed onions and pickles, served with mustard. 2516 Market Ave., Cleveland, 216-771-4404, greatlakesbrewing.com
Related: 25 Best Sports Bars in Cleveland
Hansa Brewery
Why we love it: Hansa brewery, restaurant and specialty shop looks like it’s straight out of an old-fashioned German Village with an ornate iron gate welcoming you in and a wooden industrial interior with German murals, flags and lots of charm. A long bar has plenty of German beers on tap — perfect for building a flight. Sit on the patio with a stein or take home some imported cheeses, meats, bread or beer. Try this: The original wiener pork or turkey wiener schnitzel ($18.50), served with house vegetables and a choice of home fried potatoes, fries or spaetzle, is a must-try. 2717 Lorain Ave., Cleveland, 216-631-6585, hansabrewery.com
Related: Cleveland's 25 Best Italian Food Spots
Hecks
Why we love it: With three locations, Heck’s has become a Cleveland staple that’s classic yet trendy. The write-home-about burgers highlight an all-American menu. This original location is an open-air concept filled with plants and covered in tile. Try this: An ode to one of its other locations, The Avon Burger ($17), is a balanced taste sensation featuring balsamic candied onions, blue cheese, truffled potato sticks and baby arugula. 2927 Bridge Ave., Cleveland, 216-861-5464, heckscafe.com
Herb’n Twine Sandwich Co.
Why we love it: This gourmet to-go sandwich shop, housed in a small rustic industrial space, is so adored that it regularly sells out and the bread is made daily. Try this: This isn’t your ordinary smoked turkey club ($12). The balanced sandwich begins with house smoked turkey breast and is topped with Gouda cheese, spinach, maple smoked bacon, marinated onion, sun dried tomato and mayo. 4309 Lorain Ave., Cleveland, 216-465-9600, herbntwine.com
Marina Goldi
Jaja
Why we love it: In the room of rooms, Jaja is a mystical combination of feminine, whimsical, lush, almost Parisian decor, with a massive retractable roof acting as the main fixture of this Argentinian and Mediterranean steak and small plates gem (with fancy inventive cocktails). The fancy component of the new Intro Apartment building has
impressed since first opening its doors in 2022. Try this: Executive chef Brian Whalen recommends the balanced dish of raviolo ($18), crafted with handmade pasta (three ravioli), with herb ricotta filling. “We drop an egg yolk into the center of it and cut our own raviolis out, and top with cacio e pepe compound butter and serve with a bright citrus gremolata” (parsley, cilantro, shallot, garlic, zest and juice from oranges, limes and lemons). 2050 Gehring Ave., Cleveland, 216-998-5353, jajacleveland.com
Related: Jaja Brings Latin American Steakhouse Concept to Cleveland's Intro Building
Johnny Mango World Cafe & Bar
Why we love it: Long-running Johnny
Mango World Cafe & Market is your go-to for casual neighborhood eats in a funky fun dining area showcasing colorful artwork and a maze of greenery. Dig into the wholesome Mexican, Asian and Caribbean-inspired food and drink, including a juice bar with fresh to order juices, sodas and shakes made with locally grown fruits and vegetables. And don't skip the restaurant's impressive happy hour offerings. Try this: Go for the Bangkok BBQ chicken ($16), four delicious (zesty) chicken thighs seared over red hot coals, then quenched with sweet garlic sauce. This one’s meant to be eaten with your fingers. 3120 Bridge Ave., Cleveland, 216-575-1919, jmango.com
Courtesy Le Petit Triangle Cafe
Le Petit Triangle Cafe
Why we love it: You’ll feel like you’ve flown to France when you enter this quintessential Parisian cafe with classic decor (cafe chairs, checkered floor and wooden bar) in this vibrant extension of your living room. Sip on an espresso, or munch on a croissant or your favorite traditional French delicacy for breakfast or lunch served on a white linen tablecloth (bonus if you also order a bottle of French wine). Try this: Opt for the French classic boeuf bourguignon ($19) stewed with red wine, bacon, wild mushroom pearl onion, mirepoix and roasted potatoes.1881 Fulton Ave., Cleveland,
216-281-1881, lepetittriangle.com
Nano Brew Cleveland
Why we love it: One of Sam McNulty and Mark Premier’s West 25th staples featuring brunch, a large beer garden, trivia and puppy hour. With a homey, bicycle friendly brewpub feel, the popular spot offers all its own brewed beers and locally sourced bar fare. Try this: Order the Nano Classic ($8) featuring a fresh, four-ounce smashed Angus beef patty on a buttered bun with American cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion and Nano sauce.1859 W. 25th St., Cleveland, 216-862-6631, nanobrewcleveland.com
Market Garden Brewery
Why we love it: In the heart of West 25th Street’s booming restaurant district, next to the West Side Market, this one of Sam McNulty and Mark Premier’s ventures stands out for its neighborhood vibes (three fireplaces, a leafy beer garden and three bars), chef-driven seasonal gastropub menu by Chef Andrew Bower, and a rather large award-winning craft tap beer selection. The 35,000 square-foot production brewery houses the brewhouse, tasting room, and brewery tours as well. Try this: “I’m a huge fan of the spicy pepperoni that comes topped with hella Ohio pepperoni ($20),” says McNulty, of his pizza served with pickled jalapenos, red sauce, aged cheese blend, pecorino, Calabrian chili honey and parsley.1947 W. 25th St., Cleveland, 216-621-4000, marketgardenbrewery.com
Nate’s Deli & Restaurant
The family-owned Mediterranean deli and restaurant that has been around since 1988 quickly whips up fresh Lebanese specialties and American deli sandwiches, desserts, soups, salads and beyond with a friendly, humble ambiance inside a simple space with an inviting traditional red awning entrance. Try this: Cozy up in a booth and start the table with tabbulee ($7.25) made in house with freshly chopped parsley, tomato, onion, bulgur wheat, mixed with olive oil and lemon juice. 1923 W. 25th St., Cleveland, 216-696-7529, natesohiocity.com
Ohio City Burrito
Why we love it: Local tortillas, house made sauces and house ground chorizo: Fresh ingredients make this colorful taco and burrito shop stand out. All the meats are rubbed down and marinated for 24 hours, then slow cooked overnight for 8-10 hours and hand shredded. Try this: The taco Mexicanos ($9), a trio of authentic street tacos made with barbacoa, with chopped onion, fresh cilantro and lime. 1844 W. 25th St., Cleveland, 216-664-0908, ohiocityburrito.com
Old Angle Tavern
Why we love it: With live music, a handsome stone and wood interior, and gastropub cuisine, this old school neighborhood Irish tavern is housed in a revitalized historic hardware shop, making for a casual hangout spot for friends. Try this: Pair your favorite Irish whiskey with a unique The D’Angle sandwich ($14), prepared with homemade corned beef on rye with Swiss, slaw and house mustard, served alongside fries and a house pickle. 1848 W. 25th St., Cleveland, 216-861-5643, oldangle.com
Tiffany Joy Photography
Patron Saint Cafe + Bar
Why we love it: The warm ambiance and awe-inspiring architecture at this European all-day cafe and aperitvo bar is a stunner. With arched ceilings and European tiles paired with a menu of unique spritzes and cocktails, espressos and Italian-inspired cafe dishes, this newer addition to Hingetown stands out, making it the spot for a date with your laptop or a friend. Much of the menu's ingredients and produce are sourced fresh from local purveyors. Try this: Grab a seat by the window bar and enjoy a muffuletta salad ($10) with crunchy lettuce, salami and olive tapenade and marinated alpine cheese. 2915 Detroit Ave, Cleveland, patronsaintcle.com
Related: Patron Saint Embraces Wonderful Weirdness as Ohio City's All-Day Cafe
Courtesy Momocho
Momocho
Why we love it: Known for colorful margaritas and fresh guacamole flights, its seasonal authentic modern Mexican menu, the trendy dimly lit restaurant is housed in a historic building once used as a grocer that Chef Eric William decked out with unique Lucha Libre wrestler decor and murals. Try this: The plant-based flautas ($17) make for a beloved favorite, crafted with butternut squash, goat cheese, red chile and chocolate mole. 1835 Fulton Road, Cleveland, 216-694-2122, momocho.com
Pizza Whirl
Why we love it: After a night (or day) gallivanting down West 25th Street, step inside this relaxed pizza counter for a slice of two of classic American pizza, salads, calzones or other Italian delights. Or build your own basic or original pizza and sit down in a dining room with exposed brick and banquettes along the wall. Try this: The King ($17.99) is a carnivore’s dream with ham, meatballs, bacon, sausage, pepperoni and chicken, from the menu handcrafted with locally sourced ingredients. 1822 W. 25th St., Cleveland, 216-242-6464, pizzawhirltogo.com
Courtesy Real Smoq'ed BBQ
Real Smoq’ed BBQ
Why we love it: Locally sourced BBQ, sandwiches and other Southern dishes shine at this no-frills counter-service spot. All the flavorful meats are cooked low and slow with indirect heat contained within a rotating wood smoker using real woods like hickory, oak, cherry and apple for even cooking. Inspired by a trip to Memphis, Tennessee, the eatery (formerly known as Ohio City BBQ) opened in 2018 featuring 1960s and Elvis Presley paraphernalia. Try this: Mac Daddy ($15.50) has homemade mac and cheese topped with slow smoked brisket, with a signature BBQ sauce and dried onions straws. It's the way to have the best of both worlds with juicy meat and creamy carbs. 3829 Lorain Ave., Cleveland, 216-417-5987, realsmoqedbbq.com
Soho Chicken + Whiskey
Why we love it: With a 24-hour brine and simple buttermilk and seasoned flour dredge on the chicken, “the flavor that the brine imparts into the chicken is our unique signature, adding a depth of flavor into the bird,” says chef and owner Nolan Konkoski. Come for weekend brunch, Southern sandwiches, inventive seasonal cocktails and “suppers” in a warm dining room with exposed brick and a bar with an impressively long lineup of whiskey. Try this: Order the Evenin’ dinner ($21) with both a (juicy and crispy) breast and thigh, with seared green beans, house made mashed potatoes and bourbon gravy.1889 W. 25th St., Cleveland, 216-298-9090, sohocleveland.com
West Side Market Cafe
Why we love it: Shop the diverse world of local food and drink purveyors at 1912-built West Side Market and then rest your heels at this friendly cafe for a homestyle meal in a basic dining room with white subway-esque tiled walls and a dining counter. Cuisine here is prepared using many of the West Side Market’s fresh and local ingredients. Try this: Bite into the corned beef Reuben ($16) starring corned beef, Swiss cheese, Thousand Island dressing and slaw on grilled rye. 1979 W. 25th St., Cleveland, 216-579-6800, westsidemarketcafe.com
Courtesy Tripi Italian Specialties
Tripi Italian Specialties
Why we love it: Chef Anthony Zappola quietly debuted his delectable designer sandwich shop in 2023, that also serves homemade pizza, salad and pasta inspired by his Sicilian heritage. The team bakes delicious bread for subs and pizza dough daily. Inside you’ll uncover a no-frills space with industrial vibes, a colorful house mural and a collage of historic photos. Try this: Pile those meats high with the Papa Tony ($14), named after the owner’s granddad, featuring Genoa salami, hard salami, soppressata, capicola, provolone, lettuce and tomato on an Italian roll. 3928 Lorain Ave., Cleveland, 216-417-5511, tripicleveland.com
Related: Tripi Italian Specialties Is the Restaurant of Chef Anthony Zappola's Dreams
Xinji Noodle Bar
Why we love it: Most plates are sourced from local Northeast Ohio farms at this basic noodle haven serving up steaming ramen, dumplings and other Pan-Asian fare with recipes inspired by Ohio’s own flavors. A somewhat minimalist industrial yet warm dining area with wood and exposed brick, and a secluded brick patio, make for a relaxing setting. Try this: Warm up with the black garlic tonkotsu ($18), made with fresh pork broth that slow-cooks for 72 hours, with black garlic, menma, pork belly and pulled pork. 4211 Lorain Ave., Cleveland, 216-465-2439, xinjinoodle.com
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