Rick Doody is never satisfied with the status quo. For the past three summers, JoJo's Backyard has bloomed behind JoJo's Bar in Chagrin Falls. The suburban oasis beckoned guests with its posh décor, outdoor kitchen and secluded setting where diners enjoyed grilled-to-order items such as steaks, chops, ribs and kebabs.
Recently, Doody and company have tweaked the space and concept, replacing it with Bar Fuoco. The vibe is decidedly more relaxed, casual and chill, with a walk-in-friendly atmosphere ideal for spontaneous gatherings, full meals or after-dinner drinks.
The wood-fired Argentinian grill is still firing, but a new outdoor pizza oven adds another layer to the offerings. A breezy Mediterranean menu offers light bites like fire-roasted shishito peppers, burrata with grilled bread, and chilled Tuscan tomato and bread soup. A half dozen 12-inch "pizzettes" arrive with shears to be cut, passed and shared. Skewers are threaded with a choice of marinated chicken, prime beef, shrimp or veggies and grilled to order. Salads and sides are joined by lobster rolls, steak sandwiches and a few large plates starring grilled salmon, grilled snapper and grilled shrimp.
Doody, owner of 17 River, Cedar Creek Grille, The Lakehouse and Bar Italia, will soon unveil his latest project. Cafe Lola, which is set in the former home of Bell & Flower in Chagrin Falls, will be styled after a classic American bistro.
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