Bearden’s
Why we love it: Since 1948, Bearden’s has been a cherished local institution, offering a nostalgic 1950s-style diner experience. The interior features classic blue chrome accents, vintage photographs and a toy train running on a track above, creating a fun atmosphere for all ages. Try this: Go for the signature Peanut Butter Bear ($8.34), a 4-ounce steak burger topped with melted creamy peanut butter and sweet pickles — a quirky yet delicious favorite. 19985 Lake Road, Rocky River, 440-331-7850, beardens.com
Big Mouth Donut Co.
Why we love it: This doughnut shop crafts handmade treats daily, with both vegan and gluten-free options available. Flavors range from jelly-filled, chocolate and glazed, and there are no wrong decisions. There’s plenty of seating, fun artwork, a large front couch and an old wooden doughnut display. Try this: The doughnut breakfast sandwich ($5) combines eggs, onions, peppers and cheese with your choice of bacon, sausage or veggies — all held between a baked doughnut bun. 19265 Detroit Road, Rocky River, 216-282-8228, bigmouthdonut.com
Char Whiskey Bar & Grille
Why we love it: This upscale American restaurant is a go-to date night destination, blending casual comfort and elevated dining. Featuring reclaimed wood and modern lighting, this gem is best known for its impressive whiskey selection — boasting more than 300 bottles — alongside a stellar craft cocktail lineup and a three-sided bar. Try this: Sink your teeth into a local, grass-fed Char Burger ($18). Or, indulge with the Char Mac ($13-$28), a build-your-own mac and cheese loaded with add-ins. 19337 Detroit Road, Rocky River, 216-712-4591, char-rockyriver.com
Courtesy Danny Boys Pizza
Danny Boys Pizza
Why we love it: Since 1991, Danny Boys Pizza has offered a unique blend of Italian-American cuisine in a Frank Sinatra-inspired atmosphere. The walls are filled with fun memorabilia such as records, vintage movie posters, photos, bottles and more. The restaurant’s dedication to quality and consistency has made it a local favorite for decades. Try this: The Woogie ($12.99) is an original that blends the concept of a calzone and a stromboli. The Abe Froman Woogie is filled with ricotta, five-cheese blend, Italian sausage, green peppers, onions and marinara sauce. 20251 Lake Road, Rocky River, 440-333-9595, dannyboyspizza.com
Erie Island Coffee Co.
Why we love it: This cozy neighborhood cafe is a go-to spot for locally roasted coffee and fresh-baked goods. With blue walls, wood paneling and a wood-burning fireplace, it’s the perfect place to unwind with a latte. The cafe also supports local makers, hosting vendors who set up inside to sell handmade craft goods. Try this: Grab your favorite coffee at Erie Island’s drive-thru and keep rolling. The specialty macchiato lattes ($6) are always changing monthly, with flavors like maple honey bun and raspberry mocha. 19300 Detroit Road, Rocky River, 440-333-1510, erieislandcoffee.com
Gourmet Java Bistro & Pho
Why we love it: This hidden gem bistro offers a tranquil, oasis-like atmosphere where guests can relax and enjoy a unique blend of Mediterranean-inspired dishes, handcrafted pho and desserts, as well as specialty coffee and teas. This spot is designed to be a comforting escape from the everyday hustle. Try this: Start with a steaming bowl of signature pho ($25). The beef bone broth dish features rice noodles, three types of bok choy, sliced filet mignon and ribeye, cilantro, basil, sliced jalapeno and a collection of herbs and spices. Indulge in a reishi mushroom coffee ($9) for a midday boost of energy and wellness. 19056 Old Detroit Road, Rocky River, 440-444-8827, instagram.com/gourmetbistro1/
Herb’s Tavern
Why we love it: Established in 1963, this Austrian-English tavern has been a cherished neighborhood bar for generations. This cozy spot exudes nostalgic charm, featuring rustic decor and the owner's personal beer stein collection lining the walls. It’s the kind of place where community ties are strong, and memories are made over hearty meals that make you feel right at home. Try this: Start your weekend with brunch, served from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturdays and Sundays. Or, stop in a different time for a classic Au Jus Herb burger ($17.99), topped with Havarti cheese and bacon jam on grilled sourdough bread with au jus for dipping and fried onion straws. 19925 Detroit Road, Rocky River, 440-331-9870, facebook.com/herbstavernohio
Joe’s Deli & Restaurant
Why we love it: Stacked sandwiches, authentic Lebanese cuisine and hearty daily specials have made Joe's Deli a Cleveland institution since 1994. This family-run restaurant combines a spacious dining area, friendly service and variety to make it the perfect place to gather with family, friends or business associates. Try this: Indulge in the corned beef classic sandwich ($17.25), featuring tender corned beef piled high with Swiss cheese and sauerkraut on grilled rye bread. Looking for something unique? Try the Lebanese Delight ($16.25), a sampler platter with hummus, tabbouleh, two spinach pies and two grape leaves. 19215 Hilliard Blvd., Rocky River, 440-333-7890, myjoesdeli.com
King Wah Restaurant
Why we love it: A family-owned staple since 1973, this modern Asian-inspired restaurant blends tradition with a lively atmosphere. The red seat coverings, hanging Asian lanterns and warm lighting create an inviting space for both casual dinners and special occasions. At the full-service bar, guests can sip on Tiki-inspired cocktails like mai tais, zombies and the signature volcano drink, adding flair to the experience. Try this: The General Tso’s Chicken ($19), a crispy, breaded dish coated in a semi-sweet, semi-spicy sauce and served with broccoli, is the restaurant’s most popular item. 20668 Center Ridge Road, Rocky River, 440-331-0330, kingwahrestaurant.biz
Courtesy Ohio Pie Co.
Ohio Pie Co.
Why we love it: This carryout-only pizzeria brings an old-school vibe with black-and-white murals, neon signs and hand-painted window designs. Known for its signature Ohio-style pizza, the round pie's mid-thick crust has toppings that stretch to the edge, sweet sauce on top and a garlic oil drizzle. “We coined Ohio-style pizza when we opened in 2019. There’s no sauce underneath the cheese. It’s our own unique assembly,” says founder Nick Robson. Try this: The brunch pies ($14-$24) are available Saturdays and Sundays, 9 a.m. to noon. The everything bagel-seasoned crust is topped with a cream cheese white sauce, scrambled eggs, cheese, potatoes, bacon and peppers. 19565 Detroit Road, Rocky River, 216-353-7777, ohiopieco.com
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Old River Tap & Social
Why we love it: This lively gastropub offers comfortable dining and brings the energy with cornhole, shuffleboard and more. With brick walls, wood-accented chairs, industrial lighting, plenty of TVs, a patio and a private party room, it’s perfect for game days and celebrations. Try this: The Old River Steak ($28) bursts with flavor, featuring a 6-ounce petite filet served over leek mashed potatoes with roasted heirloom carrots, crispy oyster mushrooms and chimichurri sauce. 19245 Detroit Road, Rocky River, 440-857-0399, tapandsocial.com
Old School Pizza & Wings
Why we love it: With red-and-white checkered tablecloths, exposed brick walls and warm wood paneling, this laid-back spot delivers nostalgic pizzeria vibes. Plenty of open seating and a sizable bar make this a perfect place for family dinners and game-day gatherings. Try this: Start out with Stella’s Original Butter Cheesy Bread ($9), then dig into a deluxe pizza ($14.50) piled high with pepperoni, Italian sausage, mushrooms, green peppers, onions and black olives. 19071 Old Detroit Road, Rocky River, 216-712-4080, oldschoolpizzaandwings.com
Courtesy Rocky River Brewing Co.
Rocky River Brewing Co.
Why we love it: Established in 1998, this brewery has been a cornerstone of the community ever since. A laid-back, family-friendly atmosphere blends classic charm with a modern craft beer experience. The brewpub's interior stays true to its roots, with exposed brick, warm wood tones and historic photos sourced directly from the Rocky River Historical Center. Try this: The signature buckets ($11.50-$15.99) serve classic favorites. Loaded with a choice of crispy chicken tenders, saucy wings, mini burgers or chicken sliders, each bucket comes piled high with beer-battered fries for the ultimate shareable feast. “People ask all the time that they can take the buckets home, and I’m sure in the past 27 years, they’ve definitely been stolen,” says manager Claire McCaffrey. “We’ve thought about taking them off the menu, but we just can’t because people love them." 21290 Center Ridge Road, Rocky River, 440-895-2739, rockyriverbrewco.com
Courtesy Sakana Sushi Bar and Lounge
Sakana Sushi Bar and Lounge
Why we love it: Sakana stands out for its extensive menu that caters to diverse palates, including a full page dedicated to vegan options. The restaurant offers a vibrant dining experience that seamlessly blends traditional Japanese cuisine with modern Asian fusion. Featuring a beautiful bar dining area and a family-friendly main dining room, there is a notable selection of appetizers, wok entrees and sushi. Try this: Begin your meal with the Heart Attack ($8) appetizer, which includes lightly breaded jalapenos stuffed with spicy tuna and cream cheese, topped with spicy mayo and eel sauce. For the main course, the Hi-Roller ($28) 10-piece specialty roll has it all, with fried lobster, spicy crab salad, cucumber, soft shell crab, tempura shrimp, seared steak, tobikko sauce, yum yum, kabayaki and wasabi cream. 19300 Detroit Road, Rocky River, 440-857-0700, sakanacleveland.com
Salmon Dave’s
Why we love it: This upscale, nautically themed staple has been serving elegant seafood and steak dishes since 1993. The distressed brick walls, crown moldings and signature mahogany bar blend traditional charm and modern sophistication. With blue hues and close attention to detail, it’s perfect for special occasions or an intimate night out. Reservations are encouraged. Try this: The raw bar is a standout menu section. The chilled seafood tower ($49), features shrimp, crab and oysters Rockefeller. 19015 Old Lake Road, Rocky River, 440-331-2739, salmondaves.com
Stino Da Napoli
Why we love it: This family-run institution has been serving authentic Neapolitan cuisine for decades. Chef Agostino Iacullo and his wife, Jill, built this beloved spot from a small carryout business into one of Cleveland’s most celebrated Italian restaurants. The warm, intimate dining room transports guests to Naples, Italy, where everything — from the fresh pasta to the signature sauces — is made with passion and tradition. Try this: The Linguine Alla Sorrentina ($24) is a standout dish served with Gulf shrimp, mushrooms, fresh garlic, herbs and a light white wine sauce. Pair your meal with a selection of curated wine to enhance the authentic Italian flavors. 19070 Old Detroit Road, Rocky River, 440-331-3944, stinodanapoli.com
Josh Dobay Productions
Tartine Bistro
Why we love it: Celebrating 17 years, this Parisian-inspired bistro has candlelit tables, a cozy bar and a moody ambiance that's ideal for a romantic dinner or peaceful night out. The walls double as a rotating art gallery, curated by Hillary Gent from Hedge Gallery, with all pieces available for purchase. “You can literally buy the piece while you’re eating dinner,” says Sarah Migal, director of operations. Try this: The restaurant’s namesake is an open-faced sandwich on a sliced baguette, with the chicken tartine ($23) featuring apple, cranberry aioli and gruyere cheese. The roasted dates ($15) and beef tartare ($24) are additional favorites. The menu rotates four times a year, keeping things fresh and exciting. 19110 Old Detroit Road, Rocky River, 440-331-0800, tartinebistro.com
Thai Cravings
Why we love it: This spot brings authentic, from-scratch Thai cuisine to Rocky River, serving up flavorful dishes. Whether you’re dining in or grabbing takeout, its menu offers classic Thai favorites like spring rolls, stir-fries, noodles and soups. Try this: The satay chicken skewers ($10) are unlike anything in the area. The dish features grilled chicken breast marinated with coconut milk and curry, served with peanut sauce. 19900 Detroit Road, Rocky River, 440-895-0098, thaicravings.com
Westsiders
Why we love it: Bringing a Downtown dining experience to Rocky River, Westsiders blends chef-driven American cuisine with a stylish, approachable atmosphere. The space features a center bar, warm wood tables, green leather-wrapped booths and reclaimed art deco-era panels and metalwork from architecturally significant buildings in Downtown Cleveland, adding a touch of historic elegance. Try this: The menu changes seasonally with intentional detail. The pasta primavera ($23) is made in-house daily and served with campanelle, mushrooms and broccolini in a lemon cream sauce. 19880 Detroit Road, Rocky River, 440-488-9908, westsiders.com
Wine Bar Rocky River
Why we love it: This sophisticated yet inviting wine bar is a fit for everything from casual dining to special occasions. The interior blends modern decor with ambient lighting, high ceilings and cozy fireplaces. Seating is thoughtfully arranged to accommodate both small groups and larger gatherings, while the expansive patio offers a charming outdoor option. Try this: For a light bite, try the baked brie flatbread ($15) topped with triple cream brie, goat cheese, roasted garlic oil, local honey and chives. 1313 Linda St., Rocky River, 440-799-4300, rockyriverwinebar.com
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