Lakewood
Lakewood is a town for foodies and cocktail lovers. But first, shopping. Some partners might go for Cleveland Curiosities, an oddities store with preserved animal skulls and taxidermied remains, while others might dig vintage game and toy shop Apple Jax Toys. When it’s time for supper, stroll over to Harlow’s, where you’ll find a romantic patio with string lights, Southwest decor, wood-fired artisan Neapolitan pizzas ($16+) and a boozy agua fresca ($10). Finish your night with the walk down Madison Avenue to Mahall’s, the 100-year-old bowling alley, music venue, bar and restaurant. The lower level, called Pins & Needles, offers craft cocktails and decor reminiscent of granny’s ‘70s basement, while the main bar features seasonally inspired beverages and cheap beer. “There’s a lot of charm in being able to have different experiences in the same destination,” says owner Cory Hajde.
Willoughby
Everyone looks better in the sunshine, which is why we’re starting your visit to this historic, walkable Downtown at The Yard on 3rd. Massive shareable cocktails, live music, food trucks and kitschy truck-themed decor make this a perfect boozy lunch. From there, keep it rolling with a spirit-free buzz from Kava Sol. “All of our drinks will give you the feeling without the alcohol. We call it a plant buzz,” says health cafe owner Lindsay Kronk. “We offer a tasting board ($29), where you can craft your own experience, which is really fun for a date.” Kill some time shopping at Etc. on Erie, a home decor boutique, or strolling through Wes Point Park before dinner at Hook & Hoof, where classic, American scratch fare, well-loved seafood dishes, an impressive whiskey collection and intimate, dim-lit decor is perfect to send you into the night.
Tremont
Get a kick ahead of your night out at Tiger Lily at Electric Gardens Apartments, featuring a dramatic modern geometric ceiling, cozy luxe couches, chic black and white decor and Ready Set Coffee, wine, CBD tonic and other hand-crafted drinks. Then mosey down to the Literary Tavern for a craft cocktail at this newer intimate gothic Midwest Tremont staple that also whips up some elevated chef-driven grub. But don’t eat too much because Ginko, The New York Times-acclaimed basement sushi haven from Dante Boccuzzi, is ahead. With full bellies, head to Kaiser Gallery, an art gallery and cocktail bar, or La Cave Du Vin, a red-lit experiential wine bar in a historic basement. End your night at The Treehouse, an Irish bar where locals sip on the patio all summer long. “The decor is really fun,” says bar manger Nikki Lynnet. “It’s a really chill spot for a date.”
Ohio City’s Hingetown
If it’s a first date, City Goods is an easy landmark to meet. “The Bar and The Shops at City Goods provide the perfect date night setting, where you can meander through seven buildings adorned with string lights and shop 25-plus local businesses — all with a drink in hand,” says Liz Painter, co-founder and director of growth. Around the corner, spot the vibrant tiger mural, and step into chef Douglas Katz’s dark and moody Amba, for higher-end shareable Indian eats and designer libations, enjoyed over waning moon lights that elevate the romantic ambiance. Cozy up at Bookhouse Brewing for a nightcap at this small brewery and taproom, centered around a wooden bar, picnic-tabled patio and tons of house-made ciders and brews on tap.
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