James Bigley II, managing editor
Barroco Arepa Bar’s Barroco Burger ($14)
Heaven knows I’ll do almost anything for a good burger, but this one is an absolute beast that’s terribly messy and oh, so savory. With bacon, grilled onions, crushed potato chips, lettuce, tomato, chimichurri and ranchero sauce, there’s so much flavor occurring all at once, nothing quite compares to that very first bite. Various locations, barrocoarepabar.com
Dillon Stewart, associate editor
Cilantro Taqueria’s Al Pastor Taco ($3)
These days, tacos are as ubiquitous as burgers on Cleveland menus, but a truly authentic one is still a rare find. Owner Raul Carrillo brought his al pastor recipe — which is cooked on a spit and includes a pineapple and onion marinade finished with a secret sauce — from the taquerias of his hometown of Santa Ana, Mexico. Paired with the mayo-smothered Mexican street corn, the restaurant combines Mexican and Americana vibes for a unique dining experience. Various locations, cilantrotaqueria.com
Arbela Capas, associate editor
Szechuan Gourmet’s Sesame Chicken ($12.95)
and Pork Lo Mein ($8.95)
My usual order at most Asian restaurants has been sesame chicken — it’s just the perfect mix of savory and sweet. But what I’ve found is that each place I try is a little different. Szechuan Gourmet, which is tucked away in the heart of AsiaTown, serves its chicken with a little more zest to the sauce, which has almost a citrusy flair to it. Pairing it with a hefty portion of Pork Lo Mein is a must, but I already know this will serve as hearty leftovers for later. 1735 E. 36th St., Cleveland, 216 881-9688, szechuangourmetoh.kwickmenu.com
Henry Palattella, associate editor
Tavern Six’s Buffalo Chicken Wrap ($13)
Tavern Six’s buffalo chicken wrap deserves to be in the pantheon of wraps, with juicy chicken pieces, lettuce, cheese and house-made ranch and buffalo chicken sauces stuffed into a warm tortilla. Complement this with a side of mac ’n’ cheese and you have one of the best meals in Cleveland. 7592 Euclid Chardon Road, Kirtland, 440-256-1100, tavernsixkirtland.com
