Discovering Sunset Harbor Bar and Grille is like finding long-buried treasure. Just 30 miles northeast of Cleveland, this lakeside gem — tucked away in the HTP Rack and Marina — sits on the dock of a fishing pier. Be sure to grab one of the 22 outdoor picnic tables at least half an hour before sundown. The breathtaking view as the sun dips behind the 90-year-old Fairport Harbor West Breakwater Lighthouse gives this place its moniker. The seafood-heavy menu is just as refreshing, blending spice with unexpected flavors. The flash-fried calamari ($12), topped with sweet red pepper relish, comes with a side of cusabi — a house-made blend of wasabi and cool cucumber ranch. The Angry Crab burger ($16) takes heat to the next level, with a mound of crab meat slathered in a roasted red pepper sauce over crisp slices of jalapeno and bacon. But if you want to cool down, try the North Shore fish tacos ($12 half, $16 full) with fresh Lake Erie perch coated in a creamy chipotle lime remoulade hidden beneath a pile of lettuce, tomato and coleslaw. It's another tasty trove that makes this lakeside paradise worth exploring.
When You Go: Sunset Harbor Bar and Grille, 625 Prospect St., Fairport Harbor, 440-350-0500 sunsetharborgrille.com
