In 2012, while sipping wine in France, Lindsay Smith had an epiphany. A fun atmosphere and friendly guidance could break down the pretentions often associated with wine. Nine years later, Smith’s vino-fueled dream is a reality with Flight Cleveland, Detroit Shoreway’s go-to stop and shop with over 100 bottles to choose from.
One of Us: Originally from Chicago, Smith is a Cleveland convert. “When I was designing this concept, I was using all my reference points from Cleveland as I knew it.”
No Snobs: As part of Smith’s mission to make wine more accessible, Flight’s menu centers around, you guessed it, curated flights (or samplers) with whimsical themes and surprising sips. Right now, her favorite is Sippity Doo-Dah ($12.50), a lineup of three winter whites. “I love saying the name because it kind of makes me chuckle.”
Nerd Herd: By creating a comfortable, accommodating space, Smith built a family she affectionately calls her “wine nerd community.” When the pandemic struck, these local patrons refused to let Flight fall. “People in the neighborhood and our customer base showed up for us. I’m just so grateful to them, because without all of them, Flight wouldn’t be the super fun place it is today.” 5712 Detroit Ave., Cleveland, 216-400-6867, flightcleveland.com
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