Boca Loca Burrito Factory
Since launching the Boca Loca food truck in 2012, co-owner Heather Doeberling has rewarded die-hard fans with a few secret menu items. The Real Quesarito ($12) — a 1 1/2 pound deep-fried burrito wrapped in a quesadilla — is the holy grail of that menu. With a brick-and-mortar space opening a year ago, the mammoth creation is still popular among loyalists. “There are about 15 in downtown Cleveland that know about it,” she says. “It’s a pretty elite squad.” 1 Berea Commons, Berea, 440-625-0121, bocalocaburritofactory.com
Der Braumeister Restaurant & Market
While you’ll find different kinds of schnitzels at this West Park mainstay, longtime guests know to call ahead for the St. Moritz schnitzel ($18.95). A nod to the Alpine ski resort, this off-menu entree starts with pounded veal that’s breaded in fine-ground Emmental cheese — a medium-hard Swiss variety — and breadcrumbs. It’s served over a bed of spaetzle and topped with a house-made marinara. 13046 Lorain Ave., Cleveland, 216-671-6220, derbrau.com
The Side Quest
A hangout for geeks and nerds, this popular Lakewood bar knows how to cash in on cult favorites. To celebrate the 10th anniversary of the first Scott Pilgrim graphic novel in 2014, bartenders created a cocktail menu featuring all seven Evil Exes. Those in the know can still ask for drinks such as the Gideon ($8), a fruity take on a Long Island iced tea made with Malibu, Kraken, Captain Morgan and Bacardi rum, pineapple juice and a splash of cranberry juice. “Gideon is so pretentious that you can’t even tell which kinds of rums are in it,” says co-owner Sam Bridgeman. 17900 Detroit Ave., Lakewood, 216-228-1212, thesidequestbar.com
