Cleveland, Ohio is a city that has a lot to offer when it comes to food. Whether you’re looking for classic Cleveland cuisine or something new and exciting, you’re sure to find it in this vibrant city. To help you navigate your way through the culinary scene, we’ve put together a list of the top 10 places to eat in Cleveland.
Avo Modern Mexican
The Avo Modern Mexican structure has a vintage grocery shop aesthetic. It is red brick with a stucco overhang in the middle. One of Cleveland’s hottest restaurants is now housed there.
Shrimp, chorizo, chicken cooked in avocado, barbeque, and ground beef are just a few of the options at Avo Modern Mexican, where the toppings spill over the edge of a corn tortilla.
For the ideal harmony of sour and sweet, this meal blends red cabbage and radish slaw with chipotle-garlic aioli, heirloom pico de gallo, cilantro, and queso fresco.
Mabel’s BBQ
Celebrity chef Michael Symon’s Mabel’s BBQ is a must-visit for any meat lover. Located in Downtown Cleveland, this trendy spot is known for their smoked meats, including brisket, pork belly, and ribs. They also offer a variety of creative sides, such as spicy pickles and burnt end beans.
If you’re a meat lover, Mabel’s BBQ is the place for you. This trendy spot in Downtown Cleveland is the brainchild of celebrity chef Michael Symon, and it’s known for their delicious smoked meats. Their brisket, pork belly, and ribs are all standout dishes, but they also offer a variety of creative sides, such as spicy pickles and burnt end beans. The atmosphere is lively and energetic, with a fun, communal feel that’s perfect for groups.
Bar Oni
With the addition of Bar Oni, Clevelanders experienced something totally refreshing when it came to the fine-dining scene.
Matthew Spinner’s Eastern-bloc roots are evident in his cuisine, but instead of rehashing traditional dishes à la Josef Centeno’s Atla in Los Angeles, Spinner is taking familiar flavors and techniques and applying them in a fast-casual environment that’s approachable to everyone.
What he misses in elegance, he makes up for with gutsiness and this restaurant deserves its place amongst the best restaurants in Cleveland.
With a focus on yakitori or grilled chicken skewers and sandwiches, Spinner offers a selection of simple dishes, from shrimp dusted with candy powder to a burger covered in a house-made spicy chili topped with wasabi mustard.
Takoyaki fritters are also smothered in sugary kewpie mayo, scallions, pickled ginger, and smoked fish flake for an enigmatic snack that shines in late-night get-togethers.
Barrio
If you’re in the mood for Mexican food, Barrio is the place to go. This modern Mexican restaurant has several locations throughout Cleveland, and they’re known for their build-your-own tacos and margaritas. But they also offer a variety of other dishes, such as nachos, quesadillas, and salads. The atmosphere is lively and fun, with a focus on socializing and enjoying good food and drinks with friends.
L’Albatros Brasserie
L’Albatros Brasserie is a French-inspired restaurant located in the heart of Cleveland’s University Circle neighborhood. The restaurant’s interior is designed to evoke a traditional French brasserie, with vintage decor and classic bistro seating. The menu at L’Albatros Brasserie offers a mix of classic French dishes and modern twists on traditional favorites. For starters, the escargot is a must-try dish, featuring tender snails in a rich garlic butter sauce. The bouillabaisse is another standout dish, featuring a fragrant seafood broth filled with mussels, clams, and shrimp.
In addition to their classic dishes, L’Albatros Brasserie also offers a range of more unique options. The wild boar sausage is a perfect example, served with caramelized onions and tangy Dijon mustard. The steak frites is another classic French dish, featuring a perfectly cooked hanger steak with crispy French fries. For those looking for something a bit lighter, the roasted beet salad is a refreshing and flavorful option.
No French meal would be complete without a glass of wine, and L’Albatros Brasserie has an extensive wine list with over 400 selections from around the world. Their knowledgeable staff can help you find the perfect pairing for your meal. The restaurant also has a great selection of cocktails and craft beers, including some local favorites.
Overall, L’Albatros Brasserie is a great choice for a special occasion or a romantic dinner. The combination of classic French dishes, modern twists, and extensive wine list make for a truly memorable dining experience.
West Side Market:
West Side Market is a historic public market located in the Ohio City neighborhood of Cleveland. The market has been a Cleveland institution since it first opened in 1912 and has become a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike. The market features over 100 vendors selling a wide variety of fresh produce, meats, seafood, baked goods, and prepared foods.
Walking through the West Side Market is a feast for the senses. The smells of freshly baked bread and roasting coffee fill the air, while colorful produce and flowers line the aisles. You can find everything from exotic spices and artisan cheeses to fresh-caught seafood and handcrafted sausage. The market is also home to several popular restaurants and cafes, including Steve’s Gyro Stand and The Original Greek Gyro Company.
TownHall
TownHall is a modern American gastropub located in Cleveland’s Ohio City neighborhood. As a food blogger, I’m always on the lookout for restaurants that offer unique and flavorful dishes, and TownHall definitely delivers. The menu at TownHall is focused on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and there are plenty of options for vegetarians and vegans as well.
One of the standout dishes at TownHall is the avocado toast, which is topped with a perfectly poached egg and drizzled with a tangy citrus aioli. The cauliflower wings are another must-try dish, featuring crispy breaded cauliflower tossed in a spicy buffalo sauce. For those looking for something heartier, the burger is a standout, featuring a juicy grass-fed beef patty topped with bacon and a fried egg.
What really sets TownHall apart, though, is their commitment to sustainability and social responsibility. The restaurant uses compostable and biodegradable packaging, and they source their ingredients from local farmers and producers whenever possible. They also donate a portion of their profits to local charities and organizations.
Overall, if you’re looking for a restaurant that offers delicious food, a welcoming atmosphere, and a commitment to sustainability, TownHall is definitely worth a visit.
Ninja City
Ninja City is a fun and funky Asian fusion restaurant located in the Gordon Square Arts District. Their menu features unique dishes like “Sloppy Bo” (a Korean-style sloppy joe) and “Ninja Tots” (tater tots with pork belly, kimchi, and scallions). They also have an impressive selection of craft beers and sake.
Dante
Dante is a fine-dining restaurant located in the Tremont neighborhood. Their menu features contemporary American cuisine, with an emphasis on seasonal ingredients. The restaurant also has an extensive wine list, featuring over 600 selections from around the world.
Stone Mad Pub
Stone Mad Pub is an Irish pub located in the Detroit Shoreway neighborhood. The pub is known for its cozy atmosphere and extensive selection of Irish whiskeys and craft beers. Their menu features classic pub fare like fish and chips and bangers and mash, as well as more unique dishes like the “Irish Egg Rolls” (corned beef, cabbage, and Swiss cheese rolled in wonton wrappers).
We hope this list helps you discover some new favorite restaurants in Cleveland. Bon appétit!
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