10 Amazing Eats in Cleveland
A first for Clemente Travels- a guest post! Following, you'll spot a wonderfully crafted article about Cleveland's growing dining scene by Julia Sharrock.
I first met Julia while working at The Twisted Olive years ago (2014?) and have since kept in touch. Her page, Explore Local Foodie, has been featured on Voyage Ohio and in the Akron Beacon Journal. When she isn't traveling, you can catch her on her amazing socials for some DELICIOUS recommendations: TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook. Thank you so much, Julia! ~ Hannah
Explore Local Foodie
Cleveland’s dining scene is the underdog of restaurant spots. With Cleveland’s restaurant scene growing from left to right, the food just gets better. With popular neighborhoods like Ohio City, Tremont, and Lakewood growing, that means more spots for tourists and residents.
After two years of people ordering takeout, many restaurants went straight to reconstructing and improving their businesses. Many chefs are making up for the missed years of indoor experiences. There is no shortage of places to eat in Cleveland - there is something for everyone to enjoy from small coffee shops to Korean bbq. Here you can find all sorts of cuisines. So open your schedule and because it’s time to get some Cleveland eats! I have compiled this list of 10 amazing spots that I personally love.
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17001 Madison Ave, Lakewood, OH 44107
The stylish Lakewood spot with neon signs, bright paintings, and artsy, ‘70s trailer park vibes opened in 2018 offering a creative, delicious menu of American-style gourmet dishes and pie. Be sure to order dessert after a meal and cocktails!
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242 Main St, Westlake, OH 44145
If you are looking to add a little spice to your life, The popular Nashville hot chicken style restaurant is a staple that serves chicken at four heat levels: cold, warm, hot, and holy. The “holy” level will set your pants on fire. You have been warned! This is one of my favorite spots to eat at. Among the choices at HCT are mac n cheese, fries, sandwiches, desserts, and more!
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623 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, OH 44114
Looking for an upscale dining experience? Then head to one of the area’s fine dining establishments and treat yourself to the Marble Room. The former bank on Euclid Avenue was built in 1893 by the sons of President James A. Garfield. The transformative space is something to see. The food will leave you wanting to eat more. Order caviar, steak and have a glass of wine at this beautiful establishment.
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1127 Old River Rd, Cleveland, OH 44113
The beloved Cleveland bagel shop is considered one of the best bagel shops in Ohio. They offer a variety of bagel flavors, as well as bagel sandwiches for breakfast, lunch, and dinner such as the Pizza Bagel or a Philly cheesecake-inspired bagel sandwich. They have a location in North Olmsted as well in the Flats.
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583 Dover Center Rd, Bay Village, OH 44140+
In Bay Village, Thyme Table, which opened in 2019, has won several awards in the last several years for Best Restaurant, Best Desserts, and won Best Chef in 2022. This award-winning location is an upscale tavern concept, where the menu has something for everyone. Must try their famous appetizer - Lobster tater tots! And don’t miss out on their desserts.
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One of Tremont’s best bars is Cloak and Dagger. It is as cool as the name sounds! Their menu rotates seasonally and they offer a selection of unique signature cocktails, a curated domestic and local beer list, and vegan food made from scratch.
It’s a place to relax and have fun with your friends and family.
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3142 Superior Ave, Cleveland, OH 44114
A Chinese restaurant famous for their xiao long bao aka soup dumplings which are one of the must-try foods to eat in Cleveland. Nothing like seeing a bamboo steamer basket arrive at your table with lots of yummy eats to try out. Their menu consists of noodle dishes, soups, salads, and specialty dishes. If you enjoy Asian food this is a go-to check out spot.
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2100 Superior Viaduct, Cleveland, OH 44113
Time for a romantic evening or a nice night out? Luca is the place to be. The place encases the calming, Italian vibe throughout the restaurant. The Sacchetti Al Tartufo Bianco is one of the many dishes you have to try out at this restaurant. It actually happened to be made by accident. One of the chefs had tossed the pasta in some truffle soup and added balsamic vinegar. Since then it has become one of the most popular dishes at Luca. Visit one of the Italian restaurants in Cleveland.
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5010 Lorain Ave, Cleveland, OH 44102
One of Cleveland’s favorite gems, Cent’s. A pizza shop filled with modern and retro vibes with classic music. They offer a variety of pizza options, appetizers (wonder bread is one of their hits), and salads. Go have a cheesy slice of pizza!
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2173 Professor Ave, Cleveland, OH 44113
Decorated in classic diner decor, this wonderful spot's bright space is based around order-ahead counter service but they do provide four bar stools and some outdoor seating during the warm weather season. Martha’s menu offers breakfast sandwiches that feature the egg patty that is a Japanese omelet style ( thick, square, steamed patties). These egg sandwiches are paired with delicious sausage and American cheese, thick-cut baloney, caramelized onions, and other yummy toppings. Everything from the buns to the meats is made from scratch.
All photos used are courtesy of Explore Local Foodie (Julia Sharrock)
Where will you be heading first? Comment below!
~ Cheers, Hannah
