Cleveland’s vibrant food scene is a treasure trove of gastronomic delights, offering everything from innovative Midwest cuisine to authentic international flavors. FOODS.EDU.VN is your ultimate guide to navigating this delicious landscape, helping you discover hidden gems and savor the city’s culinary stars. Explore Cleveland’s top restaurants and find your next unforgettable meal, experiencing the best cooking and tasty options this amazing city has to offer.
1. Acqua Di Dea: Mediterranean Seafood Elegance
Acqua Di Dea, located downtown, emerged as a culinary haven post-pandemic, reminding Clevelanders of the joys of elegant dining. Lola Jacaj’s Mediterranean seafood coliseum, housed in a historic brick space, offers an opulent experience. Indulge in the lemon-stuffed sole while enjoying the bustling atmosphere of West Sixth Street. The restaurant’s pricey wine selection and attentive service provide a pampering experience for food enthusiasts.
Corner Dominance: Lola Jacaj has expanded her culinary footprint by opening Oliva Steakhouse next to Acqua di Dea and plans to introduce a French concept nearby, solidifying her presence in the downtown dining scene.
2. Alea: Live-Fire Mediterranean Delights
Hidden in Ohio City’s Hingetown, Alea offers a unique Mediterranean small plate experience. Chef-owner Athan Zarnas’s live-fire cooking infuses dishes with smoky flavors. The lamb ssam for two, a build-your-own lettuce wrap with pulled meat, veggies, and house sauces, is a must-try. Seasonal additions like the pork chop milanese, with Thai-inspired green curry sauce, provide exciting twists. Don’t miss the rotating grilled vegetables, which often absorb more flavor than meat, such as the grilled cabbage with yogurt, peanut dukkah, and chili.
Last Call: Alea’s seasonal menus always feature a bright and buoyant panna cotta, a light dessert perfect for any palate.
3. Amba: Indian-Inspired Small Plates Adventure
Amba, located in Ohio City’s Hingetown, offers an adventurous dining experience with Indian-inspired small plates. Co-owners Douglas Katz and Todd Thompson have transformed an old machine shop into an industrial minimalist dining room. Shareable plates like soft clay bread, beetroot raita yogurt, and spicy sloppy Joe with keema venison-tomato curry are designed to be enjoyed together. Standalone dishes such as crispy puris and popcorn chicken provide additional delights. Chef-curated menus help guide diners through this flavorful adventure.
Dinner and Drinks: Pair your meal with craft beverages like the a5, a chai bourbon cocktail, or the tiki-inspired a2 at Amba’s adjacent cocktail lounge.
4. Astoria Cafe & Market: Mediterranean with a Greek Touch
Astoria Cafe & Market in Gordon Square is celebrated for its Mediterranean cuisine with a strong Greek influence. Start with the dolmades, a rice-stuffed grape recipe passed down through a Greek family, dressed in a tangy lemony ladolemono. The lamb and ricotta meatballs, served on pasta with chunky tomato sauce, are designed to be light and fluffy. End with the portokalopita, a dense golden cake doused in candied-orange syrup, providing a sweet citrus finish.
Get Schooled: Enhance your culinary knowledge by attending Astoria’s monthly chess school on wine and cheese pairings, led by cheesemonger Tom Leguard.
5. Batuqui: Traditional Brazilian Flavors
Batuqui, with locations on Larchmere Boulevard and Chagrin Falls, offers traditional Brazilian cuisine. Owners Carla Batista and Gustavo Nogueira, hailing from Bahia and Minas Gerais, present flavors like feijoada, a black bean stew; pao de queijo, cheese bread from Minas Gerais; and the caipirinha cocktail. Batuqui is more than a Brazilian steakhouse, providing a taste of Brazilian family legacy and culinary prowess.
Bigger Table: Batuqui is moving from its cozy Larchmere home to a larger space in the former St. Paul’s Evangelical, expanding seating and enhancing the dining experience with stained glass windows and tall ceilings.
6. Cordelia: Midwest Comfort Cuisine
Cordelia, located downtown, has been recognized as a top restaurant, serving Midwest comfort cuisine. Owner Andrew Watts and Chef-owner Vinnie Cimino continue to impress with their dishes. First-timers should opt for the Bellie Up tasting menu, featuring fan favorites like the carrot muhummara, the corned lamb, and the burger box.
All-time favorites: Indecisive visitors will love the tasting menu, where the kitchen staff chooses six to seven dishes, offering a curated selection of Cordelia’s best.
7. Cent’s Pizza & Goods: Modern Wood-Fired Pizza
Cent’s Pizza & Goods in Ohio City offers modern wood-fired pizza in an ultra-cool, artfully branded setting. Chef and entrepreneur Vincent Morelli brings his pizza-making expertise to Cleveland, creating a pizzeria reminiscent of those in Los Angeles or New York.
Try This: The Sunday gravy pizza, inspired by Morelli’s grandparents’ Sunday pasta dinners, features his grandmother’s meatball recipe, offering a nostalgic taste.
8. Edwin’s Leadership & Restaurant Institute: French Cuisine with a Mission
Edwin’s Leadership & Restaurant Institute in Shaker Square stands out for its stellar French cuisine and its mission to train formerly incarcerated Clevelanders. Founder Brandon Chrostowski’s techniques are bold and flavorful, showcased in dishes like the garlicky escargots and the mushroomy le burger. The restaurant’s most popular dish, paupiettes de merou, highlights its skill-sharing and community engagement.
“Eat Well, Do Good”: Edwin’s mission is clearly displayed on its menus, emphasizing the restaurant’s commitment to both culinary excellence and social responsibility.
9. Fahrenheit: Upscale American Cuisine with a View
Fahrenheit, relocated downtown, offers upscale American cuisine with a sexy, chic ambiance. Chef Rocco Whalen’s restaurant in the heart of Public Square is perfect for impressing a date or celebrating a major event. With rooftop season, Whalen continues to innovate.
Try This: The seafood towers, lavish displays of fresh bounty like oysters, crab legs, and Maine lobster tails, are accentuated by citrus mignonette, horseradish remoulade, or chimichurri.
10. Ginko: Top-Notch Sushi Bar
Ginko, located in Tremont, is a sushi bar established by Cleveland star chef Dante Boccuzzi. Known for consistency and sourcing top-notch fish weekly from Japan, Ginko offers signature staple dishes that keep customers coming back.
Try This: The Eye of the Tiger roll, a tangy blend of pickled shiitake mushrooms, pickled burdock root, and fresh oysters with spicy mayo and eel sauce, is a must-try specialty roll.
11. Issho Ni Ramen: Authentic Ramen and Sushi
Issho Ni Ramen, located in Willoughby, offers Greater Cleveland’s best ramen and sushi. Owner Johanes Jonathan and Executive chef Ryan Endrian provide a range of complex flavors, from sweet and savory to spicy. The spicy tonkotsu ramen is perfect for Cleveland weather, while the sushi is meticulously crafted with fish flown in from Tokyo.
No stone unturned: The team tests the water quality to ensure it’s optimal for the sushi rice, highlighting their dedication to every detail.
12. JoJo’s Bar: Italian Destination Eatery
JoJo’s Bar in Chagrin Falls is a destination eatery that modernizes the classic Italian steakhouse. Owner Rick Doody and Joe Saccone have created a menu that reflects Doody’s knowledge of Italian cuisine. The Saffron Shrimp Garganelli is a recreation of a dish Doody enjoyed in Florence, while the spicy vodka rigatoni is a standout.
Saucy Secret: A JoJo’s chef learned the key ingredient in the eatery’s signature spicy vodka sauce—low-acid New Jersey tomatoes—from a bartender at Carbone in Las Vegas.
13. Juneberry Table: Farm-to-Table Brunch
Juneberry Table in Ohio City offers farm-to-table brunch, employing practices that made Karen Small’s Flying Fig beloved. Her spin on regional comfort staples is enough to coax even morning-haters out of bed. Juneberry is also adding dinner soon.
Try This: Ohio spelt pancakes, made with spelt grain, are light and hearty, providing a warm and satisfying start to the day.
14. LJ Shanghai: Authentic Shanghainese Comfort Food
LJ Shanghai in AsiaTown offers authentic Shanghainese comfort food. Owner LJ shares her hometown cravings through dishes like soup dumplings, crunchy cucumbers, spicy chaoshou, pan-fried beef noodles, and sweet and sour ribs. The restaurant showcases an authentic kind of Chinese food, emphasizing quality and careful selection.
150: The number of soup dumpling orders LJ makes on a busy day, highlighting the popularity of this signature dish.
15. L’albatros: French Brasserie Experience
L’albatros, located in Cleveland Heights, is a quintessential French brasserie. Chef-Owner Zack Bruell’s restaurant offers an authentic approach, extensive wine list, tableside cheese cart, and rich, complex flavors.
Try This: The duck confit, cured, cooked slow, doused in duck fat, and seared until crispy, is a traditional dish prepared with meticulous care.
16. Larder Delicatessen and Bakery: Modern Delicatessen
Larder Delicatessen and Bakery in Ohio City offers a modern delicatessen experience in an 1800s-era firehouse. Chef-owners Jeremy Umansky and Allie La Valle create new takes on sandwiches, salads, and desserts, using local ingredients sourced from the West Side Market and surrounding areas.
Koji Pioneer: Umansky literally wrote the James Beard-recognized book, Koji Alchemy, on the mold-based fermentation process that drives the restaurant’s best bites.
17. The Last Page: Modern American Cuisine
The Last Page in Pinecrest offers modern American cuisine with a global twist. Interim executive chef Brad Race has studied food around the world, creating a menu that streamlines similar flavors from different continents. Enjoy dishes like brulee French toast, shrimp po-boy, or Australian lamb chops.
Smoke and Mirrors: Cocktails like the flaming mai tai and The Last Manhattan, served in applewood smoke, complete The Last Page’s experiential dining approach.
18. Mabel’s BBQ: Cleveland-Style Barbecue
Mabel’s BBQ, located downtown, offers Cleveland-style barbecue. Owner Michael Symon uses Bertman’s Ballpark Mustard to add a tangy kick to the Cleveland BBQ sauce. Eastern European kielbasa replaces Texas-style sausage, and Ohio fruitwood injects flavor into the smoked meats.
Whiskey Island: Mabel’s bourbon list features more than 200 bottles, including a full list of Symon’s own River Roots Barrel Co., which is bottled locally.
19. Marble Room Steaks & Raw Bar: Opulent Steakhouse Experience
Marble Room Steaks & Raw Bar, located downtown, pairs excellent steaks with an incredible atmosphere. Owner Malisse Sinito and Chef Brandon Veres offer a full dining experience in a former bank built in the late 1800s. Enjoy the 18-ounce Delmonico steak or shareable side dishes like potatoes au gratin and Brussel sprouts.
10: That’s how many different steaks are on the regular menu at Marble Room, ensuring a wide selection for steak enthusiasts.
20. The Pompadour: Spanish-Inspired Tapas
The Pompadour in Fairport Harbor offers Spanish-inspired tapas. Chef Rusty James Phillips elevates familiar dishes, such as Punk Rock Chicken and mussels in Mexican chorizo broth. The beverage program, with craft cocktails and zero-proof options, is worth the drive.
New Possibilities: Phillips is readying a new concept directly next door to the Pompadour with a wine bar and tastings.
21. Rood: Pie and Seasonal Midwestern Cuisine
Rood in Lakewood offers pie and hearty Midwest eats with seasonal ingredients. Owner Brian Ruthsatz and Executive chef Josh Erickson have shifted from sliders to Midwest Americana, with a Miami-inspired decor.
Midwest Dreaming: Chef Josh Erickson wants to turn Midwest Americana on its head, adding razor clams and Asian influences to the menu.
22. Slyman’s Restaurant & Deli: Old School Deli
Slyman’s Restaurant & Deli, located downtown, is an old-school deli known for its corned beef and pastrami sandwiches. Owner Freddie Slyman continues the family tradition, serving pink shrapnels of brisket and thinly sliced pastrami to a loyal clientele.
Family Matters: The next generation of Slymans, Nadia and Meredith, are already working behind the slicer, ensuring the deli’s legacy continues.
23. Thyme Table: Upscale Americana
Thyme Table in Bay Village offers upscale Americana cuisine in a cozy, intimate setting. Owners Mike and Tess Smith and Chef Julie Chimes create a space that’s spiffy but casual, fancy not stuffy. The BBQ beer braised short rib is a menu constant, while the loaded lobster tots exemplify the restaurant’s high-low dichotomy.
Outdoor Muse: The inspiration for the lobster tots hit Smith like a lightning bolt while sitting in his backyard one day, highlighting the creativity behind the menu.
24. Vero Pizza Napoletana: Authentic Neapolitan Pizza
Vero Pizza Napoletana, located in Cleveland Heights, offers authentic Neapolitan pizza. Pizzaiola Marc-Aurele Buholzer has been honing his skills for 15 years, creating chewy, thin-crust pizzas. Vero recently expanded, adding a full bar and doubling the seating capacity.
Getting it right: Buholzer was the only pizzamaker for a decade, meticulously hand-fashioning every pie himself, ensuring the highest quality.
25. Zhug: Mediterranean Mezze
Zhug, located in Cleveland Heights, offers Mediterranean mezze. Owner-chef Douglas Katz maintains a buzz with build-your-bite menus centered around its namesake green, spicy chutney. Enjoy flatbread with various hummuses, smoked octopus, and beef kofte.
Hiding in Plain Sight: Katz found a company here in Ohio, SoCo, that produces the best tahini, an essential sneaky ingredient in the cuisine.
Understanding User Search Intent for “Best Food in Cleveland”
To provide the most relevant and helpful information, it’s crucial to understand what users are looking for when they search for “Best Food In Cleveland.” Here are five key search intents:
- Seeking Recommendations: Users want suggestions for top-rated restaurants or specific types of cuisine in Cleveland.
- Looking for Specific Dishes: Users have a particular food item in mind and want to know where to find the best version of it (e.g., “best pizza in Cleveland,” “best brunch in Cleveland”).
- Exploring Different Cuisines: Users are interested in discovering diverse culinary options and want to explore different ethnic foods or dining experiences.
- Finding Affordable Options: Users are looking for great food that doesn’t break the bank, such as cheap eats, happy hour deals, or budget-friendly restaurants.
- Planning a Special Occasion: Users need recommendations for restaurants suitable for celebrations, romantic dinners, or business meetings.
Latest Culinary Trends in Cleveland
Stay up-to-date with the latest trends shaping Cleveland’s food scene:
| Trend | Description | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Hyperlocal Sourcing | Restaurants are increasingly focused on sourcing ingredients from local farms and producers, emphasizing sustainability and supporting the community. | Juneberry Table, Larder Delicatessen and Bakery |
| Global Fusion | Chefs are blending cuisines from different cultures to create unique and innovative dishes, reflecting Cleveland’s diverse population. | Amba, The Last Page |
| Elevated Comfort Food | Classic comfort dishes are being reimagined with high-quality ingredients and creative twists, offering a nostalgic yet refined dining experience. | Cordelia, Thyme Table |
| Experiential Dining | Restaurants are focusing on creating immersive and memorable experiences through unique atmospheres, interactive menus, and theatrical presentations. | Marble Room Steaks & Raw Bar, The Pompadour |
| Plant-Based Options | With the rise of veganism and vegetarianism, more restaurants are offering creative and delicious plant-based dishes, catering to a wider range of dietary preferences. | Zhug, Juneberry Table |
| Digital Integration | The integration of technology in dining, with QR code menus, online reservations, and delivery services transforming how people interact with restaurants. | Many Cleveland restaurants offer online ordering and reservation systems. |
| Sustainable Practices | Increased awareness of environmental impact and restaurants using eco-friendly packaging and reducing waste, catering to eco-conscious diners. | Local farm-to-table restaurants. |
| Unique Beverage Menus | Craft cocktails, local beers, and curated wine lists are more prevalent, adding extra depth to the dining experience. | The Last Page, Fahrenheit |
| Open Kitchen Concepts | Transparency is valued, and diners enjoy seeing their food being prepared, creating trust and excitement. | Alea, Larder Delicatessen and Bakery |
| Pop-Up Events | Temporary dining events and chef collaborations offer a creative platform for showcasing unique culinary talent and exciting new concepts. | Local chefs doing guest appearances at restaurants. |
FAQ About the Best Food in Cleveland
- What types of cuisine are popular in Cleveland?
Cleveland offers a diverse range of cuisines, including American, Italian, Mediterranean, Asian, and Brazilian. - Where can I find the best fine dining experiences in Cleveland?
Marble Room Steaks & Raw Bar, Fahrenheit, and L’albatros are excellent choices for fine dining. - Are there any restaurants in Cleveland that offer good vegetarian or vegan options?
Yes, Zhug and Juneberry Table offer creative and delicious plant-based dishes. - What are some must-try dishes when visiting Cleveland?
Consider trying the corned beef sandwich at Slyman’s, the Neapolitan pizza at Vero, and the Mediterranean mezze at Zhug. - Can you recommend any restaurants with a great atmosphere for a date night?
Fahrenheit and Marble Room Steaks & Raw Bar offer sexy, chic atmospheres perfect for a date night. - Where can I find the best barbecue in Cleveland?
Mabel’s BBQ offers Cleveland-style barbecue with a tangy twist. - What are some restaurants in Cleveland that source local ingredients?
Juneberry Table and Larder Delicatessen and Bakery prioritize sourcing ingredients from local farms and producers. - Where can I find authentic international cuisine in Cleveland?
LJ Shanghai offers authentic Shanghainese comfort food, while Batuqui provides traditional Brazilian flavors. - Are there any restaurants in Cleveland with unique cocktail menus?
The Last Page and Fahrenheit offer creative and experiential cocktail programs. - What are some of the best brunch spots in Cleveland?
Juneberry Table is a fantastic option for farm-to-table brunch.
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