The foodie scene in Cleveland is doubtlessly one of the city's finest features. There's plenty to do and see, but there is so much to devour here. No matter what you're craving, there's an eatery with the perfect menu to accommodate you. Each new years brings oodles of new restaurants, meaning there's always something new to try if you're feeling adventurous. Prepare your taste buds, because conquering this bucket list is going to be an overwhelmingly flavorful experience.
1. ROOD Food & Pie (17001 Madison Ave., Lakewood)
Madison Ave. is an incredibly vibrant street, and ROOD comes with a colorful menu that reflects Lakewood's artsy atmosphere. The build-your-own sliders have been a hit since the restaurant opened in late 2018, but the eclectic menu hosts the perfect flavors for breakfast, lunch, and dinner alike. And for dessert? Delicious pies! The unique Salt & Honey pie is served up with an itty bitty vial of bee pollen, which locals report is a dream for your taste buds.
2. Fat Head's Brewery (17450 Engle Lake Dr., Middleburg Heights)
There's nothing like great beer and good food. This eccentric brewery in Middleburg is truly a must-see destination, as it's set up to allow visitors a unique, behind-the-scenes glimpse at the brewing process. The beer pairs perfectly with the all-American menu filled with favorite dishes. Fat Head’s Brewery opened last summer, but if you haven't visited it yet, it truly must top your bucket list.
3. Polpetta (19900 Detroit Rd., Rocky River)
This quirky restaurant features a unique approach to dining. Here, it's all about meatballs and cocktails, and patrons find this to be a match made in heaven. It opened in September and has since acquired a following thanks to a variety of meatballs and sauce choices that locals are loving. A variety of sides are also offered, allowing you to create a flavorful dinner that you won't find anywhere else.
4. Mister Brisket Next Door (2156 S Taylor Rd., Cleveland)
Mister Brisket is one of Cleveland's most beloved butcher shops - and has been for decades - but this past year ushered in a new era of celebration. Now, it comes with a sit-down deli, allowing patrons to indulge in some delicious meat-based meals. Corned beef, brisket pastrami, hot dogs, and soups delight guests with a delicious, fuss-free meal.
5. Blue Habanero (6416 Detroit Ave., Cleveland)
Clevelanders are pros at celebrating Taco Tuesday, and Blue Habanero helps them do just that with a creative menu that focuses on street tacos. They opened in November of 2018, but its owner is well-versed in prepping Tex-Mex cuisine; you may have dined at his Tres Potrillos restaurants! You're sure to love this new addition to the foodie scene.
6. Corner 11 Bowl & Wrap (2391 W 11th St., Cleveland)
Tremont is a cute and cozy neighborhood of Cleveland that attracts visitors from all over for its abundance of restaurants. New to the lineup is Corner 11, and they've brought with them a menu that focuses on Hawaiian poke. Though they just opened about one year ago, locals have been lining up for their eccentric cuisine ever since.
7. Ohio City Galley (1400 W 25th St., Cleveland)
Editor's Note: Unfortunately, Ohio City Galley has closed its doors. Looking for an alternative dining destination to replace this spot on our list? Try Sichuan Hot Pot!
Ohio City is an artist's dream. This quirky neighborhood has always been the heart and soul of Cleveland's foodie scene, thanks in part to the presence of the West Side Market. Ohio City Galley opened last fall, and they have built their identity around allowing freedom to undiscovered chefs. It features four restaurant concepts in one epic place, accompanied by a bar that serves 30 varieties of craft beer. This is the perfect place to meet up with friends, especially on live entertainment nights.
8. Larder: A Curated Delicatessen & Bakery (1455 W 29th St., Cleveland)
Eastern Europe is home to some of the best comfort food in the world, and this Hingetown hot spot is inspired by this delicious region. The Ohio City Firehouse sets the scene for their menu to take center stage with sandwiches, soups, veggie boards, and baked goodies that ensure you'll never go hungry. The real trick here is deciding what to dine on!
9. Affogato Cat Cafe (761 Starkweather Ave., Cleveland)
Animal lovers have been freaking out since this cafe opened in Cleveland earlier this year. Affogato allows you to sip on coffee and play with kitties searching for new homes. Their menu features cat-themed beverages and ice cream treats, and this is one cafe where you're likely to fall in love. After all, love is a four-legged word.
There's much to love in Cleveland's dining scene, and each year seems to bring more and more surprises. Which of these destinations are you most excited to visit?
Craving more Cleveland fun? Check out last year's list of epic new eateries.
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