Once upon a time, The Flats was a rather unsavory area. In fact, thus was its reputation for decades, and the area has only recently recovered from it. The area serves as a shipping powerhouse and, since the 1980s, a bustling entertainment district. But what was once a crime-ridden region is now chic, full of quirky restaurants right on the water's edge. You see, the Cuyahoga River carefully cuts this area in two, creating a unique environment that cannot be rivaled anywhere else in Cleveland. If you would like to experience the flavors of this quirky area, you must check out these delectable restaurants:
1. Alley Cat Oyster Bar, 1056 Old River Road, Cleveland
There is something irresistible about enjoying seafood right on the shore. Of course, the Cuyahoga River is not even home to many of the sea-dwelling critters that grace plates at the Alley Cat, but it certainly sets an incredible atmosphere. Plus, the food's also pretty incredible. Enjoy classics like clam chowder, or try something more adventurous like the Seafood Quesadilla or Surf-n-Turf Burger.
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2. Luca Italian Cuisine, 2100 Superior Viaduct, Cleveland
The ever-charming West Bank is the perfect destination for this chic Italian eatery. The views offered from this restaurant are incredible, but not quite as incredible as their unique menu. Want to be blown away? Try the Sacchetti Al Tartufo Bianco, a dish of practically mythical flavors. Don't forget to wash your meal down with a cocktail, and definitely save room for dessert. Trust me, your tastebuds will thank you later.
3. Bold Food & Drink, 1121 W 10th Street, Cleveland
Now, we're taking this virtual tour across the river to the East Bank, where American classics are served up with a flair for the dramatic. Their menu features steak, seafood, and everything in between. Try something memorable like the Maine Lobster Nachos, pictured above.
Anyone in the mood for bar food? There's no better place to grab quick eats and sample a few drinks than Harbor Inn, which boasts of being Cleveland's oldest dive bar. Don't forget to play a few of the fun bar games before you leave!
Bring on the burgers! At Flipside, a plethora of mouthwatering options await fans of American classics. But these burgers aren't quite your traditional burger. These are hand-crafted, utilizing the finest ingredients, like local beef, to create a surprising flavor that will delight your palate.
6. Dante’s Inferno Flats, 1059 Old River Road, Cleveland
What self-respecting Clevelander doesn't love a good pizza? At Dante's, you'll actually encounter the best pizza in The Flats, and you'll have the opportunity to get a bit adventurous with your order, too. Choose a pizza piled high with seafood or goat cheese, or stick to traditional classics like pepperoni or sausage.
Come for the food, stay for the fun. That's what attracts locals to this hidden gem of a sports bar, which features over 6,500 square feet for fun activities. Warm up with a bowl of chili (pictured), or chow down on a thick-crusted pizza. During the warmer months, a volleyball league utilizes the site for an epic game followed by an unforgettable meal.
8. Lago East Bank, 1091 West 10th Street, Cleveland
Looking for a spectacular ambiance in addition to unforgettable entrees? Look no further than Lago, which features Italian and American classics with a bit of seafood thrown in the mix. Don't forget to finish off your meal with tiramisu!
9. Thirsty Dog East Bank, 1075 Old River Road, Cleveland
Sometimes, nothing tackles cravings quite like pub grub. Craft brews pair perfectly with burgers and other pub classics, making Thirsty Dog perfect for a quick bite or a casual dinner in a unique atmosphere. Want to try something unforgettable? Order a veggie burger for flavor that can't be beat.
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The Flats has enjoyed decades of entertainment, but it only recently underwent a transformation that brought it from drab to fab. Today, this waterfront district features incredible dining, unforgettable live music shows, and a beautiful city backdrop where memories can be made. What is your favorite restaurant in The Flats?
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
One Of The Best Restaurants In Ohio Is Hiding In A Small Cleveland Area Town
The Farmer's Rail is a popular farm-to-table restaurant and market with three locations in the Cleveland suburbs, known for its locally-sourced meats and baked goods.
It's true that there's nothing like dining in Cleveland, but the suburbs have their own brand of foodie magic brewing, too. In small towns throughout the metropolitan area, brand new locally-owned restaurants are popping up every day, ready to join your growing bucket list of dining options in the Cleveland suburbs and hoping to become the best Ohio restaurant. One of the coolest dining options in the region is still a newcomer to the dining scene, having opened its first restaurant in 2018. If you haven't visited this cool local eatery yet, start working up your appetite now as it's one of the best restaurants in Ohio. The Farmer's Rail in Hudson reviews have been glowing!
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Congratulations, you've just stumbled upon a new restaurant concept that has taken the suburbs by storm.
This is The Farmer's Rail, and it's just one of three locations that locals in the Northeast Ohio suburbs are quietly raving about. With storefronts in Bath, Hudson, and Cuyahoga Falls, there's a triad of locations to choose from for your convenience.
The Farmer's Rail is part market, part butcher, part restaurant, and all local.
While artisanal meats bring in the crowds, there's so much here when it comes to niche offerings. If you're looking for spices you can't find elsewhere, you might find them here.
Rustically themed and aromatically rich, stepping inside is immediately reminiscent of the makers and growers that bring the food to your plate.
You might even notice some nods in the business to Brunty Farms. This is the owners' business and the predecessor to The Farmer's Rail. In fact, this marketplace-restaurant concept was opened to complement the products from their pasture-raised farm... it provided the owners with quality control from the beginning until the meat reaches your hand.
In fact, it's hard not to think about the local element of this business.
In addition to locally raised meats, there are oodles of local brands lining the shelves. Some are familiar, as these brands have become more mainstream in recent years, but other offerings are goodies you might only find at a farmer's market otherwise.
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As soon as you step inside, you'll likely find your stomach growling.
Don't be alarmed... that heavenly aroma is just the incredible flavor sensations being prepared in the kitchen. The menus are modest, but each item is big in flavor. From salads to farm-to-table meats, there's something for everyone here.
But whatever you do, make sure you save room for dessert!
I recommend the cinnamon rolls, through and through. Don't be afraid to check out the discounted day-old bakery, too... it's still delicious, and it'll help you get more bang for your buck.
Oh, and it doesn't hurt to keep a cooler in your trunk... you might need it for this restaurant run.
This is absolutely one spot you'll want to keep on your radar. With so many amazing specialty and seasonal offerings, it seems like there's something new popping up here every day!
And this may go without saying, but don't forget to bring your appetite!
Sure, you could snack on sides and soups if you're craving something light, but the entrees are where it's at. From mouthwateringly fresh handhelds to crispy, crunchy fried entrees, you'll have a hard time saying no to the delicious entrees.
While the locations of The Farmer's Rail are suburban, the painstaking care and passion of local farmers and makers are etched into every aspect of this small-town business. Clevelanders love to support locals, and this neat business is local to the core.
From fresh meat to baked goods and more, there's so much to love about The Farmer's Rail.
Check out the hours and locations to find the nearest restaurant to you. You're going to love this one!
There's so much to love about this cool Cleveland-area restaurant. The Farmer's Rail is a market, it's a butcher shop, and it's one of the best dining options in the Cleveland suburbs. Maybe even among the best restaurants in Ohio! My favorite storefront from this brand is the newly opened Hudson location, but each has its own charm. Make sure to follow The Farmer's Rail on Facebook for current specials. While you're hanging out in Hudson, explore the town and find out some of the other fun things to do here:
