50 Best Restaurants in Cleveland and Northeast Ohio

Use this interactive map to find a great bite near you. Scroll down for the full list. Don't miss our 10 Best New Restaurants or our reader-voted Best New Restaurant and Silver Spoon Awards.

Abundance

Chef Liu Fang’s pandemic project and your short-lived hobby are not the same. A pregnant Fang immigrated here from China in the early days of COVID. When her Chardon-native husband returned to tend to the couple’s microbrewery business, he was detained for weeks by the Chinese government. Fang made buns to pass the worried time. Upon his release, the pair built Abundance, turning what was initially a pop-up into a modern take on Northern Chinese cuisine. Better days are here now, as the restaurant, located in a historic diner car, just went through an extensive renovation from Amba and Zhug interior designer Kelley Shaffer, who kept the endearing-but-modest spirit and elevated it into the type of transformative experience she’s known for. Try This: Though Abundance recently launched a great spring menu, the dumplings ($18) sampler, served in chili oil, is still a required order. Follow Fang’s recommendation of eating each of the four varieties in order, from the tame cabbage, kale and spring peas to the spicy Sichuan pork sausage. 1974 Lee Road, Cleveland Heights, 216-785-9959, a-bun.com

Further Reading: Inside Liu Fang and Carl Setzer's Contemporary Chinese Come-Up Story

Acqua di Dea

No restaurant captures the heart of Downtown Cleveland quite like Acqua di Dea at night. The summer patio immerses diners in the big city hustle and bustle of West Sixth and St. Clair. Inside is intimate. Under low lighting, the moonlit sky — and if you get the right seat, the colorful lights of Terminal Tower — leak in through half-rounded windows, decorating the weathered brick walls of the century-old building. Way older, but relevant as ever, are the techniques that drive the Italian seafood menu, served with a purpose and paired with wine curated by owner and sommelier Lola Jacaj. The experience she’s cultivated immerses you in the oceanic Old World where she was raised. Try This: Ravioli di Granchio ($36) is jumbo lump crab dressed with lemon zest, chive oil and saffron-infused cream with a glass of sauvignon blanc ($10, $20). 216-329-0700, 500 W. St. Clair Ave., Cleveland, acquadidea.com

Amba

Dark, cocoon-like walls and glowing lunar sconces wash the space in a soft amber haze, creating a moody hideaway that hums with energy. Chef Douglas Katz leans toward bold, Indian-inspired flavors through a spread-heavy lineup of small plates. Smoky, tangy and herby elements build across the table, including in the cocktails from the adjacent lounge, encouraging diners to mix, match and layer each bite. The clay bread ($6) is a non-negotiable, arriving soft and blistered, ready to scoop up the vibrant dips and sauces that define the experience. That sense of contrast carries through the rest of the menu, where crisp textures, bright herbs and punchy spices come together in dishes that feel both playful and precise, capturing Amba’s flavor-first approach. Try This: Build your perfect bite with chickpea fritters’ ($13) green papaya slaw and plum amba, Turkish fried eggs ($12) and warm spinach dip ($10) brightened with lemon and garam masala. 1430 W. 28th St., Cleveland, 216-417-6718, ambacle.com

Bad Medicine

First, it’s indie pop. Then, it’s electronic dance music. Then, it’s heavy rock. All while eating a steak on dainty china. Though the plain white storefront with tinted windows would go missing if you weren’t looking for it, the hi-fi vinyl bar is far from subtle. Opened in 2024, the dark space with a red hue centers around a tabletop record player loudly spinning classic and contemporary tracks. It’s a fusion of the lively, connective experience fostered at a club and the comfortable, slow atmosphere that envelopes a restaurant. Ingenious spins on familiar bar bites, like the Bar Steak ($36) with fried potatoes, reflect that essence, while remixed drinks, such as a Mexican Firing Squad ($15) with fino sherry, pomegranate and hibiscus, electrocute a familiar sip into something exciting. Try This: The Fried Caesar ($12) swaps lettuce for Brussels sprouts with all the same savory salad toppings. It’s infuriatingly delicious, the type of dish you’ll talk about for days. 13334 Lorain Ave., Cleveland, badmedicinebar.com

Beet Jar

Eating your vegetables doesn’t have to be scary, kids. Not at Beet Jar, at least. In a funky, minimalist Hingetown shop with a few tables and coolers of fresh ingredients (there’s also a stand at Van Aken), breakfast bites, sandwiches and smoothies get the vegan treatment. Let’s be honest: We love a deli sandwich, but they often lack flavor diversity and texture. Not so with the Airport Sandwich ($14), which perfectly layers crunchy veggies and cuts a garlic sauce with spicy jalapenos. It’ll have you thinking about sammies in a whole new way. Try This: We typically avoid faux meat when eating vegetarian, but the Chopped Cheese Sami ($14) is a faithful recreation of the bodega classic. 2600 Detroit Ave., Cleveland; 3441 Tuttle Road, Shaker Heights, beetjar.com

Further Reading: Beet Jar's Expansion Sets Up Its Next Chapter

Batuqui

At both its residential brick Victorian building in Chagrin Falls and its historic, renovated church in Cleveland’s Larchmere neighborhood, Batuqui has a knack for reviving classic architecture and filling it with flavor. The blue Larchmere building, adorned with colorful tassels along the front gate, is a handsome addition to the artsy neighborhood. So is its menu. From the vibrant, limey caipirinha cocktails ($11) to the feijoada ($38-$41) party dish flavored with bacon, sausages and a dollop of tangy tomato relish, these cultural delicacies are a doorway to transportive culinary escapism. Try This: Batuqui grills some of the best steaks in Cleveland. Order the churrasco de picanha ($44-$49) for a tender, bold bite. 12624 Larchmere Blvd., Cleveland, 216-801-0227; 17 E. Orange St., Chagrin Falls; 440-600-2122, batuquicleveland.com

Cafe Everest 

If ever there was a culinary cure for Cleveland’s grayest days, it might be a batch of soupy, flavorful jhol momo ($10.99-$11.99) from this beloved spot in Bellaire-Puritas. These dumplings, available in chicken or vegetarian versions, have earned a cult following and a rightful standing as one of the very-best dishes in Cleveland. But we urge you to keep exploring the five-year-old restaurant’s expansive menu of Nepalese fare, preferably over a cup of hot tea. Other highlights include crunchy pani puri ($6.99) and the flavorful chicken pakora ($7.99). For less adventurous diners, the butter chicken ($13.99) is a surefire crowd-pleaser. Try This: The jhol momo. Never skip it. 14304 Puritas Ave., Cleveland, facebook.com/cafeeverest21

Cent's Pizza & Goods

There’s seemingly a pizzeria on every street corner in Cleveland, but none of them can quite match the swagger of Cent’s. Chef Vincent Morelli’s place is equal parts flavor and vibe; you’ll rarely see a photo of a dinner of the Ohio City dining room that’s not bathed in the red glow of the restaurant’s tomato-shaped neon light. Morelli, a former fashion industry pro, brings a strong sense of style to both the interior decor, the “Goods” section of gifts and goods, and, of course, his flavorful, wood-fired pies ($16-$22-plus), including the nona-inspired, meatball-topped Gravy ($21) pie. Try This: A meal at Cent’s isn’t complete without a few chomps of steamy Wonder Bread ($12) scooped into butter or chili crisp ($3). 5010 Lorain Ave., Cleveland, instagram.com/centspizza

Cloak & Dagger

Get lost in the latest chapter of this literary lounge, which cracks the spine on a new menu of vegan cocktails and food every couple months. Dark and moody, the library-themed cocktail lounge has made a name for itself with its house-made syrups and fresh ingredients, but the food, entirely vegan, is reason enough to visit. Not feeling like low light? The street-side patio makes for a refreshing summer sip. In mid-April, the bar launched its 21st unique menu, "Down the Rabbit Hole," inspired by Alice in Wonderland, which features fragrant and earthy flavors for spring. Try This: The Rabbit’s Foot ($16), a spicy margarita of sorts, is always available, no matter the chapter. 2399 W. 11th St., Cleveland, cloakanddaggercle.com

Cordelia

Cordelia describes its menu as “modern Grandma,” but most of us didn’t grow up with a grandma who knew her way around food quite like this. A few of chef Vinnie Cimino’s most popular dinner items make it onto the Sunday brunch menu, like the can’t-miss carrot muhummara ($11) and the burger box with Koolaid pickles ($23). But the weekend service gets a few exclusives of its own, too, like a refined take on French toast “fries,” ($16) served with maple cream and an homage to Jimmy Dean’s classic breakfast bowl that features Akron-style jojos smothered in pork gravy and sunny-side-up eggs ($16). Opened in 2022, the spacious dining room, filled with kitschy Midwestern decor, feels lively without tipping into chaos, and its central East Fourth Street location makes it a perfect starting point for a day spent downtown. Try this: The Burger Box ($23) is the big, shareable beef patty that started it all. More refined? Try whatever is the fish of the day from West Side Market's Kate's Fish. 2058 East Fourth St., 216-230-2355, cordeliacle.com

Read More: Rosy, the New Restaurant From Cordelia, Reminds Chef Vinnie Cimino Why He Loves to Cook

Chez Francois

Since opening nearly four decades ago, Chez Francois has been one of Northeast Ohio’s fundamental special-occasion spots. Diners can choose the level of “special” for their occasion. The white tablecloth experience in the classic main dining room still enacts a dress code, while its sister concepts Touché Bistro and Riverfront Cafe offer more casual experiences. In any of these spaces, customers enjoy pristine riverfront views, where they can watch boats go up and down the Vermilion River, along with top-notch French food, wine and service. Try This: Seafood on the river feels right, and you’ll get a lot of it in the Assiette de Coquillage au Basilic ($62), a pasta dish served with heaps of shrimp, scallops, mussels, clams and escargot. 555 Main St., Vermilion, 440-967-0630, chezfrancois.com

CleaveLand Grocers & Grill

Whether you keep strict halal or just appreciate a darn good burger, Cleveland’s only Pakistani grocery store aims to please. Chef Fasih Syed is serious about the “grill” part of the name, with a menu that ranges from samosas ($9.99 for five) and paratha rolls ($14.99) to cheesesteaks ($16.99-$26.99) and chopped cheese sandwiches ($15.99 and up). But here, it’s all about the smash burgers, sometimes stacked as many as three times. On your way out of the Midtown location, visit the store, which offers various Middle Eastern spices. Try This: The Fish Burger ($16.99) is not actually fish, but the chef’s namesake  creation: grilled and raw onions, tomatoes, hot honey and house barbecue sauce on two spicy patties with thick cuts of bacon. 8225 Carnegie Ave., Cleveland, 216-229-7864; 17024 Pearl Road, Strongsville, 440-210-4886, clegng.com

Coppia

If you’ve heard of the “quiet luxury” trend in fashion, Coppia is where that concept translates into food. There’s nothing flashy about the space, which is warm, low-lit and dignified; nor is there anything over-the-top about chefs Hedy and Talia Trovato’s menu, which is curated and concise. What makes Coppia so impressive is how tightly it’s edited and how impeccably it delivers, with dishes that consistently balance richness and restraint — like scallops over saffron risotto and spring peas ($48) and the steak bravo filet mignon served with potatoes and cipollini onions ($65). Importantly, they also fill you up, making it feel well worth your while (and your wallet’s, too). This isn’t an on-a-whim dinner; it’s one you plan for, look forward to and dream about. Try This: Crab cakes served with red pepper jam and remoulade ($17). 1731 Lost Nation Road, Willoughby, 440-375-5956, coppiarestaurant.com

Our Review: Coppia's Chef Duo Hedy and Talia Trovato Make Fine Dining Feel Like an Occasion Again

Edwins Leadership & Restaurant Institute

In the sprawling footprint of the former Nighttown jazz venue, Brandon Chrostowski’s change-making concept, which earned him a James Beard Impact award in 2025, has found more room to grow. More tables; more diners; more room in the basement classroom, allowing for bigger cohorts of formerly incarcerated Clevelanders to train in Edwins’ culinary program; and more ideas. Beyond its fancy white tablecloth experience in the opulent dining room, lowkey options arrive in the brasserie, which serves its own menu of well-composed burger lyonnaise ($15), ratatouille ($12) and more. There’s even a classy kids’ menu. (Chicken tenders ($8) anyone?) For a high-end experience, stay in the dining room, where attentive servers share a gastronomical journey through dishes like scallops and caviar ($30) and rabbit leg ($37). Try This: Chrostowski’s signature dish remains the sumptuous paupiette de merou ($38): a hunk of fish wrapped in thin-cut potato. 12383 Cedar Road, Cleveland Heights, 216-921-3333, edwinsrestaurant.org

Our Review: In Move to Cleveland Heights, Edwins Keeps Nighttown's Legacy Alive While Building Upon Its Own

Fahrenheit

When you’re dining at Fahrenheit, there’s no way to forget where you are. Its prime location on Public Square has one of the best views in the Land, putting the city on full display (especially when the sun goes down and the skyline gets glittery). The massive, modern indoor space is no less impressive, with floor-to-ceiling windows, three buzzing bars and a rooftop patio that fills up quickly when the weather cooperates. And, oh, yeah, the food: With a glitzy, Asian-influenced menu that includes sushi, steaks and shellfish towers, chef Rocco Whalen’s offers options for whatever kind of night you’re in the mood for. The neon sign on the way to the bathroom says “SMOKESHOW,” and that’s really Fahrenheit’s whole deal: making you feel like you’re the absolute coolest person in town. Try This: Apple-glazed Wagyu short ribs with teriyaki lo mein ($52) exemplifies Whalen’s interest in Asian flavors. 55 Public Square, Suite 150, Cleveland, 216-781-8858. fahrenheitrestaurants.com

Our Review: Fahrenheit Brings Its Show-Stopping Dining Experience From Tremont to Downtown Cleveland

Flour

Bread is the first clue you’re in good hands at Flour. The basket lands warm at the table, and from there, the menu moves confidently through hand-cut pastas, prime proteins and wood-fired pizzas. Appetizers like the Big A$$ Meatball ($17.50) and fried olives ($13.50) are favorites. Chef Matt Mytro’s second location, one of the early anchors at the rising Valor Acres development in Brecksville, is a glass-walled restaurant where the evening sun fills the dining room — a reminder that patio season is coming soon. The staff is prompt and confident, and drinks like the Black Fig ($15) and Flour Fizz ($15) bring the same attitude. Try This: The chicken Parmesan ($32.50) arrives lavished in marinara, aged provolone, pecorino and bucatini. More than enough for two meals or a partner to share, the size of the chicken breast makes you think this bird worked out with the heavy weights. 5720 Independence Drive, Suite 100, Brecksville, 440-340-3750; 34205 Chagrin Blvd., Moreland Hills, 216-464-3700, flourrestaurant.com

Ginko 

In prior lives, chef Dante Boccuzzi made his name working as an executive chef at Nobu in Milan and at New York City’s Aureole, where he earned a Michelin star. Luckily for Northeast Ohioans, he’s spent the past decade-and-a-half establishing a mini empire of restaurants in his hometown, including the recent Masu, which is on this year’s Best New Restaurant list. Many of the chef’s earliest openings (like the eponymous Dante, which could be on this list in a different year) remain tried-and-true today. Ginko, the stylish sushi standout tucked in the basement of the flagship Tremont restaurant, creates some of the best rolls in the city. Each dish is a practice in precision and selection: the freshest possible fish are flown in from overseas suppliers to achieve perfection in every bite. Taking a seat at the U-shaped counter, surrounded by decor that lands somewhere between Vegas and a Tokyo whiskey bar, diners don’t just eat — they become part of an intimate experience that catapulted the city’s sushi scene into its own art form. Put simply, it’s a vibe. Try This: Eye of the Tiger ($14) is a roll that pairs oysters with tangy pickled vegetables, eel sauce and spicy mayo in the ultimate flavor combo. 2247 Professor Ave. B, Cleveland, 216-274-1202, danteboccuzzi.com

Good Company

Is anything more nostalgic than a diner melt ($15) and a snickerdoodle milkshake ($8) with house-made ice cream? Perhaps not, but this nostalgic eatery tries anyway with a lineup of accessible starters, sandwiches, and wings marinated and braised for 72 hours. While the original Battery Park location, which may be moving, near Gordon Square, is worth a trip, those down I-77 South rejoiced upon the arrival of the recently opened Akron location. Try This: Focus on the good part with the Fried Chicken Skins ($7), tossed in nori salt for a potato chip-like experience and served with ranch and pickled celery. 1200 W. 76th St., Cleveland, 216-331-0318, goodcompanycle.com; 60 S. Maple St., Akron, 330-252-9099, goodcompanyakron.com

Heart of Gold

With light streaming into the white, minimalist dining room, dining at this Lorain Avenue eatery just feels easy. The smash burger ($15) and the fried chicken sandwich ($14), both on a milk bun from Leavened bakery, as well as stellar cocktails, have defined the restaurant since its opening in 2021. All that’s still there, but in recent years, owner Jonah Oryszak and chef Joe Zegarac have quietly raised the stakes, ditching the pandemic-era self-service model and adding more refined salads and entrees. Try This: The spring menu’s snap pea salad ($14) is refreshing, cutting bitter kale with creamy burrata, with yuzu pepper vinaigrette on top. 4133 Lorain Ave., Cleveland, 216-938-8711, heartofgoldcle.com

Il Rione

Everyone talks about the wait, but we’re here to remind you that this pizzeria is worth it. Just outside Gordon Square Arts District, owners Brian Moss and Brian Holleran blend rustic decor with a rock ‘n’ roll soundtrack that’s perfect for date night or a feast with friends. One Redditor on the national r/Pizza thread describes the pie as, “It’s like an NY slice had a love child with a Neapolitan pizza.” We’re the writers, but credit where it’s due. So, try to snag a bar seat or put aside some time on a Friday night. Enjoy a beer at Stone Mad Pub, across the street, as you wait to be seated. If you’d really rather be home, check out Il Rione’s new slice shop, Lil’ Ronnies, in Tremont. Try This: Most pizzas wouldn’t dare tickle your palate with notes of salty, sweet and citrusy like the Speck Pie ($23/$28), with cured ham, pistachios, lemon ricotta and hot honey, plus the signature slightly bitter crust with occasional wood-fire char. 1303 W. 65th Street, Cleveland, 216-282-1451, ilrionepizzeria.com

JoJo’s Bar

The lively Italian American steak bar imbues a sense of occasion. Classic, with a glossy bar, globe chandeliers and crisp finishes that nod to tradition, the restaurant’s white tablecloth service sets the tone, making it a natural fit for celebrations or a dressed-up night out with friends. While prime steaks anchor the menu, the fresh pasta stands out, with delicate, rich noodles and layered sauces that showcase the kitchen’s attention to detail. The Big Wagyu Meatball ($20) pairs rich, tender beef with bright pomodoro, warmed ricotta and fresh basil, striking a balance between indulgent and comforting as the knife glides through with ease, yielding a soft, melt-in-your-mouth bite. Across the board, thoughtful preparation and elevated presentations define a kitchen focused on refining familiar flavors. Try This: The classic high-low dish, steak frites ($45), gets an upgrade with Wagyu beef and a bearnaise sauce. 87 West St., Chagrin Falls, 440-394-8120, jojosbar.com

Julia’s 1902

Below the Willoughby House inn, this fine dining restaurant is as dignified and stately as the nearly 124-year-old mansion it calls home. Ornate decor, vintage art and eclectic memorabilia fit into every corner and cranny like generational heirlooms. Guatemalan chef Jose Coronado leans into the journey with dishes like the charred octopus ($21), with aji aioli, bacon orange glaze, chimichurri, fingerling potatoes, fresno peppers and micro melon. Build your own bite with the expansive Surf & Turf Yakitori ($50), offering individual skewers of sweet scallops, wagyu beef and melt-in-your-mouth pork belly aside a tropical pineapple chutney, spicy serrano aioli, fermented onions and crispy potatoes. Each intentional moment moves the dinner along with effortless grace until the check arrives, tucked inside an old book. It’s ideal for a quiet date, a family dinner or a special night out without the bustle of the city. Try This: The short rib croquettes ($19), Japanese panko balls of potato, caramelized onions, smoky aioli and more, are crowd favorites. 37819 Euclid Ave., Willoughby, 440-306-8332, julias1902.com

Juneberry Table

When you want an unhurried brunch that feels like home — but leveled up from anything you could make on your own — this is the spot for it. Neutral tones, fresh flowers and sun-drenched tables invite you to sit and stay for a while over coffee or breakfast cocktails. And nearly everything on chef Karen Small’s seasonal, locally driven menu highlights ingredients from at least one other beloved small business: a beef brisket burrito ($18) with mushrooms from Killbuck Valley in Burbank, a yogurt and granola bowl ($9) with fruit from Rittman Orchards in Doylestown, the Ploughman's Platter ($16) with shaved ham from NaKyrsie Meats in Geneva. With just 35 seats and a waitlist that often extends past an hour, Juneberry Table is always bustling but still somehow remains an oasis of calm. Try This: Sweet potato cinnamon bun with brown butter cream cheese icing ($8). 3900 Lorain Ave., 216-331-0338, juneberrytable.com

Our Review: Juneberry Is a Stunner in Cleveland's Brunch Scene

Larder Delicatessen & Bakery

By now, any self-respecting Cleveland foodie has been to Larder, like, a million times. The modern Jewish deli, opened in a historic Hingetown firehouse in 2018, quickly became a pillar of Cleveland’s dining community. We keep coming back, however, because the restaurant, centered around experimentation with koji, a Japanese mold used both to add umami flavor and as a curing agent in dishes like the famed Larder pastrami ($17) and that chef Jeremy Umansky literally wrote the James Beard Award-winning book on, continues to explore new flavors and local ingredients with daily specials. Try This: While the pastrami ($17) and the fried chicken ($14) are rites of passage, the pickle section is worth exploring, often featuring celery, beets, carrots and other seasonal veggies pickled and packed with curry, chili and more. 1455 W 29th Street, Cleveland, 216-912-8203, larderdb.com

The Last Page

Inside an ostentatious gold patterned dining room at Pinecrest shopping center, The Last Page’s menu reads like a passport of global flavors. Small plates, such as the Cracklin’ Wings ($17), dusted with a “ghost” sweet and spicy rub, are designed to be explored and shared. Each dish leans into contrast and precision, where presentation is part of the experience as much as the flavor itself. The pork belly ($17) is a standout, braised until it melts apart with a fork, balanced by bright charred fennel and a rich miso bagna cauda. Even the simple salad ($14) surprises, with crisp greens, nutty sesame and crispy shallots lifted by a sharp ginger-soy vinaigrette that brings a puckering bite. Cocktails lean experimental, from the Tomato Essence Martini ($16), a savory, clarified mix of vodka, tomato and olive oil finished with cracked pepper and basil, to lighter builds like the Cucumber Clouds ($16), airy and citrusy with a soft foam finish. Try This: Broken egg fried rice ($22) with kimchi, spinach and egg yolk. 100 Park Ave., Suite 128, Orange, 216-465-1008, thelastpagerestaurant.com

LJ Shanghai

LJ Shanghai hasn’t deterred customers with its cash-only system, reinstated at the start of 2025 to help keep rising food costs down. Nor has it pushed folks away with its intimidating “This property is protected by Smith and Wesson” sign taped to the front door. This bustling, uncomplicated AsiaTown hot spot has rightfully earned a ravenous fanbase for its small curated menu of Shanghainese noodles, soups and sides, all inspired by owners LJ and Edmond Tsui’s family recipes. Comfort arrives steaming here, in the form of soup dumplings ($8), pan fried beef daoxiao noodle ($17), beef curry soup ($10) and cups of tea ($1). Try This: Soup dumplings, in two bites. On bite one, slurp a bit of soup out of the dumpling — only after puncturing the vessel to release its scorching steam. Before the second bite, add a dab of soy sauce and vinegar for a kick of flavor. 3142 Superior Ave., Cleveland, 216-400-6936, instagram.com/lj_shanghai

Locos Street Tacos & Burrito

We’re always on the lookout for a great taco. So when we saw Locos Tacos, a colorful taco stand with picnic table seating and a drive-through, we nearly caused an accident as we swerved into the driveway, tires squealing. Luckily, the grub, from the birria tacos ($3.50) in a rich consomme dipping sauce to the Big Mac Smash Taco ($8), a burger patty pressed into a tortilla, was worth the danger. One of the secrets behind this family-run spot — other than the fresh ingredients and 24-hour braised beef — is the tortilla made by nearby Tortilleria La Bamba. The flavorful shell holds up with even the juiciest bites. Try This: The street corn in a cup ($4) is a hearty helping of off-the-cob corn smothered in creamy sauce and peppered with spicy seasoning. 4760 W. 130th St., Cleveland, 216-331-2457, instagram.com/locos_street_tacos

Mallorca

After nearly 30 years Downtown, this Spanish restaurant should be on every Clevelander’s bucket list. It’s as much about the experience — the service, the big swanky room, the steam coming off the cast iron-served paella — as it is about the food and wine, though they excel, too. On a recent visit, long and leisurely, as is the custom, the hospitality, for which Mallorca earned a semifinalist slot in the James Beard Awards, was nearly performative, with flurries of Español deftly guiding us across the many regions of Spain and Portugal. Many of the dishes lean simple, like the crispy chorizo a la plancha ($19), where high heat turns the sausages into cups, like on a pepperoni pizza, or patatas bravas ($15), garlic-infused and dusted with smoked paprika. Much like Mallorca itself, it’s a good reminder of returning to longtime classics. Try This: The sizzling paella valenciana ($58) is an artful arrangement of lobster, shrimp, scallops, mussels, clams, chicken and chorizo over saffron rice. 1390 W. Ninth St., Cleveland, 216-687-9494, mallorcacle.com

Marble Room Steaks & Raw Bar

There’s always a conundrum when you go to Marble Room: Should I look up, or should I look down? Either way is a spectacular view. The restaurant is pure Art Deco, Sixth City swank. Built in the late 1800s by the three sons of President James Garfield as Cleveland’s first skyscraper, marble columns, Italian marble wainscoting and vaulted, coffered ceilings inspire awe in this former bank, which still makes use of the vault by hosting private dinners there. On the plate, however, is an American throwback, too. Find classics like Oyster Rockefeller ($20), beef tartare ($22), wedge salad ($15) and deep dive of seafood. Of course, you’re coming here for the steaks. You can’t go wrong with any of the 12 well-executed options. Try This: Served in a custom safe deposit box, the double-smoked (once tableside) Australian wagyu bone-in ribeye ($200) is a show-stopper. 623 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, 216-523-7000, marbleroomcle.com

Martha on the Fly

All of Cleveland is your brunch spot with this takeout breakfast staple. If you can't snag one of a few seats inside this busy, retro diner, enjoy sandwiches built around rectangular egg patties, a play on the McDonald’s classic on a fresh scotch roll with house-made sausage or bacon, on a streetside bench, in your car or at your kitchen table. If you do take it home, order an extra serving of cornmeal fries ($6) with tangy sunshine sauce. Eat them on the road, as they're best piping hot. Pro Tip: Order ahead online. Try This: You've never quite had bologna like the house-made cut served on the Shirley ($14) with caramelized onion and tomato jam. 2173 Professor Ave., Cleveland, marthaonthefly.com

Mason's Creamery

Jesse Mason and Helen Qin are among a select few restaurateurs who can inspire diners to brave winter weather for a primarily outdoor eatery. The draw? A limited-time lineup of specialty ramen, Korean corn dogs, gyoza and crispy rice, which it first launched in 2019. But when warmer weather retires the heated, covered seating area, packed picnic tables of locals slurping house-made ice cream, with flavors that rotate daily, remind us what has made Mason’s an Ohio City cornerstone since 2014. Try This: When it’s cold, pair crispy spam musubi ($6.50) with pork tonkotsu ramen ($17) warms you up. When it heats up, a cup of ube ($6) ice cream, a subtly sweet and earthy flavor derived from purple yams native to the Philippines cools you down. 4401 Bridge Ave., Cleveland, 216-762-1095, masonscreamery.com

Never Say Dive

Everyone loves a dive, but not everybody loves the sticky floors and shady characters that come with it. Enter Never Say Dive, an irreverent take on the kind of classic bar Clevelanders know so well: equal parts neighborhood hangout and destination, with a lived-in look that encourages you to settle in like a regular. The difference? The menu here isn’t an afterthought. Chef-driven small plates put other hometown haunts to shame, and a top-notch cocktail program from co-owner Dan Watson makes clear this isn’t your normal shot-and-beer establishment. (Hey, they warned you. It’s right there in the name!) If you come here with plans to grab nothing more than a drink, don’t be surprised if you end up staying longer — and eating more — than you expected. Try This: Nothing encapsulates chef John Haggerty’s culinary philosophy better than the Kobe beef Dive Dog ($16) with mayo, chips and caviar. 4497 Broadview Road, Cleveland, neversaydivecle.com

Noble Beast Brewing Co.

Chef James Redford gives a whole new meaning to “brewery food” at Noble Beast. Sure, you can always order a bangin’ burger ($17), crispy chicken sandwich ($15) or its famed dry-rub wings ($10), but flavors surpass fried-food favorites and lean into farm-fresh fare, including a tart Corsica salad ($12) or a Naan Mi ($16): a flavorful flattened version of the Vietnamese banh mi sandwich, served on grilled bread crafted out of spent grains from the beer-making process. Since opening in 2017, the brewery has earned numerous awards for its IPAs, sours, pilsners and lagers, all while forging a vibrant hot spot on this block of Lakeside Avenue in Downtown Cleveland. Its popularity has allowed it to a new endeavor: a splashly biergarten that’s currently under construction in Ohio City. Try This: The restaurant’s best sandwich is vegan: The General Tsofu ($14) blends sweet, tart and savory flavors together on a hoagie by local bakery Fluffy Duck. The flagship Union Pils Bohemian Lager ($10) goes with everything. 1470 Lakeside Ave. E., Cleveland, 216-417-8588, noblebeastbeer.com

Further Reading: Noble Beast Brewing Co. Is Planning a Year-Round Beer Garden in Ohio City

Ohio Pie Co.

“Let it rip” — and that’s an order, from Ohio Pie Co. The pizzeria encourages customers to order inventive, over-the-top pies from its locations in Brunswick, Parma and Rocky River.  Whether it’s on the vegan, specialty or secret menus, these off-the-wall pizzas satisfy cravings you didn’t even know you had. But the best way to order from these beloved spots is by keeping up with the pizza’s near-weekly specials, which are crafted up by imaginative employees. Craving macaroni and cheese? Pickles? Potato chips? Mashed potatoes? They’ve got a pie for you. If you’re not sure, try the Fancy Pep ($14 small, $19 medium, $24 large) with ricotta and house-made hot honey. These punks push the very limits of what pizza can be with their “Ohio-style” slices, and we love them for it. Try This: Don’t stop at the za; Ohio Pie Co. also makes the best small batches of cookies ($3.50 each) in town. Various locations, ohiopieco.com

Pier W

Perched above Lake Erie since 1965, Pier W delivers the city’s most luxurious all-you-can-eat brunch — and one of the most breathtaking waterfront dining views, with boats drifting by and sunsets that stop you mid-conversation. Long anchored in consistency, the restaurant balances that scenery with a dining experience that feels both refined and comfortable. Whether it’s the extravagant Sunday brunch or a relaxed evening on the patio, the hospitality remains attentive and effortless, making guests feel genuinely taken care of. The menu leans into impeccably fresh seafood, with classics executed at a high level, from delicate fish preparations and freshly shucked oysters with a mango-cucumber mignonette to a lightly creamy lobster bisque that has become a signature. It’s the kind of place you go for the seafood, but stay for the view, the atmosphere and a sense of timeless elegance. Try This: Georges Bank Diver Scallops ($49), plancha-seared and served over butternut squash farrotto with aromatic broth, grape chutney, toasted hazelnuts and a crisp kale chip. 12700 Lake Ave., Lakewood, 216-228-2250, pierw.com

The Pompadour

It’s not an oceanfront spot, but it might as well be. Located steps from the shore of Lake Erie, the small neighborhood eatery leans into its coastal environment with a laid-back setting that encourages diners to come as they are, dressed to the nines or straight from the beach. Vibrant, ingredient-forward shareable plates are brightened by add-ins like fresh avocado and peaches, which add a surprising balance to heartier counterparts like short rib ravioli ($20) and shrimp pozole ($19). Getting a piece of everything in each bite is encouraged. It’s intuitive, collaborative dining that pays attention to craft and lets each flavor show its true colors as a distinct part of a whole. Try This: The Punk Rock Chicken ($18) makes the flavors of a backyard cookout look elegant, plating spiced chicken atop barbecue baked beans, bacon and fingerling potatoes. 320 High St., Fairport Harbor, 440-639-0263, thepompadourbar.com

Pho Lee's Vietnamese Restaurant

Some restaurants strive for variety. Son Tran Duy, aka Chef Sonny, meanwhile, has a one-track mind. For him, it’s all about pho, a meal he swears he eats 365 days a year. Breakfast, lunch or dinner, doesn’t matter. For him, the restaurant in Asian Town Center is a vehicle for creating the perfect bowl of soup. He simmers beef or chicken bones with spices, star anise and not too much cinnamon, for at least 24 hours. He offers other great stuff, too, including Bun Cha Gio ($12.99) with finger-food pieces of bone-in pork and vermicelli noodles and Goi Cuon ($8), spring rolls. The French-style iced coffee with condensed milk, Cafe Sura Da ($5), is a nice surprise. But don’t ignore the master’s craft. Try This: Beyond pho, bun bo hue ($16.99) brings lemongrass and chili oil into the equation. 1541 E. 38th St., Cleveland,  347-941-1175, orderpholeeviet.com

Further Reading: Can You Conquer Pho Lee's Pho Challenge — We Could Not

Poppy

Enter this colorful craftsman house through a covered patio with wicker tables and rattan porch swings. You’ll find a cozy, two-story dining room with all the trappings of home. No wonder, the space is an homage to restaurateur Jessica Parkison’s grandmother, the restaurant’s namesake. The classic American menu is modern but doesn’t go too far into hip, small plates territory, for which Parkison’s Salt was known. The dining room keeps you warm through the winter, but the restaurant truly comes alive in the summer, when it doubles its capacity by opening an outdoor garden patio and shed bar under twinkling string lights. Try This: The bone-in pork schnitzel ($42) is as big as it is Cleveland with buttery spatzle haluski cabbage and noodles and a sweet, apple chutney mustard. 12502 Larchmere Blvd., Cleveland, 216-415-5069, poppycleveland.com

Further Reading: Poppy Pays Homage to Owner Jessica Parkison's Grandmother

Rood

Through changes, the kitschy Lakewood restaurant remained centered around its pastry program. Those pies are now in the capable hands of Annabella Andricks, known for Dramatic Snax. Before you get to dessert (and you better get there), chef Josh Erickson’s penchant for global flavors, especially Asian and Middle Eastern, takes you on a far-flung journey around the world but lands you back in Cleveland. The walleye wings ($17) are one of Lake Erie’s finest catches. Supplied by Kate’s Fish at the West Side Market, the shareable, made from the collars of walleye, is a tender star with a tangy pink beet ponzu aioli and a mild buffalo powder that leaves you licking your fingers to take another picture. Try This: The not-too-sweet carrot cake ($12) is made to be eaten like a burger. 17001 Madison Ave., Lakewood, 216-712-4506, eatatrood.com

Q&A: Chef Josh Erickson Talks Influences, Ideas and Inspirations

Sapphire Creek Winery & Gardens

On the edge of Chagrin Falls, Sapphire Creek Winery & Gardens delivers the kind of polished escape that feels equal parts special occasion and easy night out. The timbered, softly lit dining room with large windows hugging the edge of the woods feels comfortable. The patio and gardens become the main attraction when the weather turns. The menu leans upscale American, with well-executed steaks, seafood with a salmon dish highlighting the choices and small plates that are tempting to keep to yourself. A crafted wine list featuring a proprietary blend from Napa Valley. Regulars enjoy the house red ($4-$17), an approachable blend of Paso Robles-grown varietals with tobacco and pepper notes. Service is smooth and intuitive, elevating the experience without overplaying it. Once the woods go dark outside those windows, you realize you’ve escaped, if only for a moment. Try This: In a rich, balanced sauce, cabernet-braised short ribs ($39) sit on a feathery bed of mashed potatoes, surrounded by grilled veggies with the kind of slow-cooked gravity that suggests time has been doing most of the work. 16965 Park Circle Drive, Chagrin Falls, 440-543-7777, sapphire-creek.com

Slyman’s Restaurant & Deli

Enter a lunch rush at Slyman’s: One worker cuts up corned beef at an industrial meat slicer, while another reaches around you — “’scuse me” — to grab a fresh tray loaded with rye bread loaves, while a couple of servers dart in and out of the kitchen. Blue-collar guys and tourists line up side-by-side, while the cashier, from a booth at the front, manages that long line in one chaotic operation, raising the same question with every customer: “What can I get ya?” Corned beef or pastrami are the name of the game here, and they have been for more than 60 years. Those sandwiches, piled so high that many order extra bread to make a second sandwich, are eaten in the small side dining room alongside a crunchy pickle or taken to-go. This is peak Cleveland. Always will be. Try This: The large corned beef melt ($23) comes toasted with double cheese and too much meat for one meal. (Pro tip: Ask for Thousand Island dressing on the side.) 3106 St. Clair Ave. NE, Cleveland, 216-621-3760, slymans.com

Further Reading: Slyman's Restaurant & Deli Has Been Stacking Sandwiches for More Than 60 Years

STEAK

With trendy design and a unique menu, STEAK is far from a traditional steakhouse. The vibrant spot blends a laid-back dining vibe with fine-dining flavors. The menu mixes American classics — burgers, salads and crispy waffle fries — with premium cuts of steak finished with the restaurant’s secret tallow butter. Guests are greeted with a bucket of STEAK’s signature seasoned popcorn, and the menu guides diners through each course of the experience. You can “add some bling” to your steak by gold-wrapping your cut (prices vary) or by adding a lump of the aptly named Crabbiest of Crab Cakes ($15). The fun continues when the cocktails arrive in fun glasses. Standouts include The Robin ($14) and the playful Bath Bomb ($15), making the beverage menu just as memorable as the steaks. Try This: The Everyday Filet with peppercorn sauce and bottomless waffle fries ($48-65). 2179 W. 11th St., Cleveland, 216-331-2724, steakcle.com

Further Reading: STEAK Is Opening a Second Location in Chagrin Falls This Year

Strip Steakhouse

Chef Ron Larson’s love of history brings his massive, two-story steakhouse to life. Inside a Civil War-era, Dutch-style former horse barn, which was disassembled and moved to Olde Avon Village in 2003, antique local art and artifacts hang on exposed, locally harvested wood walls. The pieces and the building itself highlight Larson’s preservation efforts. The menu, however, isn’t stuck in the past, even if it does nod to culinary classics in dishes like its take on pigs in a blanket ($15) with sausage and dates. Big steaks, aged over 21 days as part of the Gold Certified Black Angus meat program, served with flavored compound butter, such as truffle and apple honey, have made it a go-to for professional athletes. Try This: The Big Daddy ($61), a 24-ounce porterhouse with hits of salt, citrus and garlic, has long been a fan favorite at this West Side suburban spot. 36840 Detroit Road, Avon, stripsteakhouse.com

Thyme Table

Chef-owner Mike Smith’s Bay Village hot spot turns American fare on its head, treating classic dishes with care while taking creative liberties that embrace the season. The grilled bone-in pork chop ($32), served with cranberry-apple fried brussel sprouts and potato-and-cheese pierogies, sweetens the plate and the pot. The restaurant’s refined but fun dining philosophy is synonymous with the loaded lobster tots ($15), as is the restaurant itself. The 32-seat dining room, which more than doubles during patio season, is made to linger, fueled by bartender Eric Scott’s world-class wine and cocktail program. Don't miss the customer-favorite Butterscotch Pudding Cake ($14) was recently resurrected after a long hiatus — and for good reason. The smooth, nutty delicacy marries spongy sweet cake and salty butterscotch sauce with bruleed banana and a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. Try This: The short rib grilled cheese ($16) turns one of life’s simplest pleasures gourmet, sandwiching short rib, Gruyere cheese, pink peppercorn pickled onions and whole grain mustard between two buttery slices of Texas toast. 583 Dover Center Road, Bay Village, 440-617-6964, thymextable.com

Tita Flora’s

This authentic suburban Filipino restaurant is an exercise in all five senses. The head-turning pork sisig ($18) arrives noisily sizzling on a skillet, with egg and pork fat popping against super-hot cast-iron platter. Each spoonful of the homey adobo ($15-$16) is fragrant and cooked in soy, vinegar and garlic sauce. The halo halo dessert ($10) delivers a cold burst with a variety of textures (coconut, sweet bean, yam and more) into one not-too-sweet dessert treat. All of it captures the eye, with large servings and gorgeous colors. Chef Flora Grk’s family recipes stem from her upbringing in the Philippines, and in a way, Tita Flora’s feels a little like a family affair. During a busy dinner rush, hungry customers fill the tables with shared plates and laughter, conversing through big sips and bites in this beloved Filipino hot spot. Try This: The meal isn’t complete without ordering a few crunchy lumpia ($8), best enjoyed with a dip into sweet chili sauce. 6531 Brecksville Road, Independence, 216-232-4303, titafloras.com

Tripi Italian Specialties

Don’t let the modern gold sign (or its placement in Ohio City) fool you. Inside is your classic, old-school Italian deli experience, perhaps the only such place in the hip Cleveland neighborhood. Enjoy the smell of fresh ingredients as you browse grandma slices, meatballs and deli sandwiches. The Tuscan Turkey ($14), with smoked mozzarella, pesto mayo, arugula on focaccia, and the Papa Tony ($14), Chef Anthony Zappola’s take on the Italian sub, both offer tradition between the bread. Try This: The chicken parm sandwich ($12) is a two-handed essential with melted provolone and rich classic tomato sauce. 3928 Lorain Ave., Cleveland, 216-417-5511, tripicleveland.com

Further Reading: Tripi Italian Specialties Is the Restaurant of Chef Anthony Zappola's Dreams

Tutto Carne

A chalkboard near the entrance lists prized cuts, ranging, on one evening, from an 18-ounce Chateaubriand ($108) to a 64-ounce bistecca ($320). Once they’re gone, they’re gone. And they go — with customers sawing into top selections from chef Zachary Ladner’s Village Butcher Shop in Mayfield. The Little Italy steakhouse, which is perfect for date night with its haute decor and polished service, follows the meat market’s philosophy of using every bit of the animal. Nuggets of thick-cut bacon pair with crunchy fried capers on the wedge salad ($17), and shredded wisps of beef short rib lend umami flavor to each forkful of the rigatoni ($35). Medium-rare sirloin cap ($45) are best-enjoyed dunked into cups of house-made steak sauce and green chimichurri. Try This: Bones, sliced lengthwise, reveal buttery marrow ($24), scooped with sides of sauces, jammy onions and tangy giardiniera. 2181 Murray Hill Road, Cleveland, 216-471-8386, tuttocarnecleveland.com

Further Reading: Zachary Ladner's Smokehouse 91 and Village Butcher Display the Chef's Passion for Meat

Vero

Ever watch an artist at work? Their assured motions, evidence of years of practice, create a dance so beautiful it rivals the canvas. No? Then head to Vero, where Marc-Aurele Buholzer confidently dances with a 900-degree brick oven pizza like an Italian Renaissance master. His recently expanded Cleveland Heights shop is bright and airy with subway tiles and marble bar tops. So too is his approach to salads, snacks and pizzas, which strictly follows Italian standards and offers a slightly sweet crust with bubbles of charred crisp. Paired with imported wine and finished with a gelato, it’s perfecto. Try This: The Milk & Honey ($26) highlights Akron Honey with savory, soupy farm egg, garlic, basil and Buffalo mozzarella on a white pizza. 12421 Cedar Road, Cleveland Heights, 216-229-8383, verocleveland.com

Further Reading: Vero Does Traditional Neapolitan Pizza the Proper Way

Zhug

If you want to snag a table at this no-reservations spot, your best bet is to arrive early (like, right when they open) or on the later side, when you can tuck into the wrap-around banquette seats for a feast without the pressure of a waiting crowd. The room is energetic, constantly in motion with small plates that land on your table as soon as they’re ready so everyone can dig in and share. Chef Douglas Katz’s Middle Eastern-inspired menu pulls from across the region, with mix-and-match mezze the ranges from silky-smooth harissa peanut hummus ($14) to hearty beef kofte with smoked feta and radishes ($18). The namesake zhug, a green, herby sauce, punches up the flavor (and the heat) on just about anything. Try This: Saffron- and date-braised lamb with crispy sweet potatoes ($23). 12413 Cedar Road, Cleveland Heights, 216-862-2508, zhugcle.com

Zoma Ethiopian Restaurant

Zoma isn’t a place to get precious about mine versus yours: Everything is everyone’s. Tear apart the spongy injera and use it to scoop up rich, peppery beef stew ($20.99), spicy collard greens ($14.99) and piles of colorful lentils ($14.99) that are as fragrant as they are filling. It’s served on one gigantic platter for you and your fellow diners to dig into all at once. No utensils, no problem. Not sure where to start? Just ask. Owner Zeleke Belete, who emigrated from Addis Ababa, prides himself on introducing Clevelanders to the cuisine he grew up with. But whatever you order, wash it all down with a glass of sweet Ethiopian honey wine ($9), which is a dessert unto itself. Try This: Meat and veggie combo with spicy beef stew ($22.99). 2240 Lee Road, Cleveland Heights, 216-465-3239, zomacleveland.com