Cleveland Heights’ Best Restaurants

 Abundance Culinary

Why we love it: Rising chef Liu Fang transformed her bun-based pop-up into a full-scale modern Chinese restaurant set inside a historic diner car. Fang delivers bold, thoughtful dishes that go well beyond the familiar, pairing tradition with creativity across buns, noodles, dumplings and small plates. Try this: The Wagyu Beef Bun ($7-$16) is filled with wagyu beef, sweet potato, roasted sticky rice, ginger, fennel and broad bean sauce, showcasing the handcrafted technique and deeply flavored fillings that put Abundance on the map. 1975 Lee Road, Cleveland Heights, 216-785-9959, a-bun.com

Aladdin’s Eatery

Why we love it: Attentive staff, a warm atmosphere and decades of consistency have made Aladdin’s a neighborhood staple, anchoring the community with approachable Lebanese-American fare for every occasion. Try this: The hummus tabouli garden rolled pita ($8.75) is a vegan delight stuffed with house-made hummus, tangy tabouli, greens and tomatoes. 12447 Cedar Road, Cleveland Heights, 216-932-4333, aladdins.com

Anatolia Cafe

Why we love it: For more than 20 years, this expansive Turkish restaurant has been a local mainstay, serving richly spiced, traditional dishes in a warm, welcoming space. The sizable dining room and bar area make it just as suited for large celebrations as it is for relaxed family dinners. Try this: The Iskender ($24) is the house favorite, but the lamb adana ($24) is a standout with skewered, chargrilled ground lamb seasoned with fresh bell peppers and spices. Save room for homemade baklava to end on a sweet note. 2270 Lee Road, Cleveland Heights, 216-321-4400, anatoliacafe.com

Boss Dog Brewing Co.   

Why we love it: This spacious brewpub pairs house-made beer with a comfort-driven menu in a laid-back, industrial setting. Exposed brick walls, garage-style windows and warm overhead lighting elevate the dining room, while the patio and open layout make it ideal for game days, group dinners and packed weekly trivia nights. Try this: The Korean fried chicken sandwich ($16) comes stacked with buttermilk fried chicken, Korean gochujang sauce, pickle chips and house-made kimchi slaw. 2179 Lee Road, Cleveland Heights, 216-321-2337, bossdogbrewing.com

Cilantro Taqueria   

Why we love it: A go-to for bold, craveable Mexican street food, this bright, quick-service spot delivers all the favorites, from burritos and tortas to birria tacos and build-your-own bowls. Simple seating and colorful celebratory garlands overhead create a lively atmosphere. With six locations across Northeast Ohio, it has steadily earned its following and most recently reappeared on Cleveland Magazine’s Best Restaurants list in 2025. Try this: Start with the elote ($4.75), charred corn coated in a creamy, savory sauce, then follow it with the burrito tinga ($11.50) filled with chipotle-braised shredded chicken. 2783 Euclid Heights Blvd., Cleveland Heights, 216-331-3069, cilantrotaqueria.com

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Cozumel Mexican Restaurant

Why we love it: This neighborhood favorite has it all: generous portions, colorful plates and a lively, welcoming atmosphere. With multiple Northeast Ohio locations and a newer Cleveland Heights outpost, it remains a dependable crowd-pleaser and a frequent Silver Spoon Award winner for Best Mexican. Try this: The Enchiladas Super Rancheras ($16.75), a house favorite and guaranteed hit, brings five different enchiladas to one plate, all topped with melted cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, sour cream and ranchero sauce. 2196 Lee Road, Cleveland Heights, 216-331-6592, cozumel.us

Edwins Leadership & Restaurant Institute

Why we love it: Edwins’ new space brings classic French technique and thoughtful hospitality to the former Nighttown. Brasserie-style banquettes, art-glass windows and an elegant dining room create a welcoming setting that reflects the restaurant’s second-chance mission while preserving its signature warmth and character. Try this: The bouillabaisse ($48) is a must-try, featuring fish, mussels and lobster in a fragrant saffron broth, a beautifully presented seafood stew rooted in French culinary tradition. 12383 Cedar Road, Cleveland Heights, 216-921-3333, edwinsrestaurant.org 

The Fairmount Cocktail Bar

Why we love it: This neighborhood favorite blends the ease of a local hangout with the polish of a modern cocktail lounge. Inside, ambient lighting and comfortable seating set a relaxed, intimate tone. Outside, an ivy-lined patio is quietly tucked away with umbrella-covered tables. The versatile menu is perfect for first dates or group dinners. Try this: Go for the short rib and caramelized onion flatbread ($17), topped with white sauce, mozzarella, braised short rib, goat cheese, caramelized onions and a drizzle of balsamic. 2448 Fairmount Blvd., Cleveland Heights, 216-229-9463, thefairmount.net

Gigi’s on Fairmount     

Why we love it: Open since 2013, this Cedar-Fairmount favorite has grown from a single storefront into a full-building destination, all while keeping its intimate, eclectic charm. Velvet seating, rich jewel tones, fresh flowers and candlelit tables create a lush, inviting atmosphere that feels distinctly personal to the owners. The menu balances cafe staples with a daily lineup of ever-changing entrees. Try this: On Saturdays, the slow-roasted prime rib ($58) is a must and longtime favorite. 3477 Fairmount Blvd., ​Cleveland Heights, 216-291-7237, gigisonfairmount.com 

Foodhisattva

Why we love it: This inventive vegan kitchen turns out thoughtful plant-based cuisine. Scratch-made, vegan meats, cheeses, sauces and desserts result in a flavor-packed lineup of Asian-fusion dishes that blend familiar comfort food with globally inspired flavors. “One of the things that makes us special is that we’re really community oriented, and we’re an authentically small business,” says co-owner Josh Sias. Try this: The daikon cake ($13) is a traditional dim sum dish with shiitake mushrooms, kabocha puree, Taiwanese sweet chili sauce and garlic sauteed watercress. 2158 S. Taylor Road, Cleveland Heights, 216-938-5675, foodhisattva.com

Haunted House Restaurant     

Why we love it: This horror-themed restaurant leans fully into the spectacle. Red velvet curtains, glowing marquee movie posters and creepy character murals set against exposed brick craft a moody, theatrical backdrop that feels straight out of a cult classic. Try this: The Pennywise ($18.99) is a blood-red waffle sandwich stacked scarily with a fried chicken breast tossed in Haunted Maple Heat sauce, two over-medium eggs, pepper jack cheese and candied bacon, finished with powdered sugar and a drizzle of honey. 13463 Cedar Road, Cleveland Heights, 216-862-5584, thehauntedhouserestaurant.com

The Inn on Coventry

Why we love it: A Coventry Village favorite for more than four decades, this cozy, family-run breakfast joint dishes out homestyle staples like corned beef hash, eggs Benedict and omelettes, plus bloody marys and weekend specials. Try this: As big as your plate and available in stacks of one, two or three, the Lemon ricotta pancakes ($10.99 for three) pack a ton of flavor. 2785 Euclid Heights Blvd., Cleveland Heights, 216-371-1811, theinnoncoventry.com

The Kensington Pub

Why we love it: With dart boards, vintage pub signs and cozy wood tables, this British-style spot nails the neighborhood pub vibe. The kitchen takes things up a notch, delivering a polished entree menu that turns a casual pint into a proper dinner. Try this: The corned beef Reuben ($15.75), layered with Swiss cheese, sauerkraut and Thousand Island dressing on grilled rye, delivers classic comfort, salty, tangy and satisfying with every bite. 2260 Lee Road, Cleveland Heights, 216-331-1003, kensington-pub.com

READ MORE: 50 Best Restaurants in Cleveland and Northeast Ohio

Koko Bakery

Why we love it: A tried-and-true stop on Coventry Road, this bakery offers an incredible selection of desserts. The famous Asian buns — stuffed with fillings like pork, egg and red bean — are a must-try for those seeking either a sweet or a savory twist. But no visit is complete without an iconic bubble tea, with more than 40 flavor options ranging from fruity classics to indulgent blends. Try this: Grab a classic red bean bun ($2.25) for a taste of tradition, then pair it with a sweet black rice milk tea ($6.95) for a rich blend of earthy, nutty flavors and a hint of sweetness. 1767 Coventry Road, Cleveland Heights, 216-465-1022, facebook.com/kokobakery

Luna Bakery & Cafe

Why we love it: This comforting neighborhood cafe invites guests to slow down and stay awhile. A scratch-made dessert case filled with classic pastries anchors the space, while a thoughtfully designed menu of crepes, fresh salads and espresso drinks makes it an easy go-to for quiet afternoons and casual lunches. Try this: The roasted veggie crepe ($15) is a comforting, savory choice, filled with roasted portobello mushrooms, summer squash, red peppers, artichoke pesto and goat cheese. 2482 Fairmount Blvd., Cleveland Heights, 216-231-8585, lunabakerycafe.com

Marotta’s 

Why we love it: This dark, rustic Italian restaurant offers five specialty New York-style pies and a build-your-own option in an intimate atmosphere. Deep red walls and black-and-white tile floors create an old-school trattoria feel, warmed by candle-style chandeliers overhead. “You feel like you’re family here,” says general manager Alexandrea Quinn. Try this: The Molta Marotta ($24-$28) pairs pesto with artichoke hearts, peppers, spinach and mozzarella. 2289 Lee Road, Cleveland Heights, 216-932-9264, marottas.com

Mama Joyce’s Soul Food

Why we love it: Ayesha and Rick Wilcox reopened the restaurant in June 2024, reviving fan favorites while refining the menu. The quaint space, with a few high-top tables and a portrait of Mama Joyce, underscores its family roots. Though primarily carryout, guests often linger, turning it into a neighborhood gathering place. “We’re really immersed in being part of the community and providing homestyle food that is good for the soul,” says Ayesha. Try this: The Soul Bowl ($16) is a standout: a buttery cornbread base topped with your choice of three sides, finished with catfish or chicken bites drizzled with sweet yam sauce. 2238 Lee Road, Cleveland Heights, instagram.com/mamajoyces_soulfood

New Heights Grill 

Why we love it: Right on Lee Road, this old-school, bar-forward spot delivers classic comfort with an easygoing, family-friendly vibe. With 65-inch TVs, 20 bar seats and 14 taps, it strikes a familiar neighborhood balance between sports bar and casual dinner hangout. Try this: The fish and chips ($17) is a favorite, featuring crispy haddock served with seasoned waffle fries, coleslaw and tartar sauce. 2206 Lee Road, Cleveland Heights, 216-371-3138 , heightsgrill.com

One Pot

Why we love it: This sleek Coventry spot turns dinner into an experience, pairing all-you-can-eat Korean barbecue and hot pot with built-in, smoke-free grills and bubbling broth stations at every table. Playful oversized bear sculptures and neon accents keep the vibe lively, while the expansive selection of meats, seafood, broths and sauces makes each visit feel interactive, indulgent and endlessly customizable. Try this: Go all in with the all-you-can-eat dinner option ($29.99+ per adult) and choose barbecue, hot pot or both. 1825 Coventry Road, Cleveland Heights, 216-673-3888, onepotusa.com 

Pacific East

Why we love it: For more than two decades, this East Side staple has blended sushi classics with Malaysian-inspired dishes. The bright interior creates an energetic yet
approachable setting for both casual lunches and lively dinners. A sprawling menu balances crowd-pleasing rolls with ramen and udon, making it easy to mix and match flavors at the table. Try this: The lso Maki roll ($16.95) is satisfyingly served with tuna, salmon, yellowtail, avocado, cucumbers, mayonnaise and fish roe. 1763 Coventry Road, Cleveland Heights, 216-320-2302, pacificeastcoventry88.com

Taste

Why we love it: This elegant Lee Road restaurant has paired polished, modern American fare with a refined yet welcoming atmosphere for nearly 20 years. With seating for 140, a private party room and a full-service bar anchored by an extensive wine list, it’s a go-to for date nights and special occasions. Try this: The veal Francaise ($36) is a longtime favorite, topped with Chardonnay-lemon butter sauce, capers and grilled asparagus. Co-owner Raj Singh swears by the grilled lamb rib chops ($48)but encourages guests to try something new with each visit. 2317 Lee Road, Cleveland Heights, 216-932-9100, tastefoodwine.com

READ MORE: 10 Best New Restaurants to Try in Cleveland and Northeast Ohio

Tommy’s Restaurant

Why we love it: Recognizing that Clevelanders’ appetites and food preferences are as diverse as the community itself, owner Tommy Fello has intentionally worked popular substitutions into the restaurant’s offerings, including milkshakes, brunch fare and some of the area’s earliest Middle Eastern-inspired dishes. “We try to offer something for everybody,” he says. Try this: Tommy’s is probably most famous for its milkshakes and malts ($6.85+). Looking for something savory? Choose one of the 11 toasted cheeses, like the Quigley or Zippy. 1824 Coventry Road, Cleveland Heights, 216-321-7757, tommyscoventry.com

Vero Pizza Napoletana 

Why we love it: This modern pizza parlor prides itself on one-of-a-kind Neapolitan pizzas. Each ball of dough is handmade daily by owner Marc-Aurele Buholzer and then sent into a 900-degree wood-fired pizza oven imported from Naples, Italy. “We produce a pretty unique vibe and culture within our pizzeria itself,” says Buholzer. “It’s something that sits in between a casual and fine dining experience.” Try this: The Margherita pizza ($26) keeps it simple with tomatoes, fresh basil and Buffalo mozzarella to let the dough shine. 12421 Cedar Road, Cleveland Heights, 216-229-8383, verocleveland.com

Zhug    

Why we love it: A lively mix of Middle Eastern flavors and modern energy, this Cedar-Fairmount favorite turns dining into a true communal experience. The airy, minimalist space buzzes with warmth as guests gather around shareable plates of vibrant meze, settling into cozy banquette seating, strewn with plush pillows. Try this: The curried lamb and apricot hummus ($16) is a fresh, unexpected staple that keeps regulars coming back. 12413 Cedar Road, Cleveland Heights, 216-862-2508, zhugcle.com

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