10 Restaurants On Cleveland's East Side You Absolutely Must Try
By Nikki Rhoades|Published February 22, 2019
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Nikki Rhoades
Author
Nikki is a lifelong Ohioan with a love for literature. She holds a Bachelor's Degree from the University of Akron and has enjoyed publishing her written work since 2007. She has a love of travel and does so frequently, though she believes that home is where the heart is — she continues to work in and around Cleveland as a digital content specialist to this day, working on everything from commercial scripts and social media posts to grassroots marketing initiatives.
One of the greatest attributes of food is its ability to bring people together. Families covet meals above other forms of bonding, and first dates are often spent over a great meal. Cleveland, as locals know, is home to a food scene that’s truly world-class. While amazing dishes can be found all over the city and its greater metropolitan area, some of the best restaurants are hidden on the east side. Prepare your taste buds for a road trip, as these mouth-watering destinations will keep you coming back for more.
1. Anatolia Cafe (2270 Lee Rd., Cleveland Heights)
Since 2007, this super cozy cafe has been delighting visitors with a long menu of Turkish treats. People come from all over for a taste of Mediterranean dining at Anatolia Cafe. Complete with comfortable seating and soaring ceilings, this diverse kitchen is able to delight picky and adventurous eaters alike. For more info on this lovely cafe, click here.
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2. Zoma Ethiopian Restaurant (2240 Lee Rd., Cleveland Heights)
If you think these dishes are colorful, just wait until you take in the ambiance this incredible restaurant. Vegans and meat-eaters alike enjoy the menu at this eclectic restaurant, and the Ethiopian tradition of sharing friendship over food is continued on in its pleasant dining space.
3. Jack's Deli & Restaurant (14490 Cedar Rd., Cleveland Heights)
Dining doesn't have to be fancy to be great. If anyone understands that, it's the staff at this local landmark. Jack's Deli has operated since 1980, serving up old-school specialties alongside American favorites.
4. The Capital Grille (25389 Cedar Rd., Lyndhurst)
Every so often it's great to visit a chain, as it expands your dining experience with an atmosphere that's not quite exclusive to Cleveland. If you're in the mood for steaks, you can never go wrong with The Capital Grille. Soups, salads, burgers, and steaks offer a playful take on all-American dining.
Tommy's on Coventry has a menu of delicious options, but they're famous for their milkshakes. Tommy's started out as a small soda fountain in 1972, and things certainly picked up when they were recognized by Rolling Stone for serving up the "Best Milkshake East of the Mississippi." Today the menu attracts vegans and lovers of great food to this cozy restaurant, and the familiar atmosphere has changed very little over the years.
Nora Cleveland is located in the heart of Little Italy. This traditional white tablecloth restaurant serves up reinvented Italian cuisine and tops it with local ingredients. Armed with a killer wine list and a comfortable dining experience, it's no wonder this place is adored by locals for family get-togethers and special dates.
7. Fire Food & Drink (13220 Shaker Square, Cleveland)
Prepare for an atmosphere that's almost too hot to handle. Fire is located in the heart historic Shaker Square, but their milieu offers a pleasant contrast to the historic grandeur of yore. Their creative menu and cocktails draw in crowds each and every night, and their attention to detail keeps people coming back for more.
Even if you're a fan of the local foodie scene, you're sure to love this chain restaurant in Lyndhurst. This restaurant is perfect for people that want to break away from the norm. The cheerful ambiance pairs perfectly with their interactive fondue-centric menu.
If there is one thing Clevelanders take seriously, it's corned beef. This Jewish deli is known as one of the best, and it has served the area since the 1950s. Founded by a native Clevelander, this destination values flavor and experience over fancy frills.
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10. Piccolo Italian Restaurant (1261 Som Center Rd., Mayfield Heights)
Nothing quite beats the atmosphere of a traditional bistro. Piccolo Italian Restaurant approaches their menu with a made-from-scratch mentality and many items are imported to maintain a sense of authenticity. Generations of family recipes built up their menu, and a bit of TLC from creative chefs gives you a dining experience like no other.
In Cleveland, food offers a dining experience and a bonding opportunity all in one. Which of these local haunts is your favorite?