11 Restaurants In Cleveland To Get Ethnic Food That'll Culture Your Taste Buds
By Nikki Rhoades|Published August 09, 2020
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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.
When it comes to local dining, Cleveland is the place to be. Here in The Land, culinary masterminds have hailed from and traveled all over the world, empowering them with the knowledge to make authentic and culturally diverse dishes here in their hometown. When it comes to the best ethnic food in Cleveland, you’ll find that the local dining scene is diverse and full of surprises. Prepare your taste buds for excellence, because these dining destinations are irresistible.
Do you have a hankering for seafood? Stop by Mallorca for an Iberian-inspired menu full of Spanish and Portuguese favorites like Camarones Enchilados and Langosta Rellena. Don't miss out on the wine list! Visit this spot at 1390 W 9th St, Cleveland, OH 44113.
Jamaican food is something of a fusion genre, and boy is it good. It draws comparison to ethnic eats from Chinese and Spanish cultures, but it's uniquely its own. Irie is a great place to try something totally new, and it's perfect for carryout. Wouldn't you love to try every new food in the comfort of your home?! Visit Irie Jamaican Kitchen at 4162 Pearl Rd, Cleveland, OH 44109.
Everything is colorful at Barroco, from its milieu to its menu. Here, you can dig into Colombian entrees, plus you'll find dishes with Mexican and Cuban flair. This eatery is known for its out of this world arepas, though you can get American classics like burgers and brunch at any of their three locations. Visit its Cleveland location at 12718 Larchmere Blvd, Cleveland, OH 44120.
Cleveland's AsiaTown is full of surprises. Unsurprisingly, however, this is the perfect neighborhood in The Land to swing by if you're in search of authentic Chinese eats. Most Americans are accustomed to U.S.-style Chinese food, but you'll find all sorts of authentic options at LJ Shanghai. Here, xiao long bao (steamed dumplings) are out-of-this-world delicious. Visit this spot at 3142 Superior Ave, Cleveland, OH 44114.
With dishes as highly colorful as they are delicious, Zoma Ethiopian Restaurant is perfect for carnivores and vegans alike. If you've never tried Ethiopian food, you should know before going in that traditional ingredients include spices like chili pepper, garlic, and ginger are commonly used spices... and many dishes, especially meat dishes, are spiced to perfection. You can dig in at 2240 Lee Rd, Cleveland, OH 44118.
Ah mais oui, ça c'est toujours delish! Chic and rustic, L'albatros Brasserie + Bar brings a taste of France to the table. On le menu, you'll find delectable options like soup, escargot, duck confit, and more. There are even vegetarian options! You can find L'Albatros at 11401 Bellflower Rd, Cleveland, OH 44106.
Historically, Hungarians and others from Central European countries have found solace and camaraderie in Cleveland. Clevelanders, as a result, have discovered the wonders of European-style comforts like paprikash and schnitzel. Find indulgent ethnic eats like these at Balaton Restaurant, located at 13133 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120.
Irish-style food is always a treat, especially when paired with a great beer. Located in Ohio City, The Harp boasts iconic Irish eats like boxty and corned beef in addition to imported and local beers and wines. Dine on the patio in the summer months for stellar views of the city skyline! Visit The Harp at 4408 Detroit Ave, Cleveland, OH 44113.
Located in the same plaza as the incredible Park to Shop Supermarket in AsiaTown (which has killer bakery if you're craving dessert!), Li Wah is an incredible place to grab a meal. They specialize in dim sum (small plates perfect for mixing and matching) and other Cantonese-style dishes. Dig in at 2999 Payne Ave #102, Cleveland, OH 44114.
Mexican cuisine is indulgent, and locals adore the diversity that comes with this style of dining. El Jalapeños Authentic Mexican Restaurant is one of Cleveland's favorite taco spots, and its diverse selection of margaritas only makes each visit sweeter. Treat your taste buds at 1313 W 117th St, Cleveland, OH 44107.
Over in Cleveland's Little Italy, you'll find culture, incredible shopping, and the oldest eatery in the city. Guarino's has been around for so long that it served liquor during Prohibition and entertained famous guests from Old Hollywood, including Frank Sinatra himself. You'll find everything from spaghetti to lasagna at this local landmark. Visit it at 12309 Mayfield Rd, Cleveland, OH 44106.
When it comes to searching for the best ethnic food in Cleveland, these restaurants won’t leave you disappointed. There’s much to love about these diverse dining destinations, and each has something special that makes it shine. Which of these ethnic eateries is your favorite? Tell us in the comments!
Love ethnic eats like pierogies? You’ll love the creative pierogi dishes hiding throughout Cleveland.
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