9 Neighborhood Bars In Cleveland Where The Beer Is Cold And The Food Is Good
By Nikki Rhoades|Published December 19, 2018
×
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.
There’s nothing like the comfort and familiarity of a neighborhood hang out. Even when it’s not your own neighborhood, the locals are friendly, the food is to die for, and drinks are always ice cold. There’s a certain charm about the well-worn tables and stools, and you can just feel a sense of overwhelming camaraderie. Welcome to Greater Cleveland, let us show you to your seat.
1. Smedley's Bar and Grille (17004 Lorain Ave., Cleveland)
This Kamms Corners bar has been beloved by locals for years, and its old-fashioned character hasn’t faded. It frequently features live music, and its old-school atmosphere continues to draw in new friends.
2. Tavern of Little Italy (12117 Mayfield Rd., Cleveland)
Little Italy is one of Cleveland's most festive neighborhoods, and you're bound to love the architecture, food, and friendliness that abounds in this enchanting neighborhood. You'll also love the familiarity of its neighborhood tavern, which purportedly serves up the best burgers in the world.
Tremont is full of lovely places where you can kick back and relax, and each destination has its own history. The Rowley Inn, made famous for its unique burgers, has been serving Cleveland since 1906. This Tremont bar and restaurant once hosted the film crew of A Christmas Story, and visitors will be delighted to see that the movie's famous house set is located within walking distance from this endearing local hot spot.
Advertisement
4. The Flying Monkey Pub (819 Jefferson Ave., Cleveland)
There's always a particular energy about neighborhood favorites, and The Flying Monkey Pub is overflowing with good vibes. This quirky destination includes an outdoor tiki bar that locals are obsessed with during the warmer months, and happy hour runs on weekdays from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Located right on the corner of Jefferson and Professor, this Oz-inspired destination is easy to spot and the perfect meeting point.
This neighborhood bar is one of locals' favorites in Downtown Cleveland, and it's no secret why. With familiar pub food, all sorts of arcade games, an old-school jukebox, and frequent festivities, this bar is all the rage. Located mere steps from Playhouse Square, Becky’s has been delighting visitors since 1986.
This charming gastropub reflects the thrills of its surrounding community. It's Cleveland's first-ever gastropub, and 48 craft beers from the U.S. and Europe are available on draft at any given time. With more than 100 craft beers to choose from and all sorts of familiar pub food, this friendly bar is bound to be your new favorite haunt.
Since 1936, this charming destination has welcomed visitors in Fairview Park. It’s easy to spot on the corner of Corner of W. 215 and Lorain, and you'll adore the homestyle-inspired comforts of their kitchen and the ice-cold brews from their well-visited 80-year-old bar. You'll even sit on the original bar stools during your visit!
Hot dogs, get your beer and hot dogs! No, you're not in the ballpark - you're in one of Cleveland's quirkiest eateries. Featuring all-beef hot dogs as well as delicious vegan sausages, its menu includes all sorts of unique toppings to pile on your entree, in addition to a selection of more than 75 beers.
Advertisement
9. Clifton Martini & Wine Bar (10427 Clifton Blvd., Cleveland)
You've just uncovered one of the coziest bars in Cleveland, and their libations are sure to quench your thirst. This charming bar features beer, wine, and martinis alongside an impressive happy hour and dinner menu. Comfy and quaint, this local bar has easily become a favorite for many Cleveland natives.
Northeast Ohio features many incredible watering holes, but these are some of Clevelanders’ favorites. What bars and neighborhood hangouts would you add to our list?