The 12 Places You Should Eat In Cleveland In 2020

The incredible thing about the Cleveland foodie scene is that it’s ever-evolving. Timeless restaurants like Guarino’s and Sokolowski’s continue to entertain, but a number of newcomers to the scene continue to intrigue the palate and introduce a new vibe to hungry diners. The best new restaurants in Cleveland are too numerous to count, but these delectable destinations offer the perfect opportunity to begin exploring up-and-comers in the local foodie scene.

ROOD Food & Pie/Facebook

ROOD Food & Pie is a newbie on the scene, having opened in late 2018, but it has already amassed a following thanks to its deliciously colorful menu. Their sliders and pie delight diners, and their eccentric atmosphere offers a funky twist to traditional dining.

ic Dave's ROCK CLUB/Facebook

When it comes to rock and roll, Cleveland is the place to be. And, of course, the same is true with awesome eats. At Cosmic Dave’s Rock Club, the classic subs we know and love are combined with a killer atmosphere and live music for an incredible dining experience.

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The Dinerbar On Clifton/Facebook

Remember The Diner on Clifton? Fans were disheartened when it closed back in 2016. Fortunately, it reopened about two years later as The Dinerbar On Clifton! Their new menu features old favorites and reinvented classics, a selection that pairs perfectly with their shiny new space.

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IL RIONE Pizzeria/Facebook

Il Rione opened at the end of 2017, but it's still an up-and-comer in the local foodie scene. Those that have tried this pizzeria's offerings have fallen in love in just one bite. The old school structure in which this quaint pizza joint is housed is chic and warm, a cozy destination that's reminiscent of a local eatery in a much bigger city.

The Palazzo Ristorante/Facebook

If you're a longtime Clevelander, you surely remember The Palazzo. It has enjoyed a number of names over the years - you may remember it as Palmina's back in the day - though it ultimately closed in the early 2000s. 2019 has proven that tasteful reboots can be hugely successful, and the same is true with food. Since The Palazzo was purchased by a new owner and reopened, this old structure has come to house a gorgeous upscale Italian eatery.

Slyman's Tavern Mentor/Facebook

This chic and shiny new destination is sure to be a fan favorite. Clevelanders know and love Slyman's, with some praising the retro deli for its "bigger is better" approach to corned beef. This old-school favorite that's been cherished for over half a century has now expanded into Mentor, and you'll definitely want to check out the new digs.

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Cilantro Taqueria/Facebook

It may be housed in a former Chipotle, but looks can be deceiving; Cilantro Taqueria is so much more authentic. Located in the cozy Coventry neighborhood and featuring a menu dreamed up by a Mexican-born chef, this colorful eatery is a vibrant addition to the area. After a long day, there's nothing like a good margarita and a soy sofritos taco.

The Kensington Pub/Facebook

Dim, cozy gastropubs are growing in popularity, and it's no secret why. These awesome hangouts present an awesome place to grab a beer and burger with a few friends without feeling too formal. The Kensington Pub, so named for its location on the corner of Lee and Kensington, is casual in the best sort of way... but their menu features a few classy surprises, including fine wines straight from Napa Valley.

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Ohio City Galley/Facebook

Editor's Note: Unfortunately, Ohio City Galley has closed its doors. Looking for an alternative dining destination to replace this spot on our list? Try Sichuan Hot Pot!

You want a nice, juicy steak, but your significant other wants a burger and mac and cheese. It's a constant struggle trying to decide where to go to eat... unless you live in Ohio City, that is. This food-friendly neighborhood now houses Ohio City Galley, a quirky food hall and restaurant accelerator, featuring several restaurants in one space. Forest City Steaks, Tinman, and Sauce the City offer a diverse selection of snacks that even the most diverse palates can agree on.

Shawn B/TripAdvisor

If you're not a regular in Cleveland's AsiaTown, then you might not have noticed when LJ Shanghai quietly opened its doors in 2017. The truth is, fans of this delightful noodle house love keeping it as their little secret. However, the delicious xiao long bao, or dumplings, served up at LJ Shanghai has made it one of the best restaurants in The Land. Their menu offers ample opportunity to try something new, so be sure to add this yummy destination to your local to-do list.

Lox, Stock, and Brisket/Facebook

If you're not a fan of over-the-top sandwiches, then you probably don't belong in a place like Cleveland. Lox, Stock, and Brisket, on the other hand, fits right in. This delightful delicatessen quietly opened its doors in 2018, and it has since become a hit with East Siders. Many have yet to experience the wonder of their locally-inspired dishes, but you'll soon discover that the menu at Lox, Stock, and Brisket is perfect for dine in or carry out.

Foodhisattva/Facebook

When you are vegetarian or vegan, you know how delightful dining out can be. ("Oh, yes, ma'am! We do have vegan options. Here's our salad menu.") There's nothing more boring than a salad when that's your primary option at most restaurants. Fortunately, Foodhisattva appeared as a series of pop-up stands in Cleveland circa 2014. It since set out in search of a brick and mortar, which it found in Cleveland Heights. Since opening in 2019, vegans and carnivores alike have been wowed by their flavorful dishes, all of which are cruelty-free without a trace of boring.

The last few years have introduced some delicious dining to the local foodie scene. Which of these new additions to Cleveland’s collection of restaurants are you most looking forward to trying?

2020 is sure to be a jazzy era. Have you ever longed to visit the Jazz Age? These photos of Cleveland during the 1920s will surely take you back in time.