Cleveland, Ohio, An Underrated Destination!

I was born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio, and I am proud of the incredible city it has become. While I no longer live there, I only have great things to say about my hometown. Hence, it always baffles me when people still coin the city ‘the mistake on the lake.’ Seriously, the unfortunate industrial incident they refer to happened in 1971. Moving on, Cleveland has many fabulous things to see and do. I encourage you to visit and find out for yourselves.

The Arts

Cleveland Art Museum

Cleveland Museum of Art, ranked 2nd in the nation by Business Insider, is in the University Circle neighborhood on the east side of town. With over 61,000 pieces of art, the museum includes a vast amount of modern and contemporary works. While most known for Asian and African art, there is also a collection of mastery from artists like Picasso and Van Gogh. Furthermore, the Cleveland Apollo, an ancient bronze sculpture by Praxiteles, is one of the museum’s most beloved icons. Without question, it is also gratifying to browse the grounds and atrium, admiring its beauty. And if you are so inclined, you can reserve a gallery for a business or charity luncheon — it is an elegant venue for a meeting of the minds.

Playhouse Square

The famed theater district in downtown Cleveland is known as Playhouse Square. It is the largest performing arts center in the US, outside of New York City. The Ohio and Palace theaters are among the five main theaters and 11 stages. Each site built in the 1920s was restored to replicate the era. Moreover, a 20-foot chandelier now hangs in all its glory, dramatizing the plaza center.

The venues on the square host more than 1,000 events annually, including some of the biggest titles on Broadway. In addition to major productions, the theaters invite comedy, concerts, and dance. 

Undeniably, Playhouse Square set the bar high for me; I feel privileged that my first experience with theater was at one of the most elite districts in the country.

Severance Music Center

The Cleveland Orchestra is known as one of the finest symphony orchestras in the world. The 100-plus members are as committed to excellence in Music as they are to honoring their community. While Severance Music Center has been home to the orchestra since 1931, the group plays at Blossom Music Center during the Summer. Although two very different settings, I encourage you to attend a performance during your visit; you will learn that music is an integral part of Cleveland’s soul.  

Tourist Attractions

Lake Erie

One of the five great lakes, Lake Erie, is cherished by Clevelanders. During the Summer, you’ll see boaters, skiers, fisherpeople, and beachgoers having fun on the water, whose enormous vision almost mirrors an ocean or sea. Lakeside bars, restaurants, offices, and residences offer incredible views year-round.The lake is the number one thing I miss about living in Cleveland. I treasure memories of riding my bike to the shore and boating to Put-in-Bay. A piece of my heart will forever be in those waters. 

USS Cod Submarine Memorial

 

The USS Cod Submarine Memorial is docked on Cleveland’s North Coast Harbor, and tourists are welcome to tour the veteran sub daily from spring to fall and most winter days, weather permitting. Cod is a World War II fleet submarine launched in 1943. The submarine is a National Historical Landmark that received seven battle stars for her service. Appropriately, her home is in Cleveland, where her five diesel engines were built by General Motors.

The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

Spanning seven floors of exhibits, The Rock and Rock Hall of Fame contains items belonging to artists from the past to the present day. Walk, read, and gawk for hours while admiring artists’ clothing, songbooks, and personal property. Be sure to look for the wax head of Steven Tyler; if he’s on display, you won’t be disappointed. Rumor has it that he might open his eyes if you stare long enough. Even more entertaining is seeing Mic Jagger’s tiny jumpsuit, which reveals how small he truly is.

Theater rooms showcase concerts and interviews of legendary musicians. And there are soundproof rooms for rising stars to try their hand at various instruments. However, you are free to sing as you bop around from floor to floor — nobody will blink an eye.

A Christmas Story House

The famous house from the adored film A Christmas Story is open year-round for tours and overnight stays. You can easily purchase tickets to walk through the home and view memorabilia from the movie. The museum across the street also houses items from the film. While at it, you can spend the night at the Bumpus house next door, the fictional home of Ralphie’s hillbilly neighbors.

While in the house, remember, if you bring food, keep your eyes peeled for dogs. However, you have nothing to fear; Cleveland has plenty of good Chinese restaurants!

The Westside Market

Designated as one of the 10 Great Public Places in America by the American Planning Association, The Westside Market is a bustle of fun to explore. Most importantly, it is a culturally diverse place to learn while shopping and a treat to visit each stand.

Shop for seafood, meat, produce, and dairy while the aromas of herbs and spices fill the market. Moreover, embrace the delectable recipes that undoubtedly will dance through your head. And before you leave, remember to fill your basket with fresh flowers and homemade bread!

The Cleveland Metroparks

The American Academy for Parks and Recreation Administration awarded Cleveland Metroparks the 2021 National Gold Medal for the best park in the nation in 2021. The parks continue to receive accolades, including Best Places to Work in Northeast Ohio. The system has 18 reservations, 24,000 acres, 300 miles of trails, eight golf courses, eight lakefront parks, and a nationally acclaimed zoo.

An avid hiker and runner, I contest that the trails are some of the most inviting in the country. From the east to the west, you will find challenging, gorgeous trails for all levels of adventurers. I grew up wandering about Bedford and Garfield Reservations and eventually trekked through Chagrin, Hinckley, Huntington, Rocky River, and more. Trust me when I say an active tourist will always enjoy exploring my old stomping grounds.

My Favorite Restaurants

Downtown

Mallorca

 

One of my all-time favorite restaurants in downtown Cleveland is Mallorca. The Spanish and Portuguese cuisine is always cooked to perfection. And the servers are remarkably efficient. I swear they are magicians, as I never see anyone clear the tables — yet it’s done.

One of their best appetizers is the clams stuffed with sausage and breadcrumbs. And the veal in lemon wine sauce and the paella with saffron rice are insanely delicious dinner choices.

Furthermore, Wine Spectator magazine listed Mallorca as one of the World’s Best Restaurants for Wine in their annual dining guide.

Lindy’s Lakehouse

A casual downtown spot to indulge in great food and drink on the water is Lindy’s Lakehouse. The gorgeous bar has seating inside and out, and the lake views are spectacular. The entire place is open-air in the summer months.I recommend starting with the firecracker shrimp followed by the lobster roll, Lake Erie Walleye, or chicken tinga bowl as an entree. However, if you are a picky eater like my nephew Luke, the crispy chicken strip platter it is!

Eastside

Mamma Santa’s Pizzeria

A family-owned eatery in Little Italy, Mamma Santas is an authentic Italian experience. The food and the neighborhood are everything you think Italy would be.

Some of the best options are the classic pepperoni pizza, spaghetti di casa, and meatball sub. These basic dishes are done right at Mamma Santa’s, and the wines are approachable. My girlfriends and I solved much of the world’s problems over a pie and vino in this adorable establishment.

Giovanni’s

One of my first experiences in fine dining was at Giovanni’s,  and it continues to maintain its brilliant status. Located in the suburb of Beachwood, I will always think of this restaurant as one of the greatest.Your eyes will roll back in your head after tasting the ciabatta-crusted calamari steak and the pappardelle lamb ragout. But any pasta or steak dish will be terrific as well. Moreover, the wine list is divine.

Westside

Pier W

My go-to for seafood is Pier W in Lakewood. I recommend the entire menu but will narrow it down to a few items. I’d go with the clam chowder and Pier W’s famous bouillabaisse. Moreover, the wine list has a beautiful selection of old and new-world options.

Additionally, the restaurant sits at the bottom of one of the high-rise apartment buildings overlooking the water. It offers some of the best lake views from all angles inside and outside the restaurant.

Johnny’s on Fulton

If you want a romantic night out at a regal-style restaurant, go to Johnny’s on Fulton. A mile from Ohio City, it is a Cleveland staple for its excellence in food, service, and ambiance.

Start with the appetizer of peppercorn-crusted duck breast. Then, for your entrée, go for the veal medallions with sun-dried tomatoes in a sherry demi-glaze. Johnny’s serves northern Italian cuisine with an impeccable wine list.

Don’s Lighthouse

The lounge at Don’s Lighthouse in Lakewood has a special place in my heart. More importantly, the food is wonderful, and the restaurant and building have a long, respectable history. But, back to the lounge — it is an excellent hideaway for a liquid lunch. So, if you want to know what I am ordering, it’s the crab cakes and the cowboy steak salad — in the lounge.

Fat Cats in Tremont

In the historic Tremont neighborhood, Fat Cats is a local favorite. It’s a fun stop for dinner and drinks after work or a celebration brunch. The ambiance is exceptional inside and out, and the surroundings are homey yet sassy.I’m privy to the roasted quail when it’s on special. However, I also love the grilled octopus small plate and the crab melt.

Hecks of Ohio City

 

A long-standing gem often chosen for gatherings and special occasions is Hecks of Ohio City. However, it is also where regulars like to hang out and enjoy consistently excellent food. It’s a place I remember fondly as our family meet-up spot for brunch or lunch.

Although they’re known for their delicious burgers, I love their halibut tacos and tuna tataki. And the wild mushroom ravioli is also mouthwatering.

Valley View – Central

Lockkeepers

 

Named for its location on the Ohio-Erie Canal near Lock 39, Lockkeepers, in the central suburb of Valley View, is positively delightful. The historic building is large yet quaint, with windows from ceiling to floor. And the riverside views are mesmerizing.

With Italian and American fare, traditional dishes like old-fashioned lasagna and center-cut filet mignon top the menu. However, the duck bolognese is another marvelous option.

Richfield – Summit County

Olesia’s Summit County, Richfield

 

 

My family now lives in Richfield, a village in Summit County. Therefore, Olesia’s Taverne of Richfield has become a new favorite place to dine when I visit. The restaurant is in a house with the charm of the old south, a grand ole bar, and extraordinary lighting. The vibe is great, and you can chill with the mood while you enjoy your food. I recommend the lobster and crab bisque; there is meat in every bite. Furthermore, the short rib crepes are out of this world.

Michael Angelo’s Winery and Bakery

 

Michael Angelo’s Winery, also in Richfield, is a destination in itself. They make estate wine from grapes grown on their on-site vineyard. A Certified Sommelier, I was admittedly hesitant to taste Ohio wine. However, the Sangiovese is lovely, and I will order it again!

The atmosphere is welcoming and spacious inside and out. Hence, it’s a fun bachelorette or girls get-together. I love their pepperoni pizza and short-rib gnocchi, but their bakery takes the cake!