Cleveland has become an exciting new “foodie” scene. There are new restaurants and cuisines popping up all over the city as well as new hot spots right on campus. Below are a few of the best and most delicious spots close to CWRU:
Breakfast & Brunch
The Inn on Coventry
This is the #1 spot to go to for a home-cooked meal and the best pancakes. Their menu has something for everyone and also includes delicious vegetarian options. Located in Coventry, The Inn is a perfect place to have breakfast and spend the morning exploring little shops down the street.
Big Al’s Diner
Big Al’s Diner is the go to place for corned beef hash and hearty breakfasts. Located about 5-10 minutes from campus, they provide breakfast classics and comfort food.
Lunch & Dinner
The Flying Fig
This restaurant is located in Ohio City which is a GREAT area to check out. It’s known for locally-sourced meals and boasts seasonal meat and plant-based shareables like tempura green beans with pineapple chili sauce. The Flying Fig is a delicious place for any meal but I really like their brunch. If you love this place, go ahead and check out their neighborhood pantry next door called Market at the Fig.
Trattoria on the Hill
You can’t go wrong with a delicious restaurant in Little Italy. Family owned and operated, Trattoria has the BEST gnocchi hands down and amazing cakes for dessert. In addition to its delicious pastas, antipasti, and pizza, Trattoria has an impressive drink menu. It is a must-try!
Mia Bella
Another one of my favorites in Little Italy. The shrimp saganaki is a must have appetizer before digging into traditional Italian entrees.
Momocho
Momocho has fantastic Mexican food (and even better margaritas!). It is located about 15 minutes off campus but in a cool area, so it is worth the travel. Guy Fieri even visited to try the guacamole served six different ways, enjoying unique combinations including goat cheese, crab, and pineapple. If that’s a little too adventurous, sink your teeth into the machaca, which is coffee and chile braised beef brisket.
Barrio
With a new location less than 5 minutes away from campus, Barrio is THE place to go to for guacamole, queso, tacos and margaritas. They have set taco combinations created by the chef or you can create your own! A must-try restaurant when you’re in Cleveland.
Mamma Santas
This Little Italy landmark has the best pizza in town. They have a great variety of pizza as well as classic Italian dishes. In fact, their food is so good, they swept away numerous Cleveland food awards for Best Italian Food and Best Pizza.
Happy Dog
Located right on campus, Happy Dog is a fun and casual spot to create your own hot dog with funky and delicious toppings. They also have outstanding tater tots!
Dessert
Prestis Bakery and Cafe
Opened in 1903 by Rose and Charles Presti Sr, Prestis started out as a bread bakery. With each generation, the business has grown and expanded, finally becoming the place it is today with dine-in availability and carryout. Enjoy breakfast pastries, cookies of all shapes and sizes, seasonal gelato, and specialty cakes. If you’re looking for something more savory, pick up some pizza by the slice, stromboli, or bruschetta.
Mitchell’s Ice Cream
Located right on campus, Mitchell’s is a locally owned ice cream store with delicious seasonal favorites and the best hot fudge. Beloved flavors include banana cream pie, caramel sea salt, key lime pie, rocky road, and, if you happen to be around in the summer, enjoy favorites like campfire s’mores and coconut.
