Cleveland’s dining scene is always changing, with new restaurants adding to the mix. You can find everything from Shanghainese comfort food at LJ Shanghai to spicy Indian small plates at Amba. There’s a lunch spot for every taste, whether you want a cozy café or an upscale meal.
Key Takeaways
- Cleveland’s lunch restaurant scene features a wide range of cuisines and dining experiences.
- Explore casual cafes, quick bite lunch spots, and upscale midday dining options.
- Discover new neighborhood eateries with diverse lunchtime menus and appealing café ambiance.
- Find lunch restaurants catering to various dietary preferences and cravings.
- Uncover hidden gems and local favorites for a memorable midday meal.
Cleveland’s Thriving Lunch Restaurant Scene
Cleveland’s dining scene is always changing, with new eateries making lunch special. You can find everything from cozy cafes for quick bites to fancy lunch spots with big menus. Whether you want a casual spot or a fancy meal, Cleveland has lots of choices for lunch.
Local Eateries Redefining Midday Dining
In Cleveland, lunch is more than just a meal. Local spots are bringing new ideas to the table with their lunch menus and atmosphere. For a fast snack, try One Pot USA or Tiger Lily Cafe for tasty sandwiches and salads. If you’re looking for something fancier, Cordelia and Fahrenheit offer seafood towers and top-notch American dishes.
From Casual Cafes to Upscale Lunch Spots
Cleveland’s lunch scene has something for everyone. For a laid-back lunch, check out Jaja or Lil Ronnie’s. They’re both highly rated. If you want something more upscale, Astoria: Taste the Mediterranean and Batuqui: Authentic Brazilian Lunch Restaurant serve delicious small plates in a fancy setting.
| Restaurant | Rating | Cuisine | Pricing |
|---|---|---|---|
| P.F. Chang’s | 4.2 | Asian | $$ |
| Cordelia | 4.4 | American | $$ |
| 1899 Social Club | 3.4 | American | $$$ |
| Heart of Gold | 4.4 | American | $$ |
| Jaja | 4.0 | American | $$ |
| One Pot USA | 4.1 | American | $ |
| Tiger Lily Cafe | 4.6 | Cafe | $ |
| Lil Ronnie’s | 4.4 | American | $ |
Hidden Gem: Alea Mediterranean Eatery
In the heart of Cleveland’s Ohio City, Alea Mediterranean Eatery is a hidden treasure. It has been making food lovers happy for five years. Chef-owner Athan Zarnas leads the way with a fresh take on Mediterranean food. He uses live-fire cooking to bring out the bold tastes of the region.
Mediterranean Small Plates with a Live-Fire Twist
Alea’s menu has a mix of small plates inspired by the Mediterranean. Each dish is made with care, using the freshest ingredients. Highlights include the lamb ssam for two, a DIY lettuce wrap with tender meat, crisp veggies, and grains.
Also, try the seasonal pork chop milanese. It comes with a Thai-inspired green curry sauce that adds a unique taste.
The place has only 33 seats, making it cozy and exclusive. It’s great for a special evening or a small group. The wood-fired hearth is where the magic happens. Here, Chef Zarnas and his team prepare delicious Mediterranean dishes.
“The ambiance at Alea is industrial, youthful, and refreshing, with a simple and clean decor that lets the food take center stage.”
Alea’s menu changes with the seasons and focuses on sustainable, local ingredients. It offers a unique and unforgettable dining experience. Whether you love seafood or want to taste the Mediterranean, Alea is a must-visit.
Amba: Spice Up Your Lunch with Indian Flavors
In the trendy Hingetown area of Ohio City, Amba brings a lively dining experience with its Indian-inspired small plates. Co-owners Douglas Katz and Todd Thompson turned an old machine shop into a beautiful 6,000-square-foot restaurant. The place has an industrial look that highlights their food journey.
The Amba menu offers a variety of shareable plates. These dishes let diners taste the rich flavors of Indian cuisine. You’ll find everything from soft clay bread to vibrant beetroot raita yogurt. Each dish is made with great care.
The spicy sloppy Joe with keema venison-tomato curry and crispy puris mix textures and tastes well. The popcorn chicken, with its barbecue sauce and serrano chilies, adds a nice kick of heat.
“At Amba, we aim to bring the bold, authentic flavors of India to the heart of Cleveland, creating a dining experience that is both elevated and approachable,” says co-owner Douglas Katz.
Amba is becoming a top choice for lunch in Cleveland. It’s known for its vibrant atmosphere and innovative Indian-inspired small plates. It offers a unique and tasty culinary adventure.
Astoria: Taste the Mediterranean at this Greek Lunch Spot
Astoria is a favorite spot in Gordon Square for those who love Mediterranean food with a Greek twist. Chef Cory Kobrinski leads the kitchen, offering a menu full of Greek cuisine and Mediterranean culinary tradition.
Explore Cheese and Charcuterie Boards
Astoria is known for its amazing cheese and charcuterie boards. Guests can enjoy a mix of artisanal cheeses, cured meats, fresh produce, olives, and homemade preserves. This Mediterranean-inspired setup lets diners taste the region’s flavors and find new favorites.
The menu also features Greek-influenced dishes made by Chef Cory Kobrinski. Try the tangy dolmades or the juicy lamb and ricotta meatballs with pasta and tomato sauce. Each dish brings the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean to your plate.
For dessert, the portokalopita is a must. This cake is soaked in a sweet orange syrup, ending your meal with a refreshing citrus taste.
Looking for a relaxing lunch or a spot for a casual get-together? Astoria in Gordon Square offers a Mediterranean culinary experience. It feels like a trip to Greece, with dishes that highlight Greek influence and Mediterranean cuisine.
Batuqui: Authentic Brazilian Lunch Restaurant
In the heart of Cleveland’s Larchmere neighborhood, Batuqui shines as a spot for traditional Brazilian food. Carla Batista and Gustavo Nogueira run this place, bringing tastes from Bahia and Minas Gerais to Cleveland. It’s a true taste of Batuqui‘s real flavors.
Savor Traditional Feijoada and Pao de Queijo
The menu at Batuqui is all about two big dishes: feijoada, a rich black bean stew with pork, and pao de queijo, a cheesy bread from Minas Gerais. These dishes, along with the caipirinha cocktail, take you on a trip through traditional Brazilian cuisine in Cleveland.
| Dish | Description |
|---|---|
| Feijoada | A classic Brazilian black bean stew, made with a variety of pork and sausage, served with rice, kale, and an orange slice. |
| Pao de Queijo | Chewy and delicious gluten-free cheese bread, a specialty from the state of Minas Gerais. |
Batuqui is moving to a new spot, from its old place on Larchmere Boulevard to the old St. Paul’s Evangelical Church, just 130 feet west. The new spot will have room for about 110 guests, making dining there cozy and engaging. The current spot will stay open all summer, and the new place will be ready by fall.
“We are thrilled to bring our authentic Brazilian cuisine to a larger space and continue sharing the flavors of our homeland with the Cleveland community.”
–Carla Batista, Co-Owner of Batuqui
Batuqui is also opening a second spot in Chagrin Falls, spreading its traditional Brazilian cuisine even more in Northeast Ohio. The new place has a special bar, a small front patio, and a spot for private events and live shows. It aims to make dining there even better for both regulars and new guests.
Cordelia: Award-Winning Lunch Restaurant in Downtown Cleveland
Cordelia is a top lunch spot in downtown Cleveland since 2022. Chef-partner Vinnie Cimino leads the kitchen, nominated for a James Beard Award. The menu brings together the best of Midwest comfort food.
At Cordelia, you can try the Bellie Up tasting menu. It features popular dishes from the kitchen. Highlights include carrot muhummara, corned lamb, and a cheeseburger like White Castle’s.
With 200 seats and a 4.4 rating from 184 reviews, Cordelia is a hit. It’s known for Midwest comfort food and Vinnie Cimino’s creative dishes. This makes it a top choice for lunch in downtown Cleveland.
“Cordelia is a true gem in the heart of Cleveland, offering a refined yet comforting dining experience that celebrates the flavors of the Midwest. Chef Vinnie Cimino’s talent shines through in every dish, making it a must-try for anyone who appreciates exceptional cuisine.”
Cents Pizza: Wood-Fired Lunch Pizzas in Ohio City
In Ohio City, Cents Pizza is a modern spot for wood-fired pizzas. Chef Vincent Morelli brings his pizza skills from Los Angeles and New York. He offers pies that will impress even the pickiest eaters.
Don’t miss the Sunday gravy pizza at Cents Pizza. It’s made with Morelli’s grandma’s meatball recipe. The mix of classic Italian tastes and wood-fired smokiness makes it unforgettable.
| Restaurant | Rating | Reviews |
|---|---|---|
| Cents Pizza | 4.5 | 95 |
| Il Rione | 4.7 | 362 |
| Sainato’s at Rivergate | 3.7 | 128 |
| Tripi | 4.8 | 20 |
| Crust | 4.2 | 284 |
| Lil Ronnie’s | 4.4 | 18 |
| Pizza 216 | 3.8 | 393 |
Cents Pizza is known for more than just wood-fired pizzas. They also have outdoor seating, delivery, and takeout. This makes it easy for everyone to enjoy their food.
“The Sunday gravy pizza at Cents is a must-try for anyone who loves classic Italian flavors with a modern twist. It’s a true tribute to my grandmother’s recipe, and I’m proud to share it with our customers.”
– Vincent Morelli, Chef and Owner of Cents Pizza
Edwins: French Cuisine with a Social Mission
In Cleveland’s Shaker Square, Edwins Restaurant & Institute is a standout spot. It combines top-notch French food with a big social goal. Brandon Chrostowski, a big believer in giving people a second chance, started it. Edwins trains and hires people who have been incarcerated, helping them get back on their feet.
Walking into Edwins feels like you’re in a Parisian bistro. The decor is elegant, and the menu features French favorites. You’ll find dishes like garlicky escargots, a tasty le burger, and paupiettes de merou (grouper in a potato wrap with buttery sauce). Each dish shows the restaurant’s dedication to great food.
Edwins is more than a place to eat; it’s a movement. Brandon Chrostowski believes everyone deserves a chance to turn their life around. So, Edwins offers training, support, and even help with things like housing and childcare to its trainees.
“Eat Well, Do Good” is what Edwins is all about. It mixes the pleasure of French cuisine with the chance to make a difference.
If you come to Edwins for the food or the story behind it, you’ll be impressed. This French restaurant is making a big difference in Cleveland and beyond.
Fahrenheit: Upscale American Lunch Experience
In the heart of downtown Cleveland, Fahrenheit is known for its top-notch midday meals. Chef Rocco Whalen leads the way with his upscale American dishes. He offers lavish seafood towers filled with the freshest seafood.
Guests can enjoy a variety of seafood towers. Each one features oysters, Alaskan king crab legs, and Maine lobster tails. Chef Whalen’s special sauces and seasonings add depth to the fresh flavors. It’s perfect for celebrating or just a fancy lunch.
| Cuisine | Atmosphere | Pricing |
|---|---|---|
| Contemporary American, Continental, American | Fine dining, Special occasions | $31 to $50 per person |
Fahrenheit is a top choice for an upscale American lunch in Cleveland. It’s known for its great location, excellent service, and Chef Whalen’s skills. Whether you want a seafood tower or other dishes, this place is a must-visit.
“The seafood towers at Fahrenheit are a true work of art, showcasing the best of the sea with Chef Whalen’s signature flair.”
Lunch Restaurant: Dante’s Basement Sushi Bar in Tremont
In the heart of Cleveland’s vibrant Tremont neighborhood, Dante’s Basement Sushi Bar is a top choice for lunch. Chef Dante Boccuzzi runs this spot, known for its quality and consistency. It’s a favorite for those looking for a great sushi meal during the day.
The restaurant is in a cozy basement spot, offering a warm and welcoming feel. The menu has a wide range of sushi, from classic rolls to new creations. Prices for high-quality maki and nigiri sushi are $50 to $60 per person for a good selection.
For a deeper sushi experience, try the omakase-style tasting menus. These menus let chefs pick the freshest, seasonal fish for you. They start at $60, which is a great deal for those who love sushi.
There’s more than sushi at Dante’s Basement Sushi Bar. They have appetizers from $3 to $50 and shabu shabu dishes from $25 to $50. On Fridays, they offer Bento box meals for just $14.95, perfect for a quick, satisfying lunch.
Dante’s Basement Sushi Bar in Tremont is known for its quality and dedication to the community. It’s a top spot for sushi lovers and anyone in Cleveland looking for a great lunch. Whether you want a quick Bento box or a special omakase meal, this place will impress you.
Tips for Finding the Best Local Lunch Restaurants
Looking for the perfect local lunch spot? Check out hidden gems and neighborhood hot spots. These places often have amazing food and a cozy vibe that makes lunch special.
Explore Neighborhood Hot Spots
Don’t just stick to the well-known places. Look for local lunch spots that are changing the game. They might not be famous, but they serve up real, tasty food. Ask friends, coworkers, or look online for tips on great local lunch spots.
Check Online Reviews and Ratings
Online reviews and ratings are super helpful today. Spend some time reading what customers say about the food, service, and their overall experience. This way, you can find local lunch places that are known for their great food and service.
By checking out neighborhood hot spots and reading online reviews, you’ll easily find your new favorite lunch spot. A bit of research and an open mind will lead you to hidden treasures that will be a big part of your lunch routine.
Conclusion
Cleveland’s lunch scene is full of variety, from cozy cafes to fancy places. You can find everything from Brazilian food to spicy Indian dishes and classic American meals. This guide shows you the best places to eat in the city. By checking out these spots, you’ll likely find a new favorite place to grab lunch.
The restaurant world needs to get better at doing things more efficiently to stay on top. Using checklists for opening and closing helps make things quicker and smoother. These checklists help with serving customers faster, keeping things clean, managing stock, and making the end of the day easier for managers.
Restaurants are dealing with higher wages, food prices, and not enough staff. But, having clear checklists can help make things run better and lead to success over time. Cleveland’s lunch scene is always getting better, offering a wide range of tasty options for everyone.
