Visit An Old Favorite or Discover Something New in Your Neighborhood

Amp 150 4277 W. 150th St. (inside the Airport Marriott), 216-706-8787. Ignoring a restaurant because it resides in a hotel is not only unfair – it’s unwise, as evidenced by this contemporary American gem. Upending stereotypes at every turn, Amp relies on locally grown ingredients to fashion its modern, seasonal, and delightful dishes. Divided into sections for sharing, small plates, entrées, and sides, the affordable menu is ideal for guests who come and go at all hours of the day. $$$

B Spot 28699 Chagrin Blvd., Woodmere, 216-292-5567. When Michael Symon set out to craft Cleveland’s best burger, he didn’t take the task lightly. Built with beef supplied by legendary New York purveyor Pat LaFrieda, the burgers explode with beefy goodness. Other B’s include brats, beer, and bad-ass milkshakes. Tack on orders of rosemary-scented Lola fries, golden onion rings, or blazing-hot Sriracha wings. $$

Blue Point Grille 700 W. St. Clair Ave., 216-875-STAR. Well-prepared fresh seafood is the specialty at this beautifully renovated space in the Warehouse District. Don’t miss Blue Point chowder or the grouper over lobster-mashed potatoes. $$$$

Chinato 2079 E. 4th St., 216-298-9080. Chinato makes diners feel special with redefined Italian dishes served in a contemporary setting. Start with glistening crudo or a bowl of unabashedly salty seafood fritto misto. Chinato’s pastas are lush, dreamy and (fortunately) available in half portions. Entrées include buttery skate wing, Amarone-braised beef and brilliant porchetta. $$$

Cowell & Hubbard 1305 Euclid Ave., 216-479-0555. This being Zack Bruell’s fifth Cleveland restaurant, diners now know they can expect high-caliber service, an interior pulled from the pages of Architectural Digest, and a menu the size of Atlas Shrugged. What Bruell calls “modern French-American” might just as well be billed New Mediterranean, with nods to Morocco, France and Italy. In the end, the food is characteristically Bruellian: tidy stacks of meat and veg resting in an opulent sauce, diamond-cut by the acidity of lemon. $$$

Dante 2247 Professor Ave., 216-274-1200. Native Clevelander Dante Boccuzzi has worked his way around the globe, with stints in London, Milan, Hong Kong, San Francisco and New York. Now settled in Tremont, his contemporary bistro borrows from Italian, American and Asian cuisines. Still, no meal is complete without a sample of the chef’s killer pasta, polenta or risotto, all available by the taste. $$$-$$$$

1890 420 Superior Ave., 216-776-4576. This sleekly outfitted restaurant and bar has a view like no other, overlooking the promenades of the elaborate, historic, and exquisitely restored Arcade. The glam setting, in combination with well-prepared breakfast and lunch fare, makes it a fine choice for travelers and downtown workers alike. $-$$

Empress Taytu 6125 St. Clair Ave., 216-391-9400. Behind the doors of Empress Taytu awaits an exotic culinary adventure of the first order. The restaurant serves authentic Ethiopian foods, including beef, lamb, chicken and vegetarian dishes cooked with a variety of spices and herbs. $$-$$$

Fahrenheit 2417 Professor Ave. 216-781-8858 Fahrenheit opened in Tremont back in 2002, making chef Rocco Whalen one of the earlier culinary pioneers of that neighborhood. That the restaurant has continued to thrive in what has become an exceedingly fierce marketplace is a testament to its quality and broad appeal. Whalen’s brassy American cuisine delivers in terms of ingredients, preparation and presentation, making it a destination for diners from as far afield as both coasts. Vietnamese chicken spring rolls, Kobe beef short ribs, coffee-crusted pork tenderloin and dreamy pizza pies are some of the reasons guests continue to flock here, but more than anything it’s Whalen’s passion for his food, his neighborhood, and his city that warms the cockles. $$$-$$$$

Fat Cats 2061 W. 10th St., 216-579-0200. The eclectic, contemporary menu at this Tremont fixture is a good match for its shabby-chic decor; and somehow, dishes like bouillabaisse, seared duck breast, and sausage-and-goat-cheese rigatoni taste better when devoured ‘neath the light of candles and lava lamps. Friendly staffers and a full bar are other reasons to pad on into this neighborhood gem. $$-$$$

Fire Food & Drink 3220 Shaker Square 216-921-3473. You know those women who never seem to age? That’s how we feel about Fire, Doug Katz’s 13-year-old bistro that looks as if it opened just yesterday. The industrial chic dining room, the baby-smooth concrete bar, the open kitchen, the snappy linens… the place defines “timeless appeal.” The American menu is both static and dynamic, filled with popular signature dishes that receive quarterly seasonal tweaks, augmented by daily features, built from market fresh ingredients. We’re not quite sure how a tandoor oven works, but we do know that everything that comes out of it tastes like gold. $$$-$$$$

Flying Fig 2523 Market Ave., 216-241-4243. Chef-owner Karen Small stocks her larder with simple, homegrown ingredients, then coaxes them into precise assemblages of soaring flavor at this hip, youthful, and energetic bistro in the heart of Ohio City. And as any trendinista will tell you, the Fig’s happy hours are among the best in the city for unwinding on a budget. $$$-$$$$

Great Lakes Brewing Company 2516 Market Ave., 216-771-4404. A true Cleveland original, this award-winning brewery features contemporary pub fare that’s as good-tasting and as authentic as its historic space. Outstanding craft-brewed beers on tap. $$$

Greenhouse Tavern 2038 East Fourth St. 216-393-4302. Besides Michael Symon, there might be no Cleveland chef who has done more to attract positive national attention than Jonathon Sawyer. In addition to Greenhouse Tavern’s selection as one of the “Top 10 Best New Restaurants in the U.S.” by Bon Appetit, Sawyer also snagged a spot in Food & Wine’s 2010 class of “Best New Chefs.” And the accolades haven’t stopped coming, all further bolstering Cleveland as a major foodie town while increasing local culinary tourism. Genial, passionate and wickedly creative in the kitchen, Sawyer makes an ideal ambassador for our food scene. At the restaurant, diners are treated to a rare combination of haute and familiar, where dishes like beef tartar, foie gras-steamed clams and aged Ohio lamb are dished up in a modern tavern setting. And where else in town can an adventurous diner tuck into a roasted pig face, a delicious dish that belies its ghoulish visage. $$-$$$$

Grumpy’s Cafe 2621 W. 14th St. 216-241-5025. A devastating fire once put Grumpy’s out of commission for two years, but owner Kathy Owad resurrected the beloved Tremont café in a cozy new space that now has lines spilling out the doors every weekend. Serving breakfast, lunch, dinner, weekend brunch and late-night weekend dining, Grumpy’s pretty much has you covered morning, noon and night. Expect hearty plates of reasonably priced, stick-to-your-ribs comfort food served with cheerfulness. $-$$

Happy Dog 5801 Detroit Ave., 216-651-9474. Fries, tater tots, and custom-made hot dogs with a choice of 50 toppings form the core of the Happy Dog menu. But when taken in combination with a rockin’ vibe, plenty of live music, and an impressive roundup of beers (including more than 20 on tap), it makes this little bar one of the biggest draws in town. And east siders are in on the game now too, with the opening of the Happy Dog (boasting all the same great food and booze) in the old Euclid Tavern spot in University Circle. $-$$

Johnny’s Bar 3164 Fulton Rd., 216-281-0055. Dark, intimate, and timelessly elegant, this manly little jewel box of a restaurant is the sort of place you suggest when you want to impress the boss, wow a date, or just remind yourself why you work so damn hard. The menu is crammed with upscale Italian specialties, including some stunning risottos and one of the city’s finest long-boned veal chops; at lunch, though – pssst – the char-grilled burger is out of this world. $$$-$$$$

Johnny’s Downtown 1406 W. 6th St., 216-623-0055. How does it feel to be one of the beautiful people? Go to this opulent Warehouse District restaurant and find out. The kitchen’s heady creations are nearly as grand as the room itself, with bold flavors, savory ingredients, and a pleasantly upscale Italian accent. Hey, at least our dreams of the good life are free. $$$-$$$$

Lola 2058 East Fourth St. 216-621-5652. Initially, it’s the name. After all, “Michael Symon” is why you have dinner reservations in Cleveland in the first place. Then you turn the corner and see East Fourth Street for the first time and think, “This is pretty cool.” The expanse of glass that fronts Lola offers a few glimpses of what’s to come: bustling bar, radiant bartop, massive wall of wine. Once fully inside, the room comes into view – the dramatically lit 15-foot coffered ceiling, the one-of-a-kind chandeliers, the titanic open kitchen manned by a small cadre of cooks and chefs. Apps come – pearly oysters perhaps, or the now-famous beef cheek pierogies – and you crack a small smile. A brave soul at the table orders the grilled veal heart and you force down a small bite. And then a larger one. You’ve had halibut before, but it’s never managed to taste like this. Another bottle of pinot? Yes, please. You can’t possibly make room for dessert, but then you do, along with a few nibbles of ripe cheese, an after-dinner bourbon. It can’t be 10:30 p.m., can it? $$$-$$$$

Lucky’s Café 777 Starkweather Ave., 216-622-7773. This cozy little café offers simple all-day breakfasts, a roundup of lunchtime sandwiches, and bounteous weekend brunches, including several options just right for the meat-free crowd. Regardless of the time, don’t overlook owner Heather Haviland’s well-stocked pastry counter, filled with imaginative muffins, scintillating scones, and brightly frosted cupcakes, among other sweet delights. $$

Melt Bar and Grilled 13463 Cedar Road, Cleveland Heights, 216-965-0988. Rightly praised for its gigantic stuffed and toasted grilled cheese sandwiches, this home-grown phenomenon fills bellies and buoys spirits. Fillings range from the austere to the ridiculous, such as the pair of cheese pierogies inside the Parmageddon. Wicked beer list, kitsch-filled dining room, and rockin’ tunes create a festive atmosphere. $$

Michaelangelo’s 2198 Murray Hill Rd., 216-721-0300. Trained in Italy’s Piedmont region, talented chef-owner Michael Annandono tackles an ambitious repertoire of mostly northern Italian fare with consistently delicious results. We can rarely resist the delicate homemade pastas, served in a room that is as elegantly understated as the food itself. Italian and Californian wine list. $$$

Momocho 1835 Fulton Rd. 216-694-2122. When Momocho chef-owner Eric Williams introduced Cleveland diners to “Mod Mex,” he did so only after years of running kitchens at Johnny Mango and Lopez. His creative takes on regional Mexican cuisine work because they are grounded in history, familiarity and respect for ingredients. Thus, Momocho’s smoked trout and bacon guacamole is both classic and modern – and always delicioso. Flavor-seeking diners flock here for roll-your-own beer-braised goat taquitos, crab and smoked trout chilaquiles, and pepita-crusted trout. “Quality and consistency are the keys to our success,” says Williams. An unbending edict if ever there was one.1835 Fulton Rd. $$-$$$

Moxie 3355 Richmond Rd., Beachwood, 216-831-5599. Svelte and sophisticated, Moxie is where you take your business partners to impress them with your good taste. The seasonal American foods, including grilled fish, savory meats, and bountiful salads, are artfully presented by professional servers. $$$-$$$$

Parallax 2179 W. 11th St., 216-583-9999. Longtime Cleveland chef Zach Bruell’s salon is as chic as can be, with precise but unpretentious fare that finds its heart in classical technique and its soul in contemporary artistry. Options include excellent sushi, plenty of seafood and such bistro standards as juicy grilled chicken with tarragon-scented pommes frites. $$$

Pier W 12700 Lake Ave., Lakewood, 216-228-2250. A landmark dining room overlooking Lake Erie, Pier W combines a sophisticated, contemporary interior with worldly cuisine focused on fish and seafood. (Check out the fine bouillabaisse, for instance, a house signature.) Factor in its jaw-dropping view of the downtown skyline, and its no wonder that Pier W is one of the city’s most beloved restaurants. $$$

Pura Vida 170 Euclid Ave., 216-987-0100. Veteran chef Brandt Evans’ Public Square restaurant is a breath of fresh air for downtowners, with a spare decor, an urbane vibe, and rustically refined menus built from local, sustainable ingredients.A stickler for details, Evans pays equal attention to every element of a dish. He does, however, leave room for whimsy, as evidenced by the occasional odd ingredient and deconstructed arrangement. Full bar. $$$

Red, the Steakhouse 3355 Richmond Rd., Beachwood, 216-831-2252. Luscious slabs of beef and creative, indulgent salads, sides and desserts make this modern American steakhouse a prime location for well-heeled meat-eaters. A well-organized wine list, gracious service and contemporary rustic decor with a Napa-like sophistication complete the region’s best steakhouse with a second location also downtown near East Fourth. $$$$

Ristorante Giovanni’s 25550 Chagrin Blvd., Beachwood, 216-831-8625. One of the last remaining grande dames of the region’s formal dining scene, this elegant Italian restaurant offers impeccable appointments, attentive service and a luxurious menu of steaks, veal chops, seafood and pasta. Yes, it is expensive. But the chance to put on a suit and feel like a grown-up? Priceless. $$$$

Table 45 9801 Carnegie Ave. (Intercontinental Hotel) 216-707-4045. A happy alliance of modern architecture and contemporary cuisine, Table 45 offers an enticing collection of global fare that blends sophistication with unpretentious appeal. The kitchen may borrow freely from Indian, Mediterranean, and South American pantries, but the clear, focused flavors are all its own. $$$

Tommy’s 1824 Coventry Rd., Cleveland Hts., 216-321-7757. Hippie or hipster, young or old, meathead or vegan, Clevelanders have been flocking to this culinary landmark since 1972, hungry for the big assortment of creative and unusual sandwiches, soups and salads. After a healthy hummus-stuffed ripe tomato or a grilled-cheese sandwich with veggies, sunflower seeds and sesame sauce, be sure to splurge on a creamy, old-fashioned malt or milkshake. $$

Touch Supper Club 2710 Lorain Ave., 216-631-5200. Big flavors and small prices distinguish the menu at this Ohio City restaurant, bar, and dance club, where the menu glides easily between contemporary comfort fare (think short ribs or macaroni & cheese) and upscale bar noshes (don’t miss the egg-topped burger). Adding to the sense of value, count tasteful amenities, a trendy vibe, and friendly, attentive servers. Afterward, burn off the calories in the downstairs dance club. $$

American

Bascule Bridge Grille 1006 Bridge St., Ashtabula, 440-964-0301. When it comes to picturesque settings, this relative newcomer steals the show. Located on Bridge Street in the heart of the historic Ashtabula Harbor, the bistro is right by the architecturally compelling Bascule Bridge. Diners will find the same level of attention placed in the food, a seasonal roundup of farm-to-table starters, salads and mains. Start with crab cakes, move on to chorizo-spiked mussels, and round off your meal with a hearty Berkshire Pork Chop. $$–$$$

Battise & Dupree Cajun Grill 1992 Warrensville Center Rd. 216-381-3341. Owner, chef, host, server, bartender, and busser: Junior Battiste really does it all. As a result, dining in this teensy Cajun restaurant can be an adventure, marked by warmth, whimsy, and occasionally slow service. Still, those who value style and substance over speed won’t be disappointed: Junior’s made-from-scratch cookin’ is some of the best in town. $$

Big Al’s Diner 12600 Larchmere Blvd., 216-791-8550. If you miss Mom’s cooking, this is the place to get your fix. Big Al’s has all the comforting favorites, like thick, steaming soups, housemade mashed potatoes with gravy, open-faced roast beef sandwiches and chocolate cake for dessert. Breakfast is served until the diner’s late-afternoon closing time. $-$$

Bistro 185 991 E. 185th St., 216-481-9635. Neighbors have thanked owners Marc and Ruth Levine for “not being another wing-and-beer joint,” while others appreciate them for not being too upscale. Bistro 185 takes the glorious middle road, offering hearty made-from-scratch comfort dishes at blue-collar prices. $$$

Blue Canyon Kitchen & Tavern 8960 Wilcox Dr., Twinsburg, 330-486-BLUE. Perched on a hill overlooking the Ohio countryside, this rambling lodge offers a lovely backdrop for Executive Chef Brandt Evans’ hearty American fare. While entrées like short ribs and mac ‘n’ cheese may sound homey, count on Evans to update them with luxury ingredients and season them with culinary magic. $$$

Bourbon Street Barrel Room  2393 Professor Ave., 216-298-4400. A monumental renovation project has converted a former art gallery into a splashy two-level dining room that conjures images of the lively French Quarter. Chef Johnny Schulze, a Baton Rouge native, turns out soul-satisfying dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, crawfish etouffe, barbecue shrimp, red beans and rice and other Cajun and Creole classics. $$

Briquettes Smokehouse  1035 Bridge St., Ashtabula, 440-964-2273. Since 2009, this restaurant in an historic Ashtabula address has been dishing up award-winning barbecue. They do it right here, slow-smoking the meats onsite over fruity cherry wood. Folks come from all around for heaping platters of St. Louis style ribs, pulled pork, chopped chicken, beef brisket and all those delicious side dishes. Old-fashioned milkshakes are the cherry on top. $$

Bubba’s Q 820 Center Rd., Avon, 440-937-7859. Former Browns player Al “Bubba” Baker has discovered life beyond the gridiron – and it’s dry-rubbed, slow-smoked, and slathered with homemade BBQ sauce. While Bubba’s St. Louis-style ribs are meaty monsters, his boneless baby-back rib “steak” is one for the record books, deboned by a secret process and tender enough to cut with a fork. $$$

Club Isabella 2175 Cornell Rd., 216-229-1111. This new incarnation of Club Isabella sparkles in every way, from the gorgeous setting to the original and eclectic cuisine from chef-owner Fabio Mota. Among the seafood-centric options: buttery frogs legs, fried sweet and spicy cuttlefish, crab-rich pasta, monkfish in smoky bacon-studded cream sauce, and scallops with braised pork belly. $$$$

Corky & Lenny’s 27091 Chagrin Blvd., Woodmere, 216-464-3838. Despite its bright new decor, Corky & Lenny’s remains that most venerable of urban eating establishments: a good Jewish deli. From garlicky dills waiting at each table to the fizzy chocolate phosphates, all the traditional noshes are on hand. Corned beef is lean and flavorful, latkes are fat and tender, and the creamy cheesecake may be the best in town. $$-$$$

The Diner on 55th 1328 E. 55th St., 216-361-0550. A visit to Jim Anagnostos’s shiny silver diner is a nostalgic trip back through time, to the days of all-American meals like meatloaf and gravy, liver and onions, and classic chili. $$

Elements Bistro on Euclid 2300 Euclid Ave., 216-802-3131. Saving students and staff from another semester of sloppy joes and shepherd’s pie, this sharp bistro on the CSU campus looks, feels and tastes like an independent restaurant. Featuring locally sourced ingredients, the ambitious breakfast and lunch menus tempt both coeds and the community at large at weekday breakfasts and lunches. Attractive sheltered patio. $$

Gamekeeper’s Taverne 87 West St., Chagrin Falls, 440-247-7744. If you think everything fades after three decades, check out this mainstay of the East Side dining scene, where the seasonal menu of well-crafted cuisine remains reliably, vibrantly up-to-date. Summer lunches on the shady, tree-lined patio are a high point of the season; in the winter, several fireplaces make for cozy indoor dining. $$$-$$$$

Grovewood Tavern & Wine Bar 17105 Grovewood Ave., 216-531-4900. Over the years, this vintage tavern has gone from a shabby little shot-and-a-beer joint to a welcoming destination, with a long, eclectic menu ranging from spicy noodle yakitori to burgers and fries, an impressive beer collection, and one of the best-priced wine lists in the region. $$$

Grove Hill  25 Pleasant Dr., Chagrin Falls, 440-247-4800. Veteran chef Tim Bando, whose culinary CV stretches back to Michael Symon and the Caxton Café days, has renovated the historic Raintree restaurant in Chagrin Falls into a cozy but modern pub-like environment. The menu is flush with contemporary American comfort foods like steaks and chops, seafood and pasta, and bubble-filled brunches. A hand-crafted kids’ menu is proof of the chef’s commitment to provide a family friendly environment. $$-$$$

Heck’s Café 2927 Bridge St., 216-861-5464. Heading into its fourth decade, this charming Ohio City café remains a reliable, if non-trendy, refuge for lunch, dinner, or Sunday brunch, best enjoyed in the airy garden room, a mug of cinnamon-scented coffee at hand. While gourmet burgers are the specialty of the house, other options abound, including salads, wraps, steaks, and pastas. $$$

Hodge’s 668 Euclid Ave., 216-771-4000. Riding high from the success of two popular food trucks – not to mention a Food Network reality show appearance – Chris Hodgson landed his first bricks-and-mortar restaurant. Teaming up with the experienced Scott Kuhn, Hodge delivers exciting, approachable dishes with broad appeal. Who can resist lobster corn dogs, flaky goat-cheese tarts, and light-as-air gnudi? For the mains, dig into a pasta version of French onion soup, pitch-perfect duck breast, and luxurious braised lamb shank. $$$

Jezebel’s Bayou 12718 Larchmere Blvd., 216-721-3877. This attractive Larchmere Boulevard space is operated by the folks behind Angie’s Soul Café and Zanzibar Soul Fusion. Here, the focus is on Cajun and Creole dishes inspired by the Big Easy: Think authentically prepared gumbo, jambalaya, BBQ shrimp, and étouffée. The seafood is fresh, the sauces vivacious, the portions robust, and the prices right where they should be. $$$

Ken Stewart’s East Bank 1121 W. 10th St. 216-696-8400. Ken Stewart is one of Northeast Ohio’s most popular and long-standing restaurateurs, with a portfolio that includes outposts in Akron and his newest addition, the high-end but budget-friendly Ken Stewart’s East Bank. Whether you’re in search of affordable but high quality small plates or dishes you can order nowhere else, Ken Stewart’s East Bank and its opulent but friendly operation has the right dish for you. $$-$$$$

Lava Lounge 1307 Auburn Ave., 216-589-9112. Behind its bland, blue-collar-bar exterior, the Lava Lounge has morphed into a hip, happenin’ hangout, with an eclectic menu of deliciously prepared “small plate” noshes to mix and match. Best of all, the kitchen stays open until 2 a.m. nightly. Intriguing selection of imported beers. $$

Mahall’s 20 Lanes 13200 Madison Ave., Lakewood, 216-521-3280. A mecca of awesomeness, with food, cocktails, music, bowling and beer. The doors opened in 1924. In 2012, new owners re-vamped the menu and space while holding onto the business’s historical integrity and glory. Some menu highlights include fried chicken, housemade cornbread, the deluxe burger, elote (Mexican corn-cob) and an ever-changing array of veggies. If you’re just looking for snacks, the curry popcorn and Mitchell’s vanilla bean milkshakes are not to be missed. $$

Market at the Fig 2523 Market Ave., 216-241-4243. Chef Karen Small transformed a seldom-used private dining room at Flying Fig into a sleek gourmet retail marketplace. The European-style shop offers a deft mix of prepared foods, made-to-order sandwiches, specialty retail products, and beer and wine. Sandwiches could not be better, prepared as they are with impeccable ingredients and fresh-baked breads. Heat-and-eat foods like Ohio barbecue beef, veal ricotta meatballs, and cheese quiche provide heartier options come dinnertime. $$

Michelson & Morley 11038 Bellflower Dr. 216-368-0801. Located in Case Western Reserve University’s new Tinkham Veale University Center, M&M – named after former CWRU professors Albert Michelson and Edward Morley, whose work led to the Nobel Prize for physics in 1907 – is graduate-level dining at its best. Whether you’re around town or catching a concert at Severance Hall, M&M is a thoughtful bistro with fresh, seasonal American fare with nods to global cuisine. How appropriate in a college setting. $$-$$$

Parkview Nite Club 1261 W. 58th St., 216-961-1341. One part sports bar, one part blues club, and 100 percent Cleveland, this vintage neighborhood watering hole has a funky, friendly persona that embraces guests of all ages. But the best thing about the Parkview is the above-average housemade food. With lunch items that range from pierogi to smoked salmon BLTs; steak, chicken, and a definitive fish-fry for dinner; and bacon, blintzes, and eggs Benedict at the popular Sunday brunch, this is one club you’ll be happy to belong to. $$-$$$

Prosperity Social Club 1109 Starkweather Ave., 216-937-1938. This retro-style tavern is a time machine, where visitors can soak up another era along with their libations. But while the surroundings say 1938, the vibe is up-to-date, with au courant cocktails, a trendy beer list, and a retinue of well-priced sandwiches, salads, and entrées – including the house specialty, fried oysters. $$

The Rail 3265 West Market St., Akron, 330-864-7245. Launched by Wooster chef-restaurateur Mike Mariola, the Rail is one of the most attractive adaptations of the gourmet burger bar to hit Northeast Ohio. Mariola’s meat methodology consists of using local, grain-fed beef for his meaty half-pounders. Pair them with crunchy starters and sides, great craft beers, creamy hand-dipped milkshakes, and a trio of salads. $$

Reddstone 1261 West 76th St., 216-651-6969. The lights are low and the vibe is friendly inside this snug neighborhood tavern, a recently remodeled gem where the kitchen belts out tasty riffs on all-American bar food, including fresh-ground burgers, zesty fried calamari, and saucy, spicy chicken wings. Besides a solid collection of artisanal brews, the bar serves up inventive cocktails – some with a seasonal twist. Come summer, the secluded patio is the place to be. $$-$$$

Rennick Meat Market 1104 Bridge St., Ashtabula, 440-964-6328. This new Ashtabula bistro would fit right into trendy Tremont. Billed as “butcher-inspired American Food,” the cuisine is approachable but fun, creative but grounded. Moving from snacks and small plates to entrees and sides, the menu is loaded with tantalizing options ranging from sausage-stuffed olives and shrimp and grits to vegetable pot pie and Hungarian goulash. But this is a “meat market,” so of course there’s an entire section devoted to steaks, chops and other meaty bits. $$-$$$

Rick’s Café 86 North Main St., Chagrin Falls, 440-247-7666. For over 30 years, Rick’s has served as the kitchen away from home for hungry Chagrin Falls residents. Unfussy and satisfying, the hearty American fare includes homemade soups, fresh salads, great burgers and now-famous barbecue ribs and chicken. Full bar and small patio. $$

Rockefeller’s 3099 Mayfield Rd., Cleveland Heights, 216-321-0477. For years, this breathtakingly beautiful French Norman space has been reserved for private functions. With the unveiling of Rockefeller’s, guests now can dine in an extravagant room built for a tycoon. Seasonal American with the occasional Asian kick, the dishes are creative but restrained and always delicious. Lounge seating with a complementary menu gives late-night noshers a tasteful place to roost. $$$

Rosewood Grill 36 E. Streetsboro Rd., Hudson, 330-656-2100. This handsome dining room earns praise for quality, execution, and value, if not ground-breaking originality. Contemporary American in spirit, the approachable menu marries shareable starters, bountiful salads, and crowd-pleasing sandwiches with choice steaks, pastas, and seafood. Full bar and patio with fire pit. $$$

Soho Kitchen and Bar 1889 West 25th St., 216-298-9090. Short for Southern hospitality, SoHo serves fresh takes on Low Country, Cajun, and Creole cuisine. On the snappy and cohesive menu are classic Southern staples like shrimp and grits, catfish Po’ Boys, and chicken and waffles, all dressed up for a more demanding modern audience. Even the cocktails scream Deep South, with bourbon, rye and moonshine-fueled bevies going down like sweet tea on a sticky summer day. $$$

South East Gears & Cheers 23333 Aurora Rd. 440-232-0029. This unique joint in Bedford Heights promises that if you like cars, rock ‘n’ roll and great food, you won’t have a bad time. South East Gears & Cheers, of course, delivers, whether you’re a biker or someone simply in search of a delectable bar food from an extensive menu. Naturally, if you like cars and bikes, however, there’s plenty of memorabilia here to enhance the experience. Part of the South East family that includes South East Harley. $-$$

The South Side 2207 W. 11th St., 216-937-2288. Casually hip and artfully unpretentious, this clubby Tremont tavern offers good food, cold beer, stylish surroundings and frequent appearances by local bands and DJs. And if all that isn’t reason enough to visit, remember that during warm weather, the handsomely landscaped patio is one of the coolest destinations in town. $$$

Spice Kitchen & Bar 5800 Detroit Ave., Cleveland Heights, 216-961-9637. Approachable, seasonal, and expertly crafted, the food at chef Ben Bebenroth’s restaurant is a locavore’s dream, with the concise menu getting frequent tweaks. Polenta fries combine the crunch of a fry with the creaminess of soft polenta; flatbread is layered with house-smoked trout; soups swing from potato and sunchoke to chilled beet and pickled squash. While treatments change, diners can count on dishes built around flavorful local pork, chicken, and beef. $$$

The Standard  779 East 185th St., 216-531-9643. Straddling the border of Collinwood and Euclid, the Standard is a good 15 miles from Tremont – but you’d be hard pressed to know it. The owners converted an old double storefront into a sparkling bistro where agreeably compact portions of agreeably priced fare is the policy of the house. Order up small, medium and large plates like shrimp and grits, chicken paprikash, mac and cheese, and chicken Milanese to taste, pass and share. This neighborhood tavern immediately upped the appeal of the entire neighborhood. $$

Stinee’s Ribs 4129 E. 49th St. 216-441-2624. BBQ can be a tough business in Northeast Ohio, with few restaurants serving truly mouth-watering authentic ribs. Stinee’s, if you’ve never been, is one of them. Tucked away in Newburgh Heights, Stinee’s serves up juicy, slathered ribs smoked for hours with just a few other menu items like chicken, burgers and peach cobbler. It’s a rib shack, after all. And a damn fine one at that. $-$$

StrEat Burger and Bistro 16300 Detroit Ave. 216-226-0056. Izzy Schachner is one of the only local food truck operators to successfully open a brick-and-mortar restaurant that duplicates the excitement and energy of a mobile food concept. Opened last August in Lakewood, StrEat Burger Bistro comes as close to a food truck with four walls as one can possibly get – and that’s precisely why it feels fresh, fun and one-of-a-kind. As with a busy rig, the restaurant’s menu is decidedly streamlined, built around just four main menu items that are customized by the diner with various sauces, toppings and add-ons. The four legs of this menu are burgers, salads, mac and cheese and french fries – but the possibilities are limitless. $-$$

Take 5 Harbor Bistro  1035 Bridge St., Ashtabula, 440-261-9543. There’s hip and trendy, and there’s plush, romantic and elegant. This new bistro in an historic Ashtabula setting definitely falls into the latter category. The seasonal menus make full use of the local bounty, with pomegranate braised greens paired with seared diver scallops, or an heirloom pumpkin gnocchi with a smoky cream sauce. Main courses are built around duck breast, pork shanks, pork belly, arctic char and enough vegetarian options to keep everybody well covered. $$-$$$

Washington Place Bistro & Inn 2203 Cornell Rd., 216-791-6500. The former Baricelli Inn has been spruced up by new owner and hospitality pro Scott Kuhn, with a streamlined decor, a handsome bar and lounge, and a delightful menu of seasonal American dishes crafted with an eye toward local sourcing. Sunday brunch is a popular draw, as is the Wednesday-night prix fixe menu. In summer, the secluded patio is a delight. $$$-$$$$

West Side Market Café 1979 West 25th St., 216-579-6800. Another changing of the guard has placed this convenient café inside the West Side Market in good hands. Tom Szoradi, veteran chef and owner of the long-running Juniper Grille, has elevated the quality, consistency, and creativity of this breakfast-and-lunch mainstay. Breakfasts are upscale versions of diner classics; sandwiches consist of house-roasted meats atop artisan-baked breads; and fun starters like sausage-studded Hanky Pankies (cheesy fondue) and tempura-fried shitakes kick-start the meal. $$

South of the border

Barrio 806 Literary Rd., 216-999-7714. This Tremont taqueria puts the power of the pen in the diner’s hand. Guests design their own tacos from a list of some 30 components – from shell to filling to salsa to toppings. The best part: They are all just $3 each. This blissfully informal approach is a great fit for the unpretentious food. In addition to the tacos, the menu features a few starters and sides, not to mention a landslide of tequilas and margaritas. The delightful patio makes a perfect perch to enjoy them. $

Barroco Grill 12906 Madison Ave., Lakewood, 216-221-8127. This small Colombian restaurant specializes in street food – primarily homemade arepas: puffy corn tortillas, made fresh and filled with grilled steak, pork, chicken, or other savory fillings. Those same arepas also are cut into fingers, deep fried, and served with cheese fondue for dipping. Can you say “best drunk food ever”? $-$$

Benny’s Sports Café 3463 Fulton Rd. 216-661-4444. What other sports bar in the area can you go to and get authentic mofongo and plaintain canoes? Yeah, no other one. Benny’s took hold on Fulton Rd. in a location that had bounced between names and menus for awhile, and now serves a full offering of bar food staples like wings, burgers and apps, but filters in Latin flare, like the aforementioned mofongo, making it one of the more unique spots to watch a game in town. $

Brasa Grill 1300 W. 9th St. 216-575-0699. If anyone is worried about the state of the economy, you would never know it by the festive crowd mixing it up inside Ohio’s first Brazilian churrascaria. The house specialty is an endless parade of fresh-off-the-grill meats, carved tableside by a crew of peripatetic “gauchos.” A meticulously maintained buffet offers salads and more, while elegant, a la carte desserts are worth saving room for. $$$

Callaloo Café 15601 Waterloo Rd. 216-926-4673. This Collinwood eatery has managed to fly under the radar for far too long. But that will likely change as more new diners begin discovering the revitalized Waterloo neighborhood. Located just down the road from the Beachland Ballroom, this easy-going Caribbean themed café and bar dishes up non-fussy foods crafted by the Trinidad and Tobago native chef. Tuck into zesty jerk or curry chicken, chicken and vegetable rotis, crispy tofu burritos, soft tacos stuffed with fish and, of course, plenty of rice with peas. Live music, friendly folks and an artsy urban vibe combine to create a great neighborhood space. $-$$

El Tango Taqueria 14224 Madison Ave., Lakewood, 216-226-9999. Chef, artist and musician Antonio Carafelli turns humble Tex-Mex and Latino standards into flavorful masterpieces in this little Lakewood storefront. $$

Johnny Mango 3120 Bridge Ave., 216-575-1919. You’ve got to love a place that makes Ohio City feel like a beach shack in Cozumel, and Johnny Mango – a “world café” and juice bar – does just that, with a blend of Asian, Mexican, and Caribbean flavors, and items that range from burritos to pad Thai to Jamaican jerk chicken. Service is speedy, portions are hearty, and there are plenty of choices for vegetarians. Full bar and small patio. $$-$$$

Lopez Southwestern Food Club 2196 Lee Rd., Cleveland Hts., 216-932-9000. Colorful, quirky, yet sophisticated, Lopez’s urbane charms present the perfect backdrop to its creative menu of “gourmet Tex-Mex” fare, ranging from lobster empanadas to mahi-mahi tacos and blue-cheese-piqued guacamole. There’s also a solid selection of homemade desserts and an impressive array of top-shelf anejo tequilas. $$$

Luchita’s 3456 W. 117th St., 216-252-1169. From the outside, Luchita’s looks like nothing more than a corner bar in a working-class neighborhood. But inside, some of the city’s best Mexican cooking is taking shape. It is in the authentic Mexican specialties that the kitchen really shines. Dishes are delicious, well prepared, and unlike any fast-food fare. $$-$$$

Mi Pueblo Taqueria 12207 Lorain Ave., 216-671-6661. Friendly, informal and authentic, this tidy tacqueria serves bountiful portions of flavorful Mexican fare. Beyond the big burritos and saucy enchiladas, liquid options extend from creamy horchata to a fine assortment of top-shelf tequilas; now that’s what we call family-friendly! $$

Ohio City Burrito 1844 West 25th St., 216-644-0908. Consider this locally grown shop, run by an Ohio City-based brother-sister team, your alternative to that Denver-based chain, offering friendly staff, fast service, and fat burritos stuffed with a variety of freshly prepped fillings. Soft tacos and salads add variety. Take out, or dine in at one of the brightly painted tables. $

Orale Kitchen 1834 West 25th St., 216-862-3117. For years, chef Roberto Rodriguez has run a popular Mexican foods stand at the West Side Market. Now he has expanded into a restaurant in a slim Ohio City storefront. The 25-seat eatery serves contemporary Mexican cuisine like chicken mole tamales, jalapeno-dough empanadas, fish tacos, and chipotle honey glazed pork chops. A display cooler stocks many of the prepared foods sold at the market. BYOB is OK. $$

Pupuseria La Bendicion 3685 W. 105th St., 216-688-0338. This quick-casual joint specializes in those little Central American treats called pupusas. Filled with various toppings, the thick tortillas are griddle fried till crisp and corny. Also on tap here are great tacos and tamales: fresh, cheap, and utterly delicious. $$

Taco Tontos 13321 Madison Ave. Lakewood, 216-221-4479. Taco Tontos may have been imported from Kent, but Lakewood residents have adopted it as one of their own. And what’s not to love? Here folks settle in for fresh-made tacos, burritos, tostadas and taco salads, paired with kicking margaritas and a hip, chill vibe. Come for fish taco Fridays and stay for dessert! $-$$

Italian / Pizza

Angelo’s Pizza 13715 Madison Ave., Lakewood, 216-221-0440. There are pizzas. And then there are Angelo’s pizzas: plump, fragrant works of art, from the thick provolone topping all the way down to the rich, yeasty crust. The chicken club is good, the veggie is great and the creamy, cheesy seafood pizza, topped with lobster cream, shrimp, crabmeat and fresh spinach, is the stuff of which our dreams are made. Salads, sandwiches, wings, a few pasta platters and a worthwhile beer list round out the menu at this good-looking spot. $$

Bruno’s Ristorante 2644 W. 41st St., 216-961-7087. Stepping into this cozy neighborhood ristorante – with its wooden bar, linoleum floors, and menu of pizza, pasta, and assorted parmigianas, cacciatores, and marsalas – is like traveling back in time to the days when Italian restaurateurs baked their own breads, made their own pastas, and served it all in charming, intimate spaces. Almost everything on the “full-meal deal” menu is delish. But when it comes to fried calamari and baked lasagna, Bruno’s scores among the very best. $$$

Carrie Cerino’s Ristorante 8922 Ridge Rd., N. Royalton, 440-237-3434. This venerable Italian restaurant features hearty Northern Italian fare, with an expansive menu of made-from-scratch pastas, sauces, breads, and desserts. $$$

Crostatas 558 Bishop Rd., Highland Hts., 440-449-7800. Aficionados of authentic Neapolitan-style pizza have been claiming this pizzeria serves the best pie in town. That is not a surprise considering that the pizzaioli uses time-tested ingredients, techniques, and equipment, including a 950-degree wood-burning oven. The menu is largely confined to pizza, but does include starters, salads, and desserts. $$

D’Agnese’s 1100 W. Royalton Rd. 440-237-7372. A longtime neighborhood favorite, D’Agnese’s serves up authentic and comforting Italian with an emphasis on veal, chicken, seafood and pasta. And at its current new(ish) location after 20 years in business, it continues to dazzle for all occasions, be it a casual dinner or date or a festive celebration. $$

D.C. Pasta Co. 12214 Pearl Rd., Strongsville, 440-238-8500. Chef Dante Boccuzzi’s third Cleveland restaurant, D.C. makes high-quality, house-made pastas fun and affordable. Sold by portion size – taste, appetizer, or main – the various combinations can be mixed and matched to create a wide-ranging feast. The rest of the menu is equally accessible, with sections for cured meats, Italian cheeses, marinated veggies, meatballs, entrées – even olives. Top it all off with 25 bottles of Italian wine priced south of $25 and you have the makings of an affordable Italian banquet. $$-$$$

Dewey’s Pizza 2194 Lee Rd., Cleveland Hts., 216-321-7355. A fine choice for families, this bright, contemporary pizza parlor offers freshly made pies, wholesome salads and a concise selection of beer and wine, including eight microbrews on draft. Friendly staffers take small fry in stride, and while Mom and Dad unwind, the kiddies can safely watch the chefs at work from behind a glass partition. $$

Eddie’s Pizzeria Cerino 7305 Broadview Rd., Seven Hills, 216-236-6007. Too often, Italian joints go heavy on the comfort and light on the quality. Not so here where owner Eddie Cerino approaches traditional Italian food less like a grandmother and more like a chef. And thanks to half orders of salad and pasta, diners have control over portion size and price. The same goes for Cerino’s Lakewood outpost, which is cozy, busy, and slings a perfect menu of Italian favorites that don’t skimp on quality. $$–$$$

Ferrara’s 5750 Mayfield Rd. 440-442-3700. From deli cuts to prepared foods and all your needs via Italy, Ferrara’s is your hometown authentic grocer. Who can resist meats and cheeses, mozzarella and provolone and pepperoni and prosciutto? Exactly nobody, that’s who. Stop by for the best of the rest too, from sauces to pasta, party trays to olive oils and bakery and lunch. $-$$

Flour 34205 Chagrin Blvd., Moreland Hills, 216-464-3700. After 25 years in Little Italy, Paul Minnillo has moved to the suburbs with this contemporary restaurant serving modern regional Italian cuisine. The far-ranging menu includes small-plate-style antipasti and creative greens, as well as silken pastas and hearty entrées. A wood-fired pizza oven turns out killer Neapolitan-style pies. A deep Italian wine list and a patio round out this East Side gem. $$$

Mama Santa’s 12305 Mayfield Rd., 216-421-2159. Every college campus needs a nearby spot like Mama Santa’s, with its retro vibe, cheap wine, and stunningly inexpensive Italian eats. Thin, greaseless, crisp-crusted pizza is the specialty of the casa; when you and the gang can score a 15-incher for less than 10 bucks, who cares if there’s a wait for a table? $-$$

Marotta’s 2289 Lee Rd., Cleveland Hts., 216-932-9264. We’ve seen hallways bigger than this tiny Italian restaurant, but the intimate ambiance and robust food are ample compensation for the lack of elbow room. The small menu has the usual pasta, chicken, and veal dishes, all well-prepared and flavorful. And the hand-tossed, stone-baked pizzas are notable for their crisp, almost wafer-thin crusts. Impressive all-Italian wine list. $$$

Maxi’s 12113 Mayfield Rd. 216-421-1500. Like an old friend, Maxi’s is always there when you need her. For 15 years, this romantic Little Italy gem has been keeping neighbors and visitors happy the easy way: by dishing up consistently delicious plates of soul satisfying Italian foods, namely pastas, pizza and veal-based entrees. Dim, slim and sexy, Maxi’s is always the right choice for date night. $$-$$$

Osteria di Valerio & Al 408 W. St. Clair Ave., 216-685-9490. The anonymous phrasemaker who said “Good things come in small packages” surely didn’t have this tiny Italian restaurant in mind, but he could have: The Warehouse District’s smallest upscale dining room more than compensates with big quotas of flavor and style. $$$

Porcelli’s Bistro 1852 E. 6th St., 216-574-2270. A popular lunch stop for downtown’s white-collar crew, Porcelli’s serves a simple but sophisticated menu of salads, sandwiches, and pastas, including gnocchi with pesto cream and penne with chicken, spinach, and walnuts. Prices are reasonable, particularly by downtown standards, and speedy service will get you back to the office before Scrooge even knows you’ve ducked out. $$

Primo Vino 12511 Mayfield Rd., 216-229-3334. Don’t let the subterranean location fool you: This Little Italy mainstay, settled at the bottom of a long flight of stairs, is as warm and welcoming as nonna’s kitchen, with a neighborly vibe and the wallet-friendly prices to match. Offerings are mostly traditional Italian – pastas, polenta, eggplant parmesan – with a few stylish twists. And to drink, check out the short but interesting list of wines-by-the-glass. $$-$$$

Ristorante Stella Mia 28751 Center Ridge Rd., Westlake, 440-250-2143. We’re blessed in Northeast Ohio with a cornucopia of beloved neighborhood Italian gems, but this Westlake newcomer has quickly risen to the top of its local bracket by upping every aspect of the ristorante game. Setting, food and service here combine to form the kind of lasting memories that used to be commonplace. Classics like stuffed peppers, mussels in wine sauce, eggplant parmesan, spaghetti with meatballs, veal satimbocca and osso bucco all hit the table with an impressive splash. $$

‘Stino da Napoli 19070 Old Detroit Rd., Rocky River, 440-331-3944. “Delicate,” “precise,” and “beautifully balanced” are just a few of the terms that spring to mind when we recall the preparations at this little gem of an Italian restaurant. While nearly every dish is as close to perfection as any kitchen is likely to come, the ephemeral gnocchi, the fork-tender veal, and the homemade desserts are so exactly right, they nearly make us weep. $$$

Trentina  1902 Ford Dr., 216-421-2900. James Beard-nominated chef Jonathon Sawyer’s new Italian restaurant brings sparkling life back to the old Sergio’s space in University Circle. The attractive 35-seat restaurant is an ideal setting for the northern Italian-inspired foods that Sawyer and chef Matt Danko are creating. Diners can look forward to creative cocktails, fresh pastas, adventurous tasting menus, and al fresco dining on the restaurant’s picturesque front patio. $$$$

Valerio’s 12405 Mayfield Rd., 216-421-8049. Unless your mama is from Naples, we’ll wager that the meals you serve aren’t nearly half as good as Valerio’s rustic, unpretentious food. And we doubt that you employ a staff of tall, slender waiters, who roam the room like dashing exclamation points. All-Italian wine list. $$$

Vero Bistro 12421 Cedar Rd., Cleveland Heights, 216-229-8383. Boasting one of the very few wood-burning ovens in town, Vero turns out some of the most authentic Neapolitan-style pizza around. Owner Marc-Aurele Buholzer inherited the oven – and the space – from the previous tenant, La Gelateria. The gelato is the same, but the pizza is much improved. An airy, chewy edge blistered with char gives way to a thin, crisp inner crust supporting a few choice ingredients. These pies are meant to be enjoyed fresh from the oven. $$

European / Mediterranean

Adega 2017 E 9th St., 216-239-1200. Adega, the feature restaurant at The 9, the high-end hotel and residence complex in the former Ameritrust buildings, is as grand and impressive as one might expect given the setting. The focus here is on modern Mediterranean cuisines, plucking flavor profiles from Greece, Italy, Spain and other Mediterranean cuisines. Everything is prepared from scratch under the watchful eye of chef Eddie Tancredi. $$$-$$$$

Americano at Bratenahl Place Club 1 Bratenahl Pl., Bratenahl, 216-541-3900. The dining room at this posh twin-condo complex has been the site of numerous short-lived restaurants. But if any endeavor has reason to survive it is Americano, an impressive Euro-American bistro. An ambitious kitchen crafts its own charcuterie, pickles, condiments and breads. The at-times-brilliant bistro fare straddles the line between classic French and seasonal American, with prices thankfully in line with the latter. Enjoy mussels, crab cakes, steak frites, beef Bourguignon and seared scallops. Full bar and wine list. $$$

Der Braumeister 13046 Lorain Ave. 216-671-6220. For Germans and non-Germans alike, Cleveland’s Der Braumeister German Bier Haus is one of the coolest joints around and one of the longest-operating joints slinging German comfort food. And beyond the schnitzel, which is amazing, they also have killer wings. Served whole, we recommend the wings tossed in the house-made Düsseldorf mustard. Don’t forget the sauerkraut balls, or the strudels, or the potato pancakes or… Well, just order it all. $$

Felice Urban Café 12502 Larchmere Blvd., 216-791-0918. If you think Fat Cats is cool, you’ll definitely love Felice. This cozy eatery is tucked inside a restored Craftsman-style home on the Shaker-Cleveland border. Awaiting diners is unfussy and affordable Mediterranean fare, much of it with a decidedly Spanish flair. There’s chorizo-spiked mussels, lamb sliders, skirt steak chimichurri and garlicky seafood stew. Full bar, wine and beer. Outdoor patio. $$

Hofbräuhaus Cleveland 1550 Chester Ave., 216-621-2337. Affiliated with the original in Munich, Germany, this $8-million, 20,000-square-foot, 1,700-seat restaurant and brewery opened in Playhouse Square. The destination attraction features world-famous Hofbrau beer, which is brewed on premises using the original recipes, plus German comfort foods like potato pancakes, weisswurst, schnitzel and braised pork shank. Expect a party atmosphere every night of the week. $$

Le Petit Triangle Café 1881 Fulton Rd., 216-281-1881. A little cramped, occasionally noisy, and quite possibly the city’s smallest restaurant, this tiny French bistro still manages to turn out superlative crepes, earthy pâtés, and one of the best Croque Monsieur sandwiches this side of the Seine. $$

Luxe Kitchen & Lounge 6605 Detroit Ave., 216-920-0600. This welcoming bistro brings approachable, affordable, and delicious Mediterranean-inspired food to the Detroit-Shoreway neighborhood. Shabby-chic with a farmhouse twist, the restaurant features mix-and-match plates, kitchen-towel napkins, and repurposed fixtures. With a host of small plates, shared plates, pastas, pizzas, and prix fixe dinners, the menu has options for every mood and budget. $$$

Mallorca 1390 W. 9th St., 216-687-9494. Mallorca, with its large portions of classic Spanish dishes and formal, friendly service, has developed a devoted following. Best bets include paella Valenciana – a generous portion of shrimp, scallops, clams, mussels, half-lobster tail, chicken, and chorizo sausage in a saffron-flavored seafood broth. $$$-$$$$

Sans Souci 24 Public Square, 216-902-4095. Under the guidance of well-seasoned chef Brett Montgomery, this 20-year-old restaurant in the downtown Renaissance Hotel seems reinvigorated. Much of that comes from Montgomery’s decision to highlight local products on his Med-American menu, an urge that extends from precisely prepared dinner entries like Lake Erie walleye and Ohio City Pasta pierogi to the cheeses, sausages, and even the maple syrup on the groaning breakfast buffet. $$$-$$$$

Santorini Taverna 1382 W. 9th St. Tommy Karakostas is on a roll. He opened his popular Lakewood eatery Greek Village Grille – voted Best Greek Restaurant by Scene readers – in 2009. He followed that up with a new Greek Village in Broadview Heights in 2013. Soon he will open his new spot on W. 9th. At lunch, Santorini will offer the same type of quick, affordable pita sandwiches that Lakewood is known and adored for. Dinner will feature a more ambitious menu comprised of Greek-style “meze,” or small plates, as well as shared platters and both traditional and contemporary Greek entrees. $-$$

Sokolowski’s University Inn 1201 University Rd. 216-771-9236. As residents of the chilly Midwest, we instinctively turn to full-flavored, rib-sticking, carb-loaded comfort foods to survive the season. And there’s no better source than Sokolowski’s University Inn. The homestyle cooking at this Tremont institution strikes a deep chord with Clevelanders, but it’s also Stop No. 1 for visitors, who travel here to experience a true taste of our Eastern European roots. Working down the cafeteria line, guests load their trays with pierogies, Salisbury steak, stuffed cabbage and chicken paprikash. The suckers hit the salad bar. Everything is made from scratch and tastes that way. Bring on the long winter’s nap. $$

Sterle’s Country House 1401 East 55th St., 216-881-4181. For almost 50 years, this Central European polka palace has been dishing out family-style fare at wallet-friendly prices. The all-inclusive dinners include chicken soup, salad, bread and butter, Wiener schnitzel, roast pork, smoked kielbasa, sauerkraut, potatoes, veggies, coffee and dessert. Or, order from the menu’s listing of numerous veal, pork and chicken dishes. Live music and dancing on Friday and Saturday nights. $$-$$$

Tartine Bistro 19110 Old Detroit Rd., Rocky River, 440-331-0800. We hesitate to call this sweet little spot a French bistro, if only to avoid conjuring images of gilded mirrors and framed absinthe prints. Tartine is a warm neighborhood tavern that happens to serve French-inspired fare, gallons of red wine, and armfuls of good cheer. Plus, there’s really good pizza! A small kitchen puts out not only small plates, but also sandwiches (tartines), right-sized entrées, and classic desserts. $$

Taste Food & Wine 2317 Lee Rd., Cleveland Hts., 216-932-9100. This polished Mediterranean bistro is a welcome addition to a street known more for its pubs than posh eateries. An easygoing vibe belies the level of talent in the kitchen and prowess on the plate. Elegantly composed dishes sing with clear flavor, purpose and direction. In the chef’s hands, items like seared scallops and rack of lamb are at once familiar and original. Consider the prix fixe menu, which includes an appetizer, entrée, dessert and two glasses of wine for $45. $$$

Asian / Indian / Middle Eastern

Aladdin’s Eatery 14536 Detroit Rd., Lakewood, 216-521-4005. Aladdin’s serves a variety of simply prepared, Middle Eastern-inspired foods, including homemade soups, salads, pita wraps, steamed veggie plates, and pita “pizzas.” Choices for vegetarians abound, and freshly squeezed juices, fruit smoothies, and a small selection of beers and wines are available. $$

Benihana 23611 Chagrin Blvd. 216-464-7575 Sure, hibachi might be your go-to for birthday celebrations or date night, but Benihana and the onion volcano and juicy meats cooked right in front of you is irresistible at any time, if you think about it. Whether you fancy chicken, shrimp or steak (or all of them, right?) straight from the hibachi grill or sushi, whether you’re hunkered down for a proper dinner or looking for a fast lunch, the food is what you expect it to be and the spectacle makes it all the better. $$

Café Tandoor 2096 S. Taylor Rd., Cleveland Hts., 216-371-8500. One of the region’s first Indian restaurants, Café Tandoor is notable for its large, well-organized menu and its complex blends of flavors. Don’t miss the remarkably fresh and sweet-tasting navaratana curry or the profoundly flavored mango chutney. $$-$$$

Ginko 2247 Professor Ave., 216-274-1202. Having worked at famed Nobu, chef Dante Boccuzzi had lofty aspirations when creating Ginko, his subterranean sushi restaurant that sits below the chef’s eponymous Dante. As a result, Ginko is a paean to fish, most of it raw, some of it rolled, all of it exceptional. Diners seated at one of the two booths can also enjoy shabu shabu, Japanese-style fondue. Beer, wine, and sake are available. $$$-$$$$

Ginza Sushi & Steak House 1105 Carnegie Ave., 216-589-8503. One of the city’s first sushi houses, Ginza remains a mostly hidden treasure, catering to a loyal crowd of white-collar regulars, who stop by to enjoy the serene decor, the low-key vibe, and the big menu of sushi, sashimi, and hibachi faves. $$-$$$

Ha-Ahn 3030 Superior Ave., 216-664-1152. Settled inside the Golden Plaza, this modest bistro offers a full lineup of Korean specialties, including a version of bibimbap that is out of this world. $-$$

India Garden 18405 Detroit Ave., Lakewood, 216-221-0676. Small, friendly, and featuring the usual lineup of Northern Indian curries, biryanis, and tandoori preparations, this nicely appointed eatery has plenty to offer vegetarians and carnivores alike. And for those seeking the unusual, a handful of Indo-Chinese dishes (check out the “Manchurian-style” stir-fried cauliflower) adds a global twist. Daily lunch buffet. $$$

Indian Flame 11623 Euclid Ave., 216-791-5555. While small and cramped, the Flame is reliably consistent at delivering delicious and reasonably priced Indian fare. The sizable menu contains both dependable favorites and opportunities for adventure, like the matchless goat curry. A thriving lunch buffet attracts Indian food fans like moths to a, well, flame. $$

Li Wah 2999 Payne Ave., 216-589-9552. Located in the Asian Plaza – a three-floor complex of professional offices, gift shops, herb stores, and Asian food markets – Li Wah offers an assortment of traditional dim sum as well as a large menu of fresh seafood and authentic Hong Kong-style cuisine. Dim sum is served from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. $$

Map of Thailand 3710 Payne Ave., 216-361-2220. Asiatown’s only restaurant dedicated solely to Thai food, Map is making friends fast. While the menu may seem familiar, the precisely executed dishes exiting the kitchen are no run-of-the-mill fare. Don’t miss the beef jerky starter, larb salad, country-style pad Thai, and duck in green curry. $$

Miega Korean BBQ 3820 Superior Rd., 216-432-9200. Located on the second floor of Asian Town Center, this Korean restaurant is bright, modern, and roomy. Meals begin with cups of nutty barley tea and a huge spread of panchan: pungent side dishes that range from fiery kimchi to steamed broccoli. Miega prepares its flavorful kalbi and bulgogi atop a tabletop hot plate. The galbi dolsot bibimbap – rice, beef, veggies, and a fried egg served in a sizzling earthenware bowl – is one of the best in the city. $$-$$$

Minh Anh 5428 Detroit Ave., 216-961-9671. Small, casual and friendly, this family-owned Vietnamese restaurant serves cinnamon-scented pho, colossal crêpes and an assortment of tasty noodle bowls, along with plenty of vegetarian options. $$

Nate’s Deli and Restaurant 1923 W. 25th St., 216-696-7529. When it comes to freshly made Middle Eastern foods, Nate’s is great. Especially beloved for its thick, smooth hummus with a texture like whipped butter, Nate’s also makes smoky baba ghannouj, crisp fried kibbeh, and tender, plump meat or spinach pies. If your tastes run to more traditional deli fare, try a king-sized corned-beef or pastrami sandwich. Service is casual and friendly, and the place has the feel of a neighborhood cornerstone. $-$$

Ninja City 11311 Euclid Ave., 216-860-0510. High-spirited and fun, Ninja City has quickly wheedled its way into the good graces of time-strapped, budget-crunched diners in University Circle thanks to a streamlined system that employs a checklist-style menut of approachable pan-Asian items that tops out at $8.95. Owner Bac Nguyen distills down the most popular items and recipes from Bac Asian Bistro in Tremont into a simplified operation that focuses on efficiency, value and fun. $$

Noodlecat 234 Euclid Ave., 216-589-0007. Fun and funky, downtown’s only Japanese-style ramen house offers an array of noodle bowls ranging from the traditional to the contemporary. Creative sides and add-ons allow slurpers to customize their bowls in almost endless ways, while a tight selection of cold sake, beer, wine, and creative cocktails adds to the merriment. $$$

#1 Pho 3120 Superior Ave., 216-781-1176. Like a golden yolk buried in the center of a moon cake, the tastefully decorated #1 Pho is a bright spot in the sometimes-gritty neighborhood around East 31st and Superior. Among the many tasty Vietnamese dishes on the well-organized menu, our fave is pho – big bowls of traditional noodle soup served with basil, lime, hoisin and other aromatic go-withs. But items such as chicken-cabbage salad and spicy squid are also fragrant, subtle and full of nuance. Plenty of vegetarian options. $$

Pearl of the Orient 19300 Detroit Rd. 440-333-9902. With a handsome lounge, a shady porch, and a pan-Asian menu that includes Chinese, Vietnamese, and Thai standards, as well as sushi and even some gently handled fusion fare, the Pearl is a gem for casual dining. Small but thoughtful wine list. $$

Phnom Penh 1929 W. 25th St., 216-357-2951. A second outpost for the West Side’s favorite Cambodian restaurant, this location offers the same giant, slightly perplexing menu as the original, along with convenient parking and urbane decor. $$

SaSa Matsu 13120 Shaker Square, 216-767-1111. Like a Japanese take on tapas, this izakaya-style restaurant on Shaker Square combines an enticing menu of creative, contemporary small plates and sushi with a big collection of cocktails, sake, and imported beer. Don’t miss the Sasa fries, an Asian-accented riff on twice-fried frites that just may be the most addictive bar nosh in town. $$$

Shinto 17070 Pearl Rd. 440-878-3868. This Japanese steakhouse and sushi bar opened down in Strongsville years ago and has kept momentum strong. Whether it’s for half-price sushi on Tuesday nights or any of the other specials during the week, there isn’t a bad day to make the trip for an entertaining and delicious hibachi experience or a sushi feast beyond compare. $-$$

Shuhei 23360 Chagrin Blvd., Beachwood, 216-464-1720. An excellent variety of maki and nigiri sushi is the star of the show here – ordered à la carte or in combinations as either appetizers or entrées. Beyond sushi, diners can also select items from a large menu of steaks, seafood, poultry, noodle, and vegetarian dishes. Charming servers in traditional kimonos add a decorative touch. $$$

Siam Café 3951 St. Clair Ave., 216-361-2323. Neat, tidy, and friendly, this multicultural restaurant in the heart of Asia Town serves an enormous variety of authentic Asian eats, most with an emphasis on seafood. Ingredients are fresh, flavors are nuanced and masterfully balanced, and prices are notable values, particularly during the bustling lunch hours. $$-$$$

Taza 28601 Chagrin Blvd., Woodmere, 216-464-4000. A sort of grown-up version of the health-conscious, vegetarian-friendly Aladdin’s Eateries, Taza is all that – and a full bar too. Despite the handsome decor and upscale appointments, the casual attitude and big menu of Lebanese standards will strike a familiar note with Aladdin’s fans. Other upgrades include freshly baked pita, kebabs taken straight off the charcoal grill, and a big assortment of traditional Middle Eastern meze, just right for sharing around the table. $$$

Tea House Noodles 1900 E. 6th St., 216-623-9131. A welcome alternative to fast-food lunches, this funky downtown noodle house and juice bar combines fresh flavors and speedy counter service with a casual college-town vibe, for a dining “experience” as unique as it is inexpensive. That’s probably why the lines are sometimes out the door. Go, and feel good. $-$$

Tomo Sushi Bar and Hibachi Restaurant and Lounge 1293 W. 9th St. 216-696-4444. Four floors and over 100 tables of bursting Asian flavors await you in the Warehouse District. From standard fare like tempura and fried rice to a seemingly endless hibachi menu list (lamb, swordfish, lobster and snapper are four options we bet you won’t find anywhere else), plus an extensive offering of fresh and delicious sushi, Tomo has something for everyone and a dynamic and hip atmosphere to boot. $$-$$$

Ty Fun Thai Bistro 815 Jefferson Ave., 216-664-1000. From the intricately folded napkins to the carved carrot roses, this intimate Thai restaurant in Tremont serves up the eye candy as well as a solid assortment of well-prepared standards – pad Thai, chicken satay, and spicy green curry. $$$

Udupi Café 6339 Olde York Rd., Parma Hts., 440-743-7154. A favorite of the Indian community, but still mostly unknown to the rest of us, this spacious, well-maintained vegetarian restaurant specializes in authentic south Indian cuisine, which tends to be spicier but less heavy than its better-known northern Indian counterpart. Crowd-pleasers include sheer stuffed crêpes (dosai), spicy lentil soup (sambar), and batura, a puffy fried bread about the size of a watermelon. Features a daily lunch buffet. $$

Umami Asian Kitchen 42 North Main St., Chagrin Falls, 440-247-8600. What this jewel box of a bistro lacks in size, it more than makes up for in style, thanks to an umami-filled contemporary Asian menu. There are nods to Chinese, Thai and Japanese cuisine, with stellar ingredients buoyed by complementary flavors and spices. Sushi and seafood shine, as do heartier meats like pork belly and duck. Vegetarians can even dine well on crispy tofu and pad Thai. $$$

Steaks / Seafood

Austin’s Smokin’ Steak House 6535 Wilson Mills Rd., Mayfield, 440-442-4340. Wild, woodsy aromas suffuse this friendly little restaurant, where hickory smoking, slow cooking, and mesquite grilling are the order of the day. Nearly everything, from the thick, sweet, and peppery BBQ sauce to the delicate biscuits in the strawberry shortcake, is made fresh and in-house. And for a real taste of the ol’ West, be sure to try the zesty Smokin’ Beans. $$$

Cabin Club Steakhouse 30651 Detroit Rd., Westlake, 440-899-7111. Big, juicy steaks, an annotated wine list, and friendly waitresses make this the place for expense-account types to unwind after work or to entertain on the weekends. Excellent choices include the Cabin Club strip steak, the center-cut rib-eye, a behemoth porterhouse, and a buttery filet mignon. A few seafood and poultry items are also available. $$$-$$$$

Delmonico’s Steakhouse 6001 Quarry Ln., Independence, 216-573-1991. Cleveland’s own Hospitality Restaurants scores again with this Italian-accented steakhouse, where the menu includes everything from rib, sirloin, and strip steaks to salmon, spicy veal meatballs, and Boursin-stuffed Sicilian peppers. An extensive wine list and professional service are additional reasons to visit. $$$

Hyde Park Prime Steakhouse 123 W. Prospect Ave., 216-344-2444. This Tower City location is elegant without being stuffy, and the menu is a meat-eater’s delight, with a wide selection of steaks and chops. Service is attentive and efficient. The restaurant maintains an impressive wine cellar. $$$$

Salmon Dave’s 19015 Old Lake Rd., Rocky River, 440-331-2739. This smart seafood restaurant has built an enviable rep on its concise menu of straightforward dishes. These days, that includes Asian-themed items like tiger shrimp yakitori, pulled-pork-filled steamed buns, and ramen noodle bowls with braised pork belly. Come Mardi Gras season, Salmon Dave’s is one of the best places to be. Full bar, extensive wine list. $$$-$$$$

Strip, a Steak House 36840 Detroit Rd., Avon, 440-934-9900. Housed in a 160-year-old Pennsylvania Dutch barn, this steak house is anything but old-fashioned. Owner Ron Larson spiffed up the interior in ways that will pleasantly surprise diners expecting doilies and drapes. The two-story barn features a first-floor lounge with open kitchen and a spacious loft dining room. First-rate steaks and chops share the menu with less conventional steakhouse fare, like smoked chicken, pasta Bolognese and horseradish-crusted grouper. $$$$

Sussex Seafood & Grille 29280 Euclid Ave., Wickliffe, 440-943-2002. Close your eyes, and you can almost hear the roar of the surf from your seat inside this Florida-style seafood house, an East Side institution, where the crabcakes are sweet and crunchy, and the puffy-battered scrod and scallops seem lighter than an Atlantic breeze. Beer and wine; small selection of liquor. $$$

Urban Farmer 777 St. Clair Ave., 216-771-7707. An offshoot of the uber-popular Portland restaurant of the same name, Urban Farmer is an attractive farm-to-table steakhouse located in the freshly minted Westin Downtown hotel. The meat-centric eatery boasts an ambitious butchery and charcuterie program, a huge selection of steaks and chops, over-the-top rich sides, and one of the best bread services in the city. $$$-$$$$

Pubs / Wine / Martini Bars

ABC Tavern 1872 W. 25th St., 216-861-3857. A classic Cleveland “old-man” bar with a totally modern vibe, this well-run tavern offers a full bar and plenty of tasty noshes, ranging from roasted red pepper hummus to a humongous burger. Nightly happy hours help make this a popular destination. $$

Academy Tavern 12800 Larchmere Blvd., 216-229-1171. Like a well-worn couch, this vintage corner tavern may show its age, but its comfort is undeniable. For proof, just look at the diverse clientele, chowing down on big portions of hearty, inexpensive food. While the burgers are always a good bet, the eclectic offerings include everything from ham & eggs to veal Parmesan, and chicken paprikash to black-eyed peas. $$

The Brew Kettle Taproom & Smokehouse 8377 Pearl Rd., Strongsville, 440-239-8788. Casual, inexpensive, and family-friendly, this little brewpub dishes up a big assortment of smoked and barbecued meats, along with homemade soups, salads, sandwiches, and entrées. Pulled pork is a particular fave – for a change of pace, try it in the barbecued spaghetti! Rotating selection of 24 beers on draft. $$

Brothers Lounge 11609 Detroit Ave. 216-226-2767 A million-dollar renovation has transformed a historic but derelict space into a sharp-dressed neighborhood entertainment complex. In addition to the large music hall, this sprawling den features a cozy pub, ritzy wine bar, and alfresco patio, each with its own mood. Appetizers are beer-friendly beauties, but the best deals are the mid-priced entrées like grilled hanger steak and thick-cut pork chops. Ambitious wine list. And great live music. $-$$

Buckeye Beer Engine 15315 Madison Ave., Lakewood, 216-226-2337. The beer’s the thing at this hip-yet-homey Lakewood pub – more than two dozen choices on draft, including what owner Garin Wright calls “breakouts, hot stuff, and things you’ve never seen before in your life.” Still, the food is keeping up , with a satisfying assortment of burgers (including some meat-free variations) as well as salads, soups, and assorted noshes. $$

Burntwood Tavern 504 E. Washington St., Chagrin Falls, 440-318-1560. A tried-and-true combo of handsome surroundings and familiar fare makes this snug Chagrin Falls tavern a popular neighborhood spot. $$-$$$

Butcher and the Brewer 2043 East Fourth St., 216-331-0805. Tremont Taphouse principals Jason Workman, Chris Lieb and Jeff Leonard have opened a rambunctious bar, restaurant and brewery in the heart of downtown. The informal venue features communal tables for guests to grab and graze on bar snacks, charcuterie and cheese plates, sandwiches and entrees. Brewmaster Eric Anderson, working on a highly visible 10-barrel system, is turning out great beers to go with the grub. $$-$$$

Deagan’s Kitchen + Bar 14810 Detroit Ave., Lakewood, 216-767-5775. “Gastropubs” are where ambitious cuisine collides with informality and kick-ass beer. To see what one looks, feels, and tastes like, head to Deagan’s in the heart of Lakewood. It’s a food-lover’s pub, where the chef-driven fare is good enough to earn a spot at a so-called fancy restaurant. $$

The Fairmount 2448 Fairmount Blvd., 216-229-9463. It’s been three years since Jake Orosz took over ownership of The Fairmount, formerly Fairmount Martini & Wine Bar, and since then he’s been making incremental improvements to the beer, wine, craft cocktails, food and setting. An expansion into an adjacent space provided much-needed room for a new kitchen and hood system, an indoor garden delivers a steady supply of fresh herbs, and the secret-garden back patio seems to get prettier by the year. Pulled pork tacos, Tom’s Foolery Applejack-glazed turkey ribs, and banh mi sandwiches now join the already popular flatbreads, bruschetta and sandwiches. $$

Fat Head’s Brewery & Saloon 24581 Lorain Rd., N. Olmsted, 440-801-1001. Pittsburgh beer lovers will no doubt know (and love) the Fat Head’s brand. The super-popular watering hole has been a South Side fixture going on two decades. Award-winning local brewer Matt Cole has grafted a superb brewery onto that famous brand, offering fresh-made suds to go along with the mammoth Headwich sandwiches. The pub-grub menu also stocks bar munchies, salads, pizzas and barbecue. Patio. $$

Flannery’s Pub 323 Prospect Ave., 216-781-7782. Flannery’s rightly has earned a reputation as one of the best places to party before and after Downtown events. Abundant, efficient and welcoming, the staff knows how to handle a crowd. But when it comes to food, this well-oiled machine often sacrifices quality for speed. Keep your expectations in check and a beer in your hand and the night should end on a high note. During summer, the generous front patio here is party central. $$

Grillers Pub 5455 State Rd. 216-741-7200 This cozy joint in Parma is one of the best options in Cleveland’s neighbor to the south for a wide range of quality local and national craft brews. Pair that with scrumptious bar food made with fresh ingredients – the wings and mac n’ cheese are two that stand out to us, as well as the outstanding burgers – and an active dart community, and you have the recipe for a great local tavern. $

The Harp 4408 Detroit Ave., 216-939-0200. The warm decor here sets the mood for an inclusive menu of Irish and American fare, ranging from boxty and shepherd’s pie to lobster pierogi. Throw in a good selection of Irish brews and spirits, along with live traditional music, and you’ve got yourself one top-notch pub. $$$

Jammy Buggars 15625 Detroit Ave., Lakewood, 216-767-5922. While most of his Lakewood neighbors aim high or low, Jim Sprenger steers for the middle, serving good-quality grub at rational prices in a comfortable setting. Family-friendly comfort food like chicken paprikash, fish and chips, and amazing grass-fed-beef burgers share the menu with creative sandwiches and bacon-and-cheese-topped fries. Toss in quality craft brews and attentive service, and you are indeed eatin’ good in the neighborhood. $$

The Little Bar and Grille 614 Frankfort Ave., 216-861-2166. Yup, it’s a little bar all right: dim and a tad dingy. But that said, it’s worth seeking out for its first-rate burgers, juicy ribs, freshly cut French fries, and a daily “comfort food” special like chicken Parmesan over penne pasta. $$

Market 1137 Linda St., Rocky River, 440-799-4292. Market partners John Owen and Dave Rudiger have transformed a former municipal impound lot into an upscale sports bar. To go with the 100 beers and the requisite banks of flat screens, Market offers shareable starters, big salads, great sandwiches, and plenty of steaks, pastas, and seafood. A heated patio extends outdoor dining well into fall. $$$

Market Garden Brewery 1947 West 25th St., 216-621-4000. This massive Ohio City brewpub seats well over 300 guests in multiple dining rooms, at various bars, and in a gem-like beer garden. Upscale pub grub joins an ever-evolving list of world-class suds, cooked up by an award-winning brewmaster. Don’t miss the house chips, meat boards, Cubano, and ridiculously delicious southern fried chicken. $$$

Nighttown 12387 Cedar Rd., Cleveland Hts., 216-795-0550. This atmospheric pub is as cozy and friendly as can be, with food that ranges from bangers and mash (juicy grilled sausage with mashed potatoes and cabbage) to thick slabs of certified Angus beef. The nightly entertainment by local musicians is supplemented with regularly scheduled special performances by nationally known jazz artists. $$$

The Old Angle Tavern 1848 W. 25th St., 216-861-5643. An exceptionally handsome, subtly Irish pub and dining room, the Old Angle meshes the comfort of a neighborhood bar with the dim, sexy ambiance of a club. There’s a small menu of well-prepared, casual eats, including burgers, falafel wraps, and of course, lamb stew. $$

Cantine Bar & Bottle 1100 W. Royalton Rd. 440-877-9399. Ross Valenti, owner of the popular Italian restaurant D’Agnese’s, was in search of the perfect location for his next concept. He had wanted to open a bar. And he found the perfect location – next to D’Agnese’s. Cantine Bar & Bottle is sleek and well-designed, and sports some 500 wine varieties and 250 beer options. The bottle shop also offers a healthy list of small plates, shareables and appetizers that you won’t find next door. $$

Paragon 21920 Lakeshore Blvd. Euclid, 216-731-9463. Like its sister restaurant the Standard, though not quite to the same level, Paragon is a neighborhood tavern that has higher ambitions than pubs peddling run-of-the-mill burgers and beer. This attractive corner wine bar offers a wide range of appealing small snacks, big platters of sausage and cheese, flatbreads perfect for sharing and pairing with wine, and, yes, burgers and sandwiches. Above average wine, beer and craft cocktail list also help raise the bar on this barroom bistro. $$

Rocky River Brewing Co. 21290 Center Ridge Rd., Rocky River, 440-895-2739. Established in 1998 as a premier brewpub and restaurant, Rocky River Brewing Company was founded on creating world-class handcrafted beers, an award-winning menu, and a great dining experience. Over the past 10 years, Rocky River Brewing Company has won more than a dozen national and international medals for its beers and numerous Silver Spoon awards for its food. $$

Rowley Inn 1104 Rowley Ave. 216-795-5345. For the last 60 years, the Rowley has been tucked away in the South Side (yeah, Tremont, but folks by the Rowley still call it the South Side), serving bargain booze and good atmosphere from 5:30 a.m. every morning until 2:30 a.m. Most folks know it now as the neighbor of the Christmas Story house. New owner Matt Peterson hasn’t changed much about the place at all, wanting to keep it a blue-collar hangout. But he has added some dynamite grub, including a bacon-wrapped dog and the Ohio burger ($5.50), which are both way better than you’d expect from a corner tavern. $-$$

Stone Mad Pub 1306 W. 65th St., 216-281-6500. Luxe flourishes turn up around every bend in this beautiful pub, from the hand-laid cobblestone parking lot to the hand-rubbed walnut woodwork. In contrast, the menu is as straightforward as it comes: Burgers, meatloaf, pasta and steak, served alongside the indoor bocce court. 21 and over only. $$

Tremont Tap House 2572 Scranton Rd., 216-298-4451. In the spirit of the region’s finest neighborhood taverns, the Tap House serves its neighbors well with boldly flavored, cleverly packaged and downright affordable American fare. Entrees like grilled hanger steak are proof that this is no pub-grub pub. Beer list (24 taps, 50+ bottles) is easily among city’s top five. Late-night food. Patio. $$

West End Tavern 18514 Detroit Ave., Lakewood, 216-521-7684. A venerable Lakewood tavern, complete with tin ceiling, wooden floors, and a well-worn bar, this neighborhood watering hole serves up booze, music, and more than a few made-from-scratch items – including burgers, pot roast, and the popular black-bean soup – during lunch, dinner, and weekend brunches. $$
Willoughby Brewing Company 4057 Erie St., Willoughby, 440-975-0202. Good, handcrafted beer and deftly prepared food, in a handsome, historic building. What more do you need to know? $$$

XYZ the Tavern 6419 Detroit Ave., 216-706-1104. Eclectic and affordable pub-style comfort food is the name of the game at XYZ, with great burgers, corned beef and chicken sandies filling the bill. Don’t miss the housemade chips and the killer chicken and waffles. More than 70 varieties of whiskey, scotch, bourbon, and rye and a smashing craft beer list make this lively American pub a true neighborhood gem. $$

Quick + Casual

Bogtrotters Doorstep 1848 West 25th St., 216-861-5515. The menu at this Ohio City sandwich shop is as crisp as an album’s track list. Just eight giant sammies: no soups, no sides, no desserts. All the meats are marinated, brined, and roasted in-house, and the drippings from each are reserved for use as gravy. Most of the sandwiches are modeled after classic American varieties and can be had drenched in jus or topped with chips for crunch. Best of all, the shop stays open until 3 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. Mainly carryout. $-$$

Cleveland Pickle 850 Euclid Ave., 216-575-1111. Quickly becoming downtowners’ favorite lunch stop, Josh Kabat’s casual sandwich shop features almost a dozen meaty, Cleveland-themed creations. The Terminal, for example, combines Black Forest ham, brie, mustard and apricot jam in a soft 8-inch sub bun. Dining is mainly carryout, but a few tables accommodate those who can’t wait to dig in. $-$$

The Coney Company 3330 Broadview Rd., 216-563-1894. A former Arby’s in Old Brooklyn has found new life as a dispensary of authentic Coney-style hot dogs. The locally owned shop began rolling out tasty Coneys, chili cheese fries, burgers and sandwiches in early 2014. The dogs are done right, with a griddle-cooked natural-casing weenie tucked into a soft, steamed white bun and topped with bean-free Greek style chili, yellow mustard and diced onion. There are a dozen different varieties of dog, including one topped with sauerkraut and Stadium Mustard and a Polish Boy with spicy polish sausage, coleslaw, fries and BBQ sauce. $

Presto Sandwiches 21984 Lorain Rd., Fairview Park, 440-356-6320. Tucked inside a former gas station, this charming little pit stop offers friendly service, retro-style decor, and a long list of out-of-the-ordinary soups and panini-style sandwiches. Current faves include the zesty Big Mensch, with hot pastrami, spicy coleslaw, and chipotle mayo; and the spicy tomato-blue cheese bisque, guaranteed to bring sweat to your brow and a smile to your lips. $$

Souper Market 2528 Lorain Ave., 216-737-SOUP. Amiable Matthew Moore is no Soup Nazi, although his wonderful “made-from-scratch” broths and bisques are certainly good enough to justify some arrogance. Jambalaya, bisque, and tomato-ginger soup are among his eight or so daily offerings, all packaged with a slice of artisanal bread to go; there’s also a small selection of salads and bottled beverages. No tables, although a narrow countertop can accommodate a few stand-up souls. $

Sweet Moses Soda Fountain 6800 Detroit Ave., 216-651-2202. Owner Jeffrey Moreau, a former ad man, set out to revive the great tradition of neighborhood ice-cream parlors – and boy did he succeed. Wall-to-wall with ice cream sundaes, chocolate candies, buttery fudge, crunchy caramel corn, and creamy root beer floats, Sweet Moses has instantly become Gordon Square’s go-to dessert destination $

Cafes, Coffee Shops + Bakeries

Bonbon Pastry & Cafe 2549 Lorain Ave., 216-458-9225. Award-winning pastry chef Courtney Bonning branches out into the savory world at this cute-as-a-cupcake café. Like a big-city patisserie, the café is intimate, elegant, and attractive enough to warrant a visit every day. In addition to the delectable sweets, the café dishes up breakfast, lunch, and weekend brunch. Quiche of the day, meat-filled Cornish pasties, and a killer Ohio beef burger are just a few of the offerings. $$

Great Lakes Baking Company 85 S. Main St., Hudson, 330-342-5878. Baker and proprietor John MacMillan left a corporate job to open this bakery. Now he’s up to his elbows in dough and couldn’t be happier. Crisp baguettes, dense loaves made with organic flours, tender sweet rolls, berry-filled muffins, and old-fashioned cookies come rolling out of John’s ovens. Enjoy them at an indoor table with a cup of coffee or tea; better yet, in summer, eat your snack on the breezy porch. $

Luna Bakery & Cafe 2482 Fairmount Blvd., Cleveland Hts., 216-231-8585. This wee and tidy space in the Cedar-Fairmount District is as crisp and cosmopolitan as a bespoke suit. More bakery than café, the shop specializes in sweets of every size, color and seductiveness. Rounding out the menu are made-to-order panini and French crepes, both sweet and savory. $$
Market Cafe and Wine Bar 1801 E. 9th St., 216-394-0122. This smartly appointed eatery is a contemporary cafeteria, offering breakfast and lunches; mid-day offerings include freshly made burgers, pizza, soups, salads, and panini. A project of environmentally attuned Bon Appetit Management Co., the cafe makes a fine addition to the weekday restaurant scene, while practicing a high degree of environmental awareness. $$

On the Rise 3471 Fairmount Blvd., Cleveland Hts., 216-320-9923. Part chemist, part craftsman, Adam Gidlow produces fine artisanal breads, bursting with honest wheat flavor and giving off clouds of nutty, toasty aromas. French baguettes are the real deal, with crisp but pliable crusts; rustic Italian loaves are an epiphany; and croissant-like sticky buns are a naughty dream. Mostly carryout, but two bistro tables accommodate those who can’t wait. $

Presti’s Café and Deli 12101 Mayfield Rd., 216-421-3060. Presti’s is bright, contemporary, and inviting, and, with two walls of tall windows, it offers some of the best people-watching in Little Italy. Fresh foods include bruschetta, stromboli, pepperoni bread, and frittatas, as well as sweets like cannoli, pignoli, biscotti, and strudel. After your meal, pick up a loaf of warm Italian bread to take home. $-$$

The Root Cafe 15118 Detroit Ave., Lakewood, 216-226-4401. Built largely from local, sustainable, and organic ingredients, the vegetarian menu at this coffeehouse is wholesome if not terribly thrilling. Fresh salads, house-made soups, straightforward veggie sandwiches, pizzas, and calzones fill the concise menu. Superbly brewed Phoenix coffee pairs beautifully with Root’s house-baked vegan and vegetarian pastries. $

The Stone Oven 2267 Lee Rd., Cleveland Hts., 216-932-3003. Besides providing breads for some of Cleveland’s top restaurants, The Stone Oven sells a variety of European artisanal loaves for at-home enjoyment. If the sight of all those golden-crusted beauties leaves you famished, treat yourself to a fat sandwich (on your choice of fresh-baked bread, of course), a colorful salad, homemade soup, or a giant piece of fragrant Sicilian-style veggie pizza. Counter service, with plenty of tables. $-$$

Sweet Melissa’s 19337 Detroit Rd., Rocky River, 440-333-6357. This sharp West Side café, set in the former Max’s Deli space, features an all-day menu of soups, salads, sandwiches, entrées and delectable desserts. Management endeavors to source local, sustainable and organic foodstuffs; soups, salad dressings and pastries are made fresh daily; sandwich bread comes from a nearby bakery. Bountiful salads, over-stuffed sandwiches and wallet-friendly entrees are this eatery’s stock in trade. The eastern outpost near John Carroll is full of the same delicious food and warm atmosphere. $$

Tea Lab 14534 Detroit Ave. Lakewood 216-712-4410. Bob Holcepl was so sure that tea was the next coffee that he opened up a loose-leaf tea shop in the heart of downtown. And this from the man who owns Civilization and City Roast Coffee! He went on to open this second shop to give himself even more room to focus on serving the needs of a growing tea-centric consumer. Buy loose tea, a hot cup of prepared tea, or any of the paraphernalia needed to brew up a perfect cup at home. $

This article appears in Nov 19-25, 2014.