30 Hard-to-Get Restaurant Tables in Cleveland That Are Totally Worth the Wait

Marble Room

623 Euclid Ave., Cleveland

Marble Room Steaks and Raw Bar is unbelievably fancy in a great downtown location. They do take reservations, and you’re likely going to need to book in advance if you want to sweep someone off their feet at this romantic spot on a weekend.

Johnny Mango World Cafe and Bar

3120 Bridge Ave., Cleveland
Johnny Mango is incredibly popular, largely because they really have something for everyone. With flavors inspired by Mexico, Asia and the Caribbean and stuffed with meatless and vegan options, they’re set-up to cater to anyone in town. However, their space unfortunately doesn’t accommodate all of Cleveland, so be prepared to plan ahead to nab a seat at the World Cafe.

Fat Cats

2061 West 10th St., Cleveland

This cool Tremont spot is in a converted house that includes a lava lounge. Their dinner options are fancy takes on classic comfort food, which matches their sleek atmosphere. Spots book up quickly, especially on weekends.

Edwin’s

13101 Shaker Square, Cleveland

Edwin’s is an upscale restaurant with fancy French cuisine, so it's definitely a great way to spend a few hours, but the best part of Edwin’s is its mission. The employees are almost exclusively formerly incarcerated, and the restaurant now has a companion butcher shop with the same mission. Grab a reservation before you go, and know you’re helping a great cause.

Boiling Seafood Crawfish

2201 Lee Rd., Cleveland Heights

This incredibly popular Heights eatery takes advantage of a trend notably prominent in New England with a Creole twist. The experience is a pretty all-encompassing one. Sure, they offer classic Cajun delights like po’ boys and etouffee, but you should really order an “experience,” where boil-in-bag seafood is served by the pound and you get the joy of cracking open your meal along with the gorgeous flavors.

Johnny’s Little Bar

614 Frankfort Ave., Cleveland
This hidden gem is operated by the owners of Johnny’s Downtown restaurant, but with a different, much more low-key vibe. It's a small space, so it fills up quickly. The bar is known for its hamburgers, which are made from meat culled from cuts used at the restaurant and never include cheese.

Molto Bene

18401 Detroit Ave., Lakewood

Molto Bene has some great non-pizza Italian options, a rarity (yes, of course they also have pizza, and yes, of course it's delicious). The fabulous dishes and gorgeous space make this space worth calling ahead for, so be sure to check it out when you’re feeling fancy.

The Pompadour

320 High St., Fairport Harbor

The Pompadour is a ways away, but absolutely worth the trip and the scheduling. Be sure to call ahead, and take in the great views and scrumptious tapas.

Rising Grill Korean BBQ

3709 Payne Ave., Cleveland

Rising Grill opened to rave reviews recently, so they’re often packed, but Korean barbeque is a rarity locally and Rising Grill absolutely delivers. The premise, if you’re not familiar, is grilling your own meat at your table, and customize your meal.

Salt

17652 Detroit Ave., Lakewood
Salt’s Chef Jill Vedaa is a James Beard semi-finalist this year, and a deserving candidate for the coveted cooking prize. Salt absolutely lives up to the prestige. The bad news? You’re definitely going to need to call ahead and make a reservation, especially on weekends.