Expert Riffing

Gastropub delights meet the blues at historic Brothers Lounge

Brothers started in 1959 as a place where guests could enjoy great ethnic food and their favorite local bluesmen playing in the corner. Through the years, a larger stage gave rise to Brothers' specialty in hosting national performers such as B.B. King, Buddy Guy, and our own Robert Lockwood Jr., along with Cleveland's top talent.

In 2005, Brothers unveiled a storefront renovation that restored the exterior of the building to its original 1911 look. The interior was completely gutted and a new floor plan developed, including the heritage-rich neighborhood pub and adjacent wine bar, and a much larger music hall.

As 2011 arrived, Brothers' commitment to great music and extraordinary food began to take shape. The new menu, launched in September by Executive Chef Michael Nadolski (formerly of the 5 Star Pavilion restaurant in Antigua) and Sous Chef Christian Schultz, reflects their various influences in the model of gastropub style, preparation, and presentation. All menu items are sourced locally when possible and prepared in-house from scratch.

Early returns from Brothers' regulars include accolades for the Pulled Pork Taco with jalapeno slaw and Cheddar Mac & Cheese with pulled pork and smoked apples. The New England Shrimp Roll — featuring breaded fried shrimp, jalapeno relish, and Creole tartar sauce — is an instant classic at Brothers' 11 a.m.-3 p.m. lunch.

The dinner experience starts with Brothers Bites, which include house-made chips, honey-rosemary roasted mixed nuts, and Brothers' signature Stuffed Cornbread (collard greens, bacon, and cheddar cheese in a deep fried cornmeal batter). Fans of lighter fare can enjoy the Brothers Cobb Salad, while vegetarians delight in Brothers' black bean veggie burger. Acclaimed sandwiches, steaks, and burgers round out the menu, giving way to an assortment of homemade desserts.

Whether you're enjoying a burger and frosty beer with a friend, sharing a bottle of wine with that special someone, requesting your favorite song from a scintillating bluesman, or watching a 7-piece band bring down the house, count on Brothers Lounge to deliver an experience to remember.