Any examination of our restaurant scene isn't complete without recognizing our rich history and tradition of Black-owned bars and restaurants in the region. And there are plenty of places dishing up amazing food these days that you should have checked out by now.
When Habesha opened in early December of 2020, the number of Ethiopian restaurants in Cleveland increased to three and will be the only such eatery on the West Side. Habesha joins the long-standing Empress Taytu on St. Clair and Zoma in Cleveland Heights. Sadly, Lucy Ethiopian restaurant on Broadview Road has closed. Fans of Ethiopian cuisine will discover a tempting assortment of combination plates that offer various pairings of vegetarian and/or meat-based items.
21921 Miles Rd., North Randall and 23840 Broadway Ave., Oakwood Village
Beckham’s B&M has been in the Beckham family since 1958, when Eddie Beckham from Georgia teamed up with his wife from Virginia and partner James Mitchell decided to open a barbecue joint in the Hough area of Cleveland. Beckham’s son Greg and his wife Sonya still own the restaurant today, which expanded into four locations and a food truck. There are now two locations open.
Boasting some of the best, most creative sandwiches in town, this Legacy Village spot from Chef Eric Rogers has built up a very loyal following. Here’s a description of one of their sandwiches, so you know we’re not joking around: cajun Fried catfish and shrimp, smoked cheddar, bacon, arugula, tomato, red onion, pickles, creole remoulade. It’s as delicious and overstuffed as it sounds. Rogers also owns the bakery The Sweet Fix.
Most people believe that you have to travel to Philadelphia to get an authentic cheese steak. Forget Pat’s and Geno’s - Capo Steaks, in East Cleveland, has the real deal. They’re messy but don’t worry about that; the mess is definitely worth it.
This place is one of the most delicious soul food spots in Cleveland, and they deliver. The loaded potatoes, garlic parmesan wings and onion rings are some of the best items on the menu.
A quiet neighborhood bar located on the border of East Cleveland and Cleveland Heights, the Columbo Room is known for being more than just a local watering hole. The restaurant serves up excellent, juicy corned beef and really good fried fish.
