The term “hidden gem” gets tossed around so often these days that it is essentially meaningless. Rare is the restaurant that truly is both hidden and a gem. When it opened 16 years ago, the Grovewood Tavern was both of those things. Tucked deep in the residential neighborhood in Collinwood, the restaurant was exasperatingly difficult to find for diners who rarely had a reason to venture farther east than Cleveland Heights.
But travel they did, lured by chef-driven bistro fare in the unlikeliest of environs. Politely described as “gritty,” the well-worn tavern opened with linoleum floors, ‘70s-era wood paneling, cigarette smoke-stained ceilings, and an ancient bowling machine that took up considerable space in the dining room. Over the years, chefs like Mark A. Wilson, Tim Ogan, Brandon Kercher and John Bausone have enticed diners to make the drive for Grovewood classics like crab cakes, pot stickers, cold Japanese noodles in a sesame sauce, yakitori duck breast and chicken paprikash. The massive wine list was deep and broad, studded with affordable gems found nowhere else.
And the space perked up, too. The bowling machine was pulled out to make room for larger and larger crowds. Linen found its way onto tabletops.
All that ends today as owners Beth Davis-Noragon and Tadas Gelazis have announced the sudden and unexpected closure of the restaurant. Calls to management have been unreturned, but this message was posted on the restaurant’s Facebook page.
“A little over 16 years ago, with no fanfare or publicity, we opened a wine bar and tavern in a rustic-urban setting just north of what would much later be known later as the Waterloo Arts District. Our concept at the time was unique to Cleveland: to provide sophisticated food and wine service in a local, tavern setting. From our modest beginnings, we never lost sight of our focus: to bring great food, beverages, and above all, service, in a comfortable environment to people from all walks of life. We’ve helped you celebrate life’s milestones: anniversaries, weddings, engagements, and birthdays. We’ve supported causes large and small, and we thank you all for supporting us.
But, as the Grovewood grew, so, too, did the Cleveland food scene. Today, our original “gastropub” approach is ubiquitous. We are proud to have been on the forefront of so many at the time “cutting-edge” ideas that now are common enough to be part of the everyday vernacular of people who care about food. Local. Sustainable. Fresh. Hand-made. Craft. Pairing Dinners. Regrettably, as quietly as we entered Cleveland’s restaurant scene, we must now depart. It is with sadness that we announce our closing, effective immediately.”
Much has changed for the better in the local food scene over the past 16 years. But given the increase in great spots like Grovewood,
I know we speak for the entire Cleveland dining community when we say, “Thanks for the years of service, Grovewood. We will miss you.”
This article appears in Aug 5-11, 2015.
This is really sad news. I’ve been going to the Grovewood for years and was last there a month or so ago. With so many great restaurants in Cleveland I would only make it there a few times a year, but always had a great meal, drinks, and service there.
Truly sad. One of the quirkiest & most enjoyable places to eat in Cleveland. Cock-eyed charm galore. Sigh.
Nooooooooooooooooooooo!
And let’s not forget the facility was the original Slovene neighborhood bar and grill…”TELICH’S TAVERN” for 40 + years before Grovewood tavern and Wine Bar.
Such an awesome restaurant with GREAT FOOD, probably the best Ahi a Tuna I have ever had. Sadly, the menu changed and not for the better. Feedback from several long time diners was largely ignored. Thanks for so many delicious birthday dinners Grovewood, you will be missed!
This is a bummer. By far one of the mainstays in Cleveland, a must before Beachland Shows, one of the funnest wine programs in the city, great burgers and specials, familiar faces and a neighbourhood go to. For shame the the takeaway slice of pizza minimal take out concert folks. The Grovewood was a perceived value, vibrant ‘city’ environment, service was friendly informative and warm, and will be truly missed.A neighbourhood that has devolved and enveloped over the years, the Grovewood endured. I am pissed. Any strong servers come see us at Lopez we are here with open arms for the talent and city savvy you have nd share.. best to all. mojo
Grew up on Grovewood and surely have fond memories of so many good times at Telich’s and later at the Grovewood. Will miss all the great people there and the good times had.
Extremely sad. The new “executive chef” (John Bausone) has a history of killing his restaurants. It is sad for Beth and her entire Grovewood family, not to mention Collinwood and the city, that he ever came back to town. First the atmosphere changed from happy to disgruntled. Then long-time employees began to leave. Then, when the menue was changed, the customers followed. We loved the Grovewood. We loved Beth and Tadas. We loved the noodles! So very sorry to see it close. We hope all the best for you Beth!
Thank you for the memories- the Grovewood will be missed by many.
Oh no!!! The Grovewood was such a unique place with great food, wines to accompany & servers to accommodate ones needs quite nicely! We will miss this establishment:(
Never got there, as I’m on the opposite end of the city and not by any stretch a foodie…my tastes run more to old-school fare like Sokolowski’s in Tremont.
But it’s always sad when a good place goes under….and I send my condolences to the regular customers…and to those who served them.
Chuckles the Clown
Nooooo!! I have just discovered this amazing place. I was looking forward to my next visit. It was the MOST unforgettable restaurant and service. So very sad.